South Carolina’s history is deeply intertwined with the founding of America, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War. It was the first state to secede from the Union in 1860, setting the stage for the nation’s most defining conflict. Battles such as those in Camden and Cowpens played crucial roles in securing American independence, while Charleston’s Fort Sumter became the symbolic starting point of the Civil War. The state’s rich past is preserved in sites like the historic district of Beaufort, the colonial ruins of Dorchester, and the plantations that line the Lowcountry’s waterways. On top of its famous landmarks, South Carolina is home to historic towns that have retained their charm, each offering a unique glimpse into the past. From Revolutionary War battlegrounds to antebellum homes and cultural touchstones like the birthplace of jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie, these towns invite visitors to journey back in time and explore the tales that have influenced the Palmetto State.
1. Beaufort
Founded in 1711, Beaufort is South Carolina’s second-oldest city, nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry. Its rich history is evident in the well-preserved antebellum architecture and storied past. As visitors walk through the Historic District, they can appreciate the Federal, neoclassical, and Greek Revival styles that define the city’s character.
A must-visit is the John Mark Verdier House, a Federal-style mansion offering insights into 19th-century Southern life. Another significant site is the Beaufort National Cemetery, established in 1863, where Union and Confederate soldiers rest, reflecting the area’s Civil War history. The Parish Church of St. Helena, founded in 1712, stands as one of the nation’s oldest active churches, its graveyard telling tales of centuries past.
Spring and fall are ideal times to visit, offering mild temperatures perfect for exploring outdoor attractions. The Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park provides serene views of the Beaufort River, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Hunting Island State Park boasts unspoiled beaches and the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the Atlantic.
2. Georgetown
Georgetown is one of the state’s oldest towns, founded in 1729. It sits along Winyah Bay, where four rivers meet, and has played a crucial role in South Carolina’s history, from its days as a major rice port to its connections to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Today, its well-preserved historic district offers a look into the past with colonial-era homes, waterfront views, and a strong sense of heritage.
The town is known for sites like Hopsewee Plantation, a former rice plantation built before the American Revolution. The Kaminski House Museum offers a look at 18th- and 19th-century Southern life, while the Georgetown County Museum tells the broader story of the region’s history.
3. Pendleton
Pendleton, established in 1790, serves as a testament to the state’s rich history. This town, with a population of approximately 3,489 as of the 2020 census, is renowned for its well-preserved historic district, which is among the largest in the nation.
The town’s layout has remained largely unchanged since its inception, with the village green continuing to be the focal point. Strolling through Pendleton, visitors can admire streets lined with dogwoods and shaded by massive cedars and oaks, reflecting the town’s longstanding commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
Pendleton’s charm is further enhanced by its collection of historic buildings, many dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Notable sites include the Farmer’s Hall and Hunter’s Store, both situated on the town square. Nearby, the historic plantation homes Ashtabula and Woodburn offer deeper insights into the region’s past.
The town also boasts the Pendleton Historic District, encompassing over 6,300 acres and featuring more than 50 buildings of historical significance. This district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, underscoring Pendleton’s dedication to preserving its rich heritage.
For those interested in African American history, Pendleton offers a profound legacy. As early as the 1880s, the literacy rate within the black community was 54%, second only to Easley, SC. Early schooling was tied to local churches, highlighting the community’s commitment to education and advancement.
4. Abbeville
This Town, established in 1758 by French Huguenots, is often referred to as the “Birthplace and Deathbed of the Confederacy.” Abbeville played pivotal roles at both the onset and conclusion of the Civil War.
A visit to Abbeville offers a journey through time. The Burt-Stark Mansion, built in the 1830s, is a significant historical landmark where Confederate President Jefferson Davis held his final war council, effectively marking the end of the Confederacy.
The Abbeville Opera House, South Carolina’s official state theatre, has been a cultural hub since 1908, showcasing performances that reflect the town’s rich artistic heritage.
For those interested in African American history, the Harbison College President’s House stands as a testament to the educational advancements made during the Reconstruction era.
5. Camden
Established in 1733, Camden holds the distinction of being the state’s oldest inland city. Originally known as Pine Tree Hill, it was later renamed in honor of Charles Pratt, Lord Camden, a British advocate of colonial rights. The city played a pivotal role during the American Revolution, serving as a strategic British outpost and witnessing significant battles such as the Battle of Camden and the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill.
Today, visitors to Camden can explore its rich history through various preserved sites. The Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site, a 107-acre outdoor museum, offers insights into colonial and Revolutionary War periods with structures like the reconstructed Kershaw-Cornwallis House, which served as British headquarters during the occupation. Another notable landmark is the Robert Mills Courthouse, designed in 1825 by Robert Mills, America’s first professionally trained architect, who also designed the Washington Monument, one of the must-see monuments in DC.
Camden’s historical significance is further highlighted by the Old Quaker Cemetery, established in 1759, where notable figures, including Confederate generals and Medal of Honor recipients, are interred. Additionally, the city is renowned for its equestrian heritage, hosting events like the Carolina Cup Steeplechase, attracting enthusiasts from across the nation.
For those interested in African American history, the Bonds Conway House, home to Camden’s first African American licensed contractor, offers a glimpse into post-Civil War life and contributions of African Americans in the region.
6. Edgefield
Edgefield, established in the late 18th century, is known as the “Home of Ten Governors.” It has been the birthplace of numerous state leaders. Beyond its political legacy, Edgefield’s past is marked by tales of violence and scandal. Notably, the town was home to Becky Cotton, infamously dubbed the “Devil in Petticoats,” who was accused of murdering her husband in the early 19th century.
The town’s historic district offers a glimpse into its storied past, featuring landmarks such as the Edgefield County Courthouse, a contributing property to the Edgefield Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Another notable site is the Edgefield County Historical Society, which operates three museums: the Joanne T. Rainsford Discovery Center, Magnolia Dale House Museum, and Horn’s Creek Church Museum.
Edgefield’s history is further enriched by its association with the Red Shirt Campaign of 1876, a movement that played a significant role in the state’s political realignment during the Reconstruction era.
7. Cheraw
The origins of Cheraw trace back to a trading post at the head of navigation on the Great Pee Dee River, making it a natural center of commerce. The town was established around 1740, and during the Revolutionary War, it was a strategic location, occupied by both British and American forces. St. David’s Church, built in 1768, served as a hospital for troops from both sides.
In the Civil War, Cheraw became a refuge and storage site for valuables, including Confederate gold. In March 1865, General William T. Sherman occupied the town, noting its pleasant and aristocratic bearing.
Today, Cheraw’s historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, spans approximately 35 blocks, showcasing antebellum homes, churches, and commercial buildings.
Notable sites include the Town Hall, First Presbyterian Church, and the Robert Smalls School. The town is also the birthplace of jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie, commemorated by a statue in the downtown area.
Cheraw State Park, established in the 1930s, offers recreational opportunities and is significant as the first state park in South Carolina developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
8. Walterboro
Walterboro, established in 1783, began as a summer haven for rice planters seeking respite from the Lowcountry’s malarial swamps. Brothers Paul and Jacob Walter were among the early settlers, lending their name to the burgeoning town.
The town’s historic district, encompassing a variety of architectural styles from the early 19th to mid-20th centuries, reflects its evolution over time. Notable structures include the Old Water Tower, built around 1915, which stands 133 feet tall and once featured jail cells at its base for stranded travelers.
During World War II, Walterboro Army Airfield served as a training ground for over 500 Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military aviators in the US Army Air Corps. A monument at the site honors their legacy.
Today, Walterboro is known for its antique shops and the South Carolina Artisans Center, showcasing the state’s folk art and crafts. The nearby ACE Basin, one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the East Coast, offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation.
9. Summerville
Affectionately known as the “Birthplace of Sweet Tea,” Summerville was established in the late 1700s and began as a refuge for Lowcountry planters seeking respite from the summer heat and mosquitoes. By 1847, it had grown into an official town renowned for its verdant pine forests and temperate climate.
The town’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its early ordinances; in 1847, Summerville enacted one of the nation’s first laws protecting trees, imposing fines on those who cut them down without permission. This reverence for nature has earned Summerville the nickname “Flowertown in the Pines,” celebrated annually during the Flowertown Festival, which showcases the town’s blooming azaleas and vibrant community spirit.
Summerville’s historic district, encompassing approximately 700 buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A leisurely stroll through its streets reveals a tapestry of architectural styles, from Victorian-era homes to charming cottages, each narrating tales of the town’s rich past. Notable landmarks include the Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, where visitors can explore the remnants of a pre-Revolutionary town, and the Old White Meeting House Ruins and Cemetery, offering a poignant glimpse into early American religious life.
Beyond its historical allure, Summerville’s claim as the “Birthplace of Sweet Tea” adds a flavorful note to its identity. This quintessential Southern beverage symbolizes the town’s warm hospitality and cultural heritage, inviting visitors to savor a glass while basking in the serene ambiance of its tree-lined streets.
10. York
York is known as the “White Rose City.” The region’s earliest inhabitants were the Catawba Indians, who roamed its verdant landscapes over 500 years ago. European settlers, primarily Scots-Irish Presbyterians migrating from Pennsylvania and Virginia, began arriving in the early 1750s, drawn by the fertile lands and strategic location.
The town’s origins trace back to Fergus’s Crossroads, named after a tavern owned by brothers William and John Fergus. This strategic intersection became the county seat when York County was established in 1785. By 1841, the town was officially incorporated as Yorkville, later shortened to York in 1915.
One of York’s most significant historical landmarks is the McCelvey Center, which houses the Historical Center of York County. This center serves as a repository for the county’s rich archival records, preserving documents that chronicle the area’s evolution from its early days to the present.
Another notable site is the Historic Brattonsville, a 778-acre living history museum that offers insights into the region’s Revolutionary War era. Visitors can explore the Bratton Plantation, owned by the Bratton family for three generations, and witness reenactments of significant battles, such as Huck’s Defeat.
York’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in its well-maintained historic district, which features a plethora of 19th-century architecture. Walking tours, such as the “White Rose Tour” offered by the Yorkville Historical Society, provide residents and visitors alike with a glimpse into the town’s storied past, highlighting landmarks and sharing tales that have shaped the community.
