South Carolina is a history lover's dream. Our gorgeous state maintains evidence of early human ingenuity, dating back nearly 40,000 years via tools used by Pre-Clovis peoples. While much of our state's very early history is going to remain a mystery due to lack of written records, there is one thing we know tons about: the recent past, starting with the Colonial period. Why is this? In addition to written accounts of people that lived in the area, we also have South Carolina State Historic Sites that offer a glimpse into the past. The most magnificent is Colonial Dorchester, and it's a site you have to see to believe. Check it out:

In 1676, the Earl of Shaftsbury granted nearly 2,000 acres to newly immigrated Carolina residents John and Mary Smith.

The Smiths moved from England to North Carolina, and John would pass within the decade. Upon his death, Mary took the hand of Arthur Middleton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. As you travel along Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, you'll stumble upon all sorts of interesting history like this. Some of it parallels American history, and some of it is uniquely South Carolina.

After the earliest settlers at Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site were gone, this site (plus the surrounding 2,250 acres) was purchased by a parish.

Reverend Joseph Lord, originally of Massachusetts, brought his parishioners to South Carolina to create a new settlement. By 1696 the Reverend had chosen the spot for what would become the Parish Church of St. George, and he preached his first sermon there. Upon completion of the church, settlers came from all over to make Dorchester their home. While the church itself is gone today, the St. George Bell Tower and the church's graveyard are still visible.

The location of the town off of roads leading into Charleston proved to be advantageous, and as the town became a coveted trading site, the colonists also established it as a military site.

In fear of the impending threat of the French and Indian War, locals established Dorchester as a military stronghold. They established an oyster-shell tabby fort and a magazine in Dorchester. The day of that invasion never came, but the military site wouldn't go to waste. It was eventually used in the American Revolution!

Following the American Revolution, Dorchester quietly fell into disrepair. Its residents relocated to nearby Summerville and even used bricks and resources from Dorchester to build their new town.

As a result of this sudden abandonment, Dorchester stood frozen in time... a time capsule that hearkened back to colonial days. Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site was donated to the state parks in 1969, and the town was found to be well preserved though centuries had passed. The old Dorchester fort was found to be one of the most remarkable preserved oyster-shell tabby forts in the entire nation, and this is just one of many surprises hiding in the 325 acres of this site.

Some features at the park appear surprisingly modern...

Archaeologists continue to unearth evidence of colonial day-to-day at this site, but some of the most amazing features are those that have stood the test of time exposed to the elements.

...And others reveal the true age of this historic site.

This weathered headstone may be hard to read, but that's because it dates back to 1798. It marks the passing of someone on the 65th year, eighth month, and 16th day of their life.

Today, the Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site is perhaps the best-preserved glimpse into pre-Revolution South Carolina.

As you walk around this gorgeous historic site, you'll spot log shipping wharf remains, historical reenactments, active archaeological expeditions, and so much more. Plus, nature abounds at this site... so keep your eyes peeled for alligators!

All in all, this is one site that's well worth visiting.

This historic site open to the public daily at 9 a.m., and there is just a small admission fee ($3 for adults, $1.50 for seniors, and $1 for children). Visit the South Carolina State Parks website to plan your trip.

Colonial Dorchester is arguably the most magnificent of the South Carolina State Historic Sites. Have you ever visited this splendid place? Share your memories and favorite photos in the comments!

If you love local history, you'll sure love to learn about things archaeologists have discovered in our area.