The Gripping Story Of How This South Carolina Ghost Town Died Is Heartbreaking But True
South Carolina’s second oldest settlement (Beaufort) was established in 1711 and has grown to become one of the most beloved places to visit (and live!) in the Palmetto State. But Beaufort had a neighboring town (now a ghost town) that didn’t fare as well.
In 1732, the first Swiss and German immigrants began to arrive in a new settlement along the eastern bank of the Savannah River. It was called Purrysburg (a.k.a. Purrysburgh). But their fate was likely sealed before they arrived.
Soon after, in 1726, he began advertising free passage (as promised by The Lords Proprietors) to anyone willing to immigrate to America. But after 200 people signed up for the adventure, The Lords Proprietors took back their promise to pay for passage. The volunteers were left without hope. Yet, Purry relentlessly moved forward.
However, there were many things working against this mix of Swiss and German immigrants.
The immigrants began to suffer a great hunger.
Entire families were likely wiped out by the unforeseen illness that affected so many. Eventually, the entire town was abandoned. Many moved to areas where they could have more productive farming efforts.
At one point, Purrysburg is said to have had a post office of sorts. Today, all that remains of the original site is the Old Purrysburg Cemetery. It's dissected by State Road 27-34, a.k.a. Purrysburg Road, which cuts a line directly through the middle of the two burial grounds.
For a more favorable tale of a dying town in South Carolina, check out this ghost town that just refuses to die.
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