9 Oldest Towns in South Carolina That Are Full of History

There's no doubt about the allure history has to most South Carolinians and visitors to our state. The modern-day history of South Carolina dates all the way back to the first European settlers to arrive here in the 1600s. There are few resources available that have documented a timeline for settlements in what would become South Carolina. But we've pieced together this list of existing villages, towns, and what would become cities, that were established beginning under the proprietor's rule and forward. They're steeped in rich history. Take a look.

9. Moncks Corner: The Capital of Santee Cooper Country

First settled in the 1600s by refugee French Protestant Huguenots, this town was eventually named after a local land baron, Thomas Monck. Believe it or not, in 1999, Moncks Corner trademarked the moniker, "Capital of Santee Cooper Country." The nickname is more about the abundant outdoor activities in the area than it is about the presence of Santee Cooper in the area. It's a beautiful little town filled with history and stunning scenery. Be sure to stop by the Biggin Church ruins, Mepkin Abbey, or the gorgeous Cypress Gardens if you're ever in the area.

8. Cheraw: The Prettiest Town in Dixie

St. David's Church in Cheraw was built in the 1770s under the rule of King George III. During the Civil War, it was used by both the Union and Confederate armies as a hospital. By 1830, most of the streets in the "prettiest town in Dixie" had been planted with three rows of Elm trees. Most were removed in the 1900s to lay water lines, but Third Street still boasts this format. It's absolutely stunning. Cheraw also happens to be home to South Carolina's first state park, Cheraw State Park, dating back to 1934.

7. Ninety Six: It's Revolutionary!

Does anyone really know for sure how the town of Ninety Six got its name? Some speculate it was 96 miles from the nearest Cherokee outpost, but others will argue that's not the real story. What do you think?

The first land battle of the American Revolutionary War south of New England was fought in Ninety Six in November of 1775. Some 200 years later, Congress established the Ninety Six National Historic Site, where visitors can experience a hands-on reenactment of the historic battle or hike among Revolutionary War landmarks.

6. Kingstree: The Crown of the Black River

Francis Marion, a.k.a. the Swamp Fox, defeated the British at the Battle of Lower Bridge near here. However, a super interesting fact about the history of Kingstree is when the name got changed from Williamsburg (now the name of the county seat) to The King's Tree due to a very tall white pine on the edge of the establishment that was "claimed" on behalf of the King. Tall white pines were used for ship masts and this one was unusually tall. Thus, Williamsburg became known as "The King's Tree," and now just "Kingstree."

5. Camden: Classically Carolina

Established in 1732, Camden is South Carolina's oldest "inland" town. It was the main inland trade center for Carolina in the 1700s. Today, it's filled with historic sites, charming shops, and other draws, including the National Steeplechase Museum. It's known to many as "the Steeplechase Capital of the World," standing as the home of the historic Springdale Race Course, which was built in 1928. The annual Carolina Cup has been hosted here since 1930, solidifying this location as one famous for equestrian sports.

4. Georgetown: Officially the State's 3rd Oldest City

The town of Georgetown was formed in 1729, and in 1732, Georgetown opened the port, giving traders a second point of commerce. (Charleston was the first.) When staying in this historic town, be sure to check out some of its prominent historic landmarks, like the colonial-era Prince George Winyah Parish Church and the Rice Museum.

3. Beaufort: Beautiful Bountiful Beaufort

Officially the second-oldest town in South Carolina, Beaufort is loaded with history, having been established in 1711. Fort Fremont in Beaufort is one of only two well-preserved coastal fortifications from the Spanish-American War era. This stunning city is rich in history and definitely worth a visit or a day trip.

2. Mount Pleasant: Come on Over!

Who would have guessed that one of the fastest-growing areas in South Carolina was also one of the oldest? Established under the leadership of Captain Florentia O'Sullivan from England in 1680, the town was first known as "North Point" and was only accessible from Charles Towne by way of a ferry until the first Cooper River Bridge was built in 1929.

1. Charleston: The Holy City

No history lover's trip to South Carolina is complete without a visit to the state's oldest town. Established in 1670, the original settlement of Charles Towne was actually a few miles from its present-day location. Later, the town just up and moved from what is now Charles Towne Landing to the peninsula. And in 1783, the name was altered to Charleston. A 17th-century model of the type of boat that landed here in 1670 is docked at Charles Towne Landing, the original site of the first established colony in South Carolina.

If you're a history buff, you must love living in the Palmetto State. So many of the towns and cities here in South Carolina are jam-packed with historical buildings and events. Have you visited each of these oldest towns in South Carolina yet? Perhaps we've inspired you to check some out. For some extra help planning your next trip, use Only In Your State's itinerary planner to build out your upcoming adventures with plenty of exciting stops.