Being one of the thirteen colonies that first formed the United States, South Carolina is teeming with history … and small towns that have played crucial roles in the history of our state. Now, the term "small town" is often used for towns that don’t technically fit the definition of a small town set by the U.S. Census Bureau of an incorporated area with 5,000 or fewer residents. Most of this list of small towns that define South Carolina falls within those parameters.
McClellanville is part of a greater area that was first known as the St. James-Santee Parish region, first settled as early as 1685 primarily by French Huguenots. It was the first parish organized outside of Charles Town, now known as Charleston, where the first successful South Carolina settlement ended up after moving from Albemarle Point on the Ashley River. Thomas Lynch III, one of the Declaration of Independence signers, lived in the mansion at Hampton Plantation where rice was cultivated from the colonial period through the end of the Civil War. It was also a place where planters in the area would come to enjoy cooler coastal breezes. Charming oak-lined streets are characteristic of McClellanville today. Visit The Village Museum's Facebook page to learn much more about McClellanville's place in South Carolina history.
Settled in the early 1700s by families of rice planters who owned plantations on the nearby rivers, Pawley’s Island was a retreat away from the river area for "mosquito season." It still serves as a retreat for those looking for a more carefree, laid-back pace of life. The Pawley’s Island Chapel was built in 1947, has served different purposes through the years, has survived hurricanes, and has been remodeled, leveled, and rebuilt.
Captain Florence O'Sullivan, a former Irish soldier and one of South Carolina’s first colonists, was stationed as a lookout on Sullivan’s Island in the 17th Century, which was just the beginning of the island's importance for the military. A quarantine station was built in 1707 and served as the primary line of defense against infectious disease via newly arriving immigrants in Charleston, primarily African slaves. The island also became the site of a major Revolutionary War battle, The Battle of Sullivan's Island, and was involved in the first shots of the American Civil War.
In 1740 after Cheraw Indians abandoned the area, Cheraw was established as a trading village. Its location at the head of navigation on the Great Pee Dee River made it an important point of trade. It also served an important purpose during the Revolutionary War, used by the British as a strategic line of defense. It played a role in South Carolina’s secession and then was a haven for refugees during the Civil War. The Old St. David’s Church was built in 1774 and was used as a British hospital during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Many soldiers are buried in the cemetery surrounding the church. As of the 2020 census, Cheraw had just surpassed the 5,000-person small-town maximum population mark.
Rockville was established in 1784, although initial settlements were much sooner, and is located on the southern end of Wadmalaw Island. This area was a summer escape for Southern planters and has become important to the tea industry and southern sweet tea tradition, with 127 acres devoted to growing tea plants for American Classic Tea. In addition, the first sailing regatta was held by planters in 1890 in Rockville, a tradition that has lived on ever since. It is the oldest continually held regatta in North America, having celebrated its 130th year in 2020. Hosted by the Sea Island Yacht Club the first weekend in August each year, it is a private event.
Established in 1785 by settlers interested in its agricultural potential, Chesterfield was where the first secession meeting in South Carolina was held in 1860 at the courthouse, leading up to the Civil War. Sadly, the area paid dearly for this when General William T. Sherman occupied the town and burned its public buildings, including the courthouse. The building pictured in the center is the structure that replaced it. That prior building had been designed by the architect who drew the plans for the Washington Monument. Today, it houses the Visitor's Center, the Chamber of Commerce, a gift shop, a museum, an art gallery, the Genealogical Society, First Steps, and a conference room. Although Chesterfield is one of the poorest regions in the country, its community remains rich in historic resources, which it works to preserve and help revitalize the downtown area.
Edgefield’s location gave it a unique place in South Carolina’s history, as a part of the Great Wagon Road that brought settlers through from the North, while the Federal Road took travelers into the West. The town is also known as "The Home of Ten Governors," with nine governors in the 1800s having ties to Edgefield and J. Strom Thurmond from 1947-1951. One of those governors served two terms, hence, "ten governors." If you want to raise a leader, perhaps consider living in Edgefield!
Settlers came to the area in 1833 due to an abundant supply of drinking water and transportation. Being one day’s journey by train between Charles Town and Hamburg, Blackville became the overnight stop for the railway, which gave the town a train depot. When the depot was no longer needed for transportation purposes, it was moved and restored to serve as the community library, so beautiful it looks like it's straight out of a book lover's dream. The area thrived as a marketing and transportation hub until the Civil War when, much like Chesterfield, a lot of the town was burned down by General Sherman. Many of the former slaves remained in the area after the war and began a system of farming known as "sharecropping." The agricultural industry flourished and Blackville was at one time called the "cucumber capital of the world." In recent years, Mennonite settlers moved from western states and have contributed to the community with crafts, delicious food, and from their strong faith.
William Burkhalter Dorn came to the area in 1857 searching for gold. The settlement was known as "Dorn Gold Mines" but eventually became present-day McCormick. As a secessionist, Dorn outfitted an entire Confederate Army Unit and volunteered many of his slaves to work on coastal fortifications. It’s said he did this at his own expense, leaving him with few funds after the war. A Chicago financier invested in the Dorn Mines in 1867 and bought them in 1871. He then purchased railroad stock, the Savannah Valley Railroad, and the railroad terminal site in McCormick. This brought prosperity to McCormick with increased commerce and an outlet for farmers to export cotton and poultry. The gold mines became unprofitable in 1883, but the town holds an annual festival, the McCormick Gold Rush Festival to celebrate this part of the town’s history. You can also pan for gold at its Heritage Gold Mine Park.
With roughly three-fourths of the state comprised of small towns, this is certainly not an exhaustive list of all of our significant charming small towns. Are there any that you feel should have been included? Please share with us in the comments and be sure to mention why our state wouldn’t be the same without it!
If you only have one day to visit Orangeburg, South Carolina, you’re in for a treat. This charming small town is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway. The city of Orangeburg was named after William IV, Prince of Orange, who was married to Princess Anne, the daughter of King George II of England. But today, Orangeburg is known for being home to two historically Black colleges, Claflin University, a liberal arts college, and South Carolina State University, a public university.
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Beyond visiting these two campuses, here is everything you absolutely can’t miss during your visit.
A street corner showcases historic buildings with intricate architectural details and vibrant colors, surrounded by palm trees and greenery. The brick sidewalks and streetlights add a quaint charm to the serene town atmosphere.Memorial Plaza Orangeburg, SCPhoto taken on May 10, 2024
Start your day at the South Carolina Civil Rights Museum, where you can delve into the town’s vibrant history through fascinating exhibits that showcase local art, artifacts, and stories. Through powerful exhibits, photographs, and artifacts, the museum honors the struggle for equality and justice while educating visitors about South Carolina’s role in the movement.
Next, head to Edisto Memorial Gardens, a stunning escape featuring beautiful azaleas, camellias, and a picturesque view of the Edisto River. The gardens also have walking paths and a lovely gazebo, perfect for a peaceful stroll or reflection. With over 4,800 rose plants within, this is the place to be to see some of the best blooms in town.
A quiet street is lined with parked cars and vibrant green trees, framing a picturesque small-town scene. Colorful storefronts and a cloudy sky add charm and character to the tranquil setting.Russell Street Orangeburg, SCPhoto taken on May 10, 2024
After enjoying the gardens, make your way to downtown Orangeburg, where you’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants. Stop for lunch at one of the local eateries, such as Squeaky's Grill, known for its hearty Southern fare. Don't miss trying the fried chicken or a classic Southern BBQ sandwich—both are local favorites. It's comfortable, casual, and just good food.
As the sun begins to set, return to downtown Orangeburg to unwind at a local café or grab a sweet treat Whipped Sweets & Treats on Rodriguez Street. If you really want to indulge in a classic, the banana split is one of the most popular items.
A row of old-fashioned storefronts with a mix of green and beige facades line a quiet street. The buildings display a vintage charm with decorative elements and awnings, and a single bush adds a touch of greenery.Russell Street Orangeburg, SCPhoto taken on May 10, 2024
With its blend of history, nature, and Southern charm, Orangeburg offers a delightful experience for any visitor. Make the most of your one-day adventure by exploring these must-see attractions that showcase the best of this underrated gem in South Carolina.
Want to explore Orangeburg, SC soon? Check out these South Carolina hotels and start planning your trip today!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
