The history of South Carolina is equal parts interesting and expansive. One of the oldest colonies in South Carolina dates back to 1670, but they were not the first to settle here. We have discovered archaeological sites in South Carolina that have dated back farther than you could imagine. In fact, it’s quite amazing what secrets South Carolina holds. Here are 9 things that archaeologists have discovered that prove just how intriguing ancient South Carolina really is.

1. In a Columbia, SC, backyard...

Two archaeologists found a treasure trove of a time gone by. What started out as research turned into a whole lot more. After 2.5 years of digging Jakob Crockett and his assistant, Joseph Johnson, found 60,000 artifacts that chronicle the lives of one African-American family, making for one of the most intriguing archaeological sites in South Carolina.

2. Colonial Dorchester

It is no secret that Colonial Dorchester was once a thriving colony until the Revolutionary War. However, archaeologists are still uncovering secrets. Not surprisingly, it's now one of the most popular ghost towns in South Carolina, attracting history buffs and the curious alike.

3. Charles Towne Landing

Believe it or not, this specific place covers 664 acres of what was the first permanent settlement of South Carolina, making it the oldest place in the state and a great spot to learn all about ancient South Carolina. It's a really nice place to visit for a day with the family. They have an exhibit hall, a natural habitat zoo, a replica tall ship, and ongoing excavations.

4. Pre-Columbian Stones or stone stellae

Stone stellae were not supposed to be here in South Carolina or any state for that matter before Columbia, but they were. The South Carolina Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology has studied two sites in the northwestern part of South Carolina in Abbeville and Pickens. According to Tommy Charles, the site in Abbeville consists of piles of stone and circular stone walls that surround hills. The Pickens site shows parallel fieldstone retaining walls leading up the side of the mountain. Although they say that more research is needed on these sites, they feel that these definitely pre-date colonization. For an in-depth look at these - and other - archaeological sites in South Carolina, the South Carolina Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology website is a great resource.

5. Chauga Mound and Village

Once located at the northern back of the Tugaloo River, but has now been covered by Lake Hartwell. Excavations showed that the mound and village were built by the South Appalachian Mississippian culture, but there's still much unknown about the mound and village, making it one of the most mysterious of all archaeological sites in South Carolina.

6. Shell Ring Sites

Numerous sites exist in the state, mostly on the barrier islands in South Carolina, that contain these curious rings. These shell rings are circles that were mostly made with oyster shells. Many believe they were made by the people of the village for made for games or ceremonial reasons. Some sites feature multiple rings.

7. Richard B. Russell Multiple Resource Area

There were many reservoirs built in the South during the 20th century. This led to an increased interest in an archeological investigation in the area. This particular site was documented showing human occupation from the Paleoindians all the way to Historic cultures. There were over 700 prehistoric and historic sites found here. Its historic significance isn't the area's only claim to fame, though. There's also the fact that it sits on the Savannah River, the longest river in South Carolina.

8. Topper Site, Allendale, SC

This is an exceptionally unique site and quite controversial among archaeologists. Some archaeologists believe that the artifacts found here predate the Clovis culture, who were previously thought to be the first inhabitants of North America, by more than 3,000 years. One piece that they have found dates 16,000 - 20,000 years before the Clovis culture. Currently, the site is managed by the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie. For more information, visit the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie website.

9. Native American Artifacts in Florence County: This short video shows the discoveries in Florence County and gives the local natives a platform to discuss what they would like to see happen in the future.

When most think of South Carolina's history they usually don’t think much further back than the colonization of the land by Europeans. We are now finding that the history of this land stretches much further back - and these archaeological sites in South Carolina serve as proof. So, did you know about the amazing artifacts unearthed in South Carolina? Ever visited any of the archaeological sites in South Carolina mentioned above? If so, which ones and what’d you think? Know of any other places to view South Carolina artifacts? Whatever you have to say, we want to hear it, so share your thoughts with us!

The discovery of these archaeological sites in South Carolina isn’t the only significant thing to happen in the Palmetto State. As we stated before, the state’s history is both lengthy and interesting, and to prove it, here are the seven most shocking events in South Carolina history.