9 Oldest Founded Small Towns in South Carolina to Visit in 2024
As one of the thirteen original colonies, South Carolina boasts a long and storied history stretching back centuries. Exploring some of its earliest established towns provides insight into the cultural roots and evolution of the Palmetto State. From colonial settlements along thriving inland waterways to coastal hamlets founded as ports and outposts, these communities have withstood the test of time while preserving historic charm and character. Venturing off well-traveled routes to such destinations rewards curious travelers with a visual tour through the colonial and antebellum eras.
Wandering quiet streets surrounded by well-preserved architecture, local museums, and monuments hint at South Carolina's role in shaping the formative years of the United States. Here are historic towns to visit in South Carolina for their cultural lessons and historical significance.
Georgetown
This tiny coastal community of Georgetown blends small-town charm with captivating history to guarantee travelers an easygoing vacation. Founded in 1729, it is South Carolina's third oldest town and became an official entry port three years after its founding. Naturally, it is chock-full of vintage sites to explore, promising enthusiasts an immersive trip down memory lane. Notable mentions include the Rice Museum, an 1830s Classical Revival style temple showcasing the evolution of rice farming. Furthermore, the Kaminski House Museum depicts Southern life in the 18th century in a well-preserved Georgian mansion with historical artifacts.
If you do not have enough time to explore all museums individually, you can stop by the Georgetown County Museum for a broad perspective of the town's past and the surrounding area. Finally, the South Carolina Maritime Museum is where guests go to discover the region's nautical heritage.
Camden
Camden's claim to fame is South Carolina's oldest inland city. Its storied beginnings date back to the 1730s, and its colorful heritage is well preserved across the multiple historical markers in the town. Prominent among these is the Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site. Spanning over 100 acres, this museum vividly portrays the colonial period, featuring a cluster of historic homes, fortifications, a blacksmith shop, and more. Elsewhere, the Camden Archives and Museum documents regional history with a complex collection of artifacts in a vintage building.
With so much history to soak in, guests should stop by the Camden Antiques Market for a charming reminder of their time in Camden. But when it is time to venture outdoors, it does not get better than the tranquil and lush setting of the Camden Riverfront Environmental Park.
Walterboro
Walterboro sits about 48 miles from Charleston and traces its founding back to 1783. It is an adorably small community with welcoming locals who make newcomers feel at home. Wandering the quiet downtown, guests will discover a rich mix of historical sites, galleries, and lovely nature areas. The Tuskegee Airmen Memorial is a vital landmark where visitors pay tribute to gallant airmen. Additionally, the Colleton County Museum familiarizes guests with the cultural and historical heritage of the region.
Aside from immersing themselves in history, tourists have a prime opportunity to meet townsfolk and experience their culture in real time at the Colleton Museum Farmer's Market Commercial Kitchen. Alternatively, they can get lost outdoors while exploring the beautiful Colleton State Park.
Orangeburg
A tiny community steeped in history, Orangeburg's beginnings go back to 1704 when George Sterling, an Indian trader, founded it. It has a fair share of historical markers for those curious about its heritage. You can start by visiting the Orangeburg County Historical Society to browse an assortment of artifacts chronicling the town's story. Although the I.P. Stanback Museum & Planetarium does not focus on human history, it is a fantastic facility to learn an interesting lesson about the science world.
Thanks to the Orangeburg County Fine Arts Center, art lovers have something to keep them engaged. Finally, those who find joy in exploring open spaces will be delighted by the laid-back environment of Edisto Memorial Gardens. Its 175-acre expanse presents the ideal escape from downtown crowds.
Beaufort
Besides its rich historical heritage, Beaufort is one of the most beautiful towns to visit in South Carolina and boasts a cozy coastal setting. The town, founded in 1711, hosts a charming downtown district with multiple antebellum mansions. Walking through the neighborhood is a surreal journey back to the bygone eras, with a treasure trove of sites and landmarks vividly depicting past civilizations. The Beaufort History Museum provides a broad look into Beaufort's past using a fine selection of archives, memorabilia, and relics. Guests who visit the Anchorage 1770 enjoy a slice of 18th-century Beaufort in a rustic inn overlooking the scenic Beaufort River.
The John Mark Verdier House offers an excellent example of antebellum architectural style, with a legacy dating back to 1804. While there is immense history to soak up in Beaufort, tourists will fancy getting on the open sea during a lazy boat excursion organized by Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.
Moncks Corner
Trademarked "Capital of Santee Cooper Country," Moncks Corner is a dreamy location for outdoor adventurers. It promises endless opportunities in the open, thanks to a rich network of nature spaces, including the 170-acre Cypress Gardens. While discovering the stunning outdoor scenery of Old Santee Canal Park, tourists will encounter a vintage gem constructed in the late 1900s. Meanwhile, the Berkeley Country Club invites golfing enthusiasts to test their skills on a delightful 18-hole golf course.
Moncks Corner is one of the oldest communities in the state, with a legacy dating back to the early 18th century. The Berkeley County Museum, home to a diverse mix of old photographs, vintage artifacts, and other memorabilia, gives a chance to learn about the town's captivating past.
Edgefield
Edgefield is nationally recognized for its rich heritage, which spans everything from politics and pottery to cotton production. The community invites newcomers to acclimatize to its past at the Edgefield County Historical Society. Stored inside the museum are various historical documents and artifacts sourced from the local community. The downtown district is conveniently walkable and delights tourists with charming restaurants, inviting them to sample fresh local dishes at Christine’s Farm to Fork.
After a wholesome meal, linking with friends and mingling with locals over a bottle of craft spirit at Carolina Moon Distillery sounds like the perfect follow-up activity. Lastly, those who like to spend time outside can enjoy golfing on the lovely grounds of Pine Ridge Country Club.
Cheraw
Home to the Northeastern Technical College, this quaint college town boasts a rich heritage that can be traced to the earlier half of the 1700s. The Cheraw Historic District was designated a national historic district with almost 40 historic structures sporting appealing old-world architecture. Strolling through the neighborhood lets you explore vintage sites like the Cheraw Lyceum Museum. This lovely 19th-century building stands out for its beautiful Greek Revival architectural style and offers a window to past eras.
Besides the historical experience, visitors will be intrigued to discover the numerous adventures awaiting them in the great outdoors. This is a credit to the sprawling Cheraw State Park, which hosts a wetland and woodland habitat ideal for camping and hiking. It also hosts a 300-acre lake for those who want to fish.
Bluffton
Travelers visit Bluffton for its charming coastal setting, tasty seafood cuisine, and overall small-town charm. Its Old Town district is a popular tourist spot displaying a rich mix of architecture, history, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit for newcomers to the town. Famous for its bustling art scene, guests have numerous opportunities to admire visual art pieces at establishments like Maye River Gallery and Pluff Mud Art. Also, the May River Theatre welcomes them for compelling live performances on stage.
Locals take pride in a strong sense of community and naturally make strangers feel at home. This endearing attitude is usually displayed at the Farmers Market of Bluffton, where local farmers and growers interact with potential buyers in a warm atmosphere.
Final Thought
Immersing in the history and heritage nurtured for centuries in these enduring small towns ensures a rich cultural education and a newfound appreciation for South Carolina's foundations. Each locale offers its own surprises uncovered along charming main streets and through interacting with proud community residents. Overall, exploring these historically rooted towns to visit in South Carolina makes for memorable getaways steeped in Southern traditions and panoramic perspectives on the formation of this beautiful state.
