Cities and Towns in Clarendon County, South Carolina

Founded in 1855, Clarendon County is one of 46 counties in the state of South Carolina. Historically, Clarendon County was formed from Sumter. The city of Manning is the county seat. With FIPS code of 27, Clarendon County has a population of 31,024 and area of 696 square miles (1,803 km²).

List of all cities in Clarendon County, SC alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Alcolu, SC 29001 803
Bloomville, SC 29102 803
Davis Crossroads, SC 29148 803
Davis Station, SC 29041 803
Foreston, SC 29102 803
Gable, SC 29051 803
Goat Island Resort, SC 29148 803
Jordan, SC 29102 803
Manning, SC 29102 803
New Zion, SC 29111 843
Oak Dale, SC 29111 843
Paxville, SC 29102 803
Saint Paul, SC 29148 803
Sardinia, SC 29143 803
Summerton, SC 29148 803
Turbeville, SC 29162 843
Union Crossroads, SC 29111 843
Wilson, SC 29102 803
Workman, SC 29111 843

Major Cities and Towns in Clarendon County, South Carolina

Manning

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: Approximately 3.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,000 residents (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 29102
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.6982° N, 80.2106° W

Location and History

Manning, the county seat of Clarendon County, is centrally located and serves as the hub for local government and commerce. Established in 1855, it was named after South Carolina Governor John Lawrence Manning. Manning played a key role in the development of the county, particularly as an agricultural and trade center. Its historical downtown features buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting its long-standing role as a community centerpiece. The city endured significant damage during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, but it has since been revitalized and continues to grow as a small but vibrant community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Manning is home to Manning High School and Laurence Manning Academy, both prominent educational institutions. Major landmarks include the Clarendon County Courthouse, a historic structure that showcases early 20th-century architecture, and the Weldon Auditorium, which hosts a variety of cultural and community events. Visitors also enjoy access to nearby Lake Marion, a popular site for fishing and boating.

Summerton

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: Approximately 1.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,000 residents (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 29148
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.6054° N, 80.3537° W

Location and History

Summerton, located near the shores of Lake Marion, offers a picturesque setting and rich historical roots. Incorporated in 1889, it grew as a result of its proximity to the lake and surrounding farmland. Summerton is historically significant for its role in the Briggs v. Elliott case, one of the first steps in the fight against school segregation, which led to the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. The town retains its small-town charm with preserved historical buildings and welcoming residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Summerton is served by Clarendon Hall, a private K-12 school, and St. Paul Elementary. Key landmarks include the Briggs-DeLaine-Pearson House, a National Historic Landmark commemorating the desegregation case. Lake Marion provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and camping, drawing visitors from across the region.

Turbeville

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: Approximately 2.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 800 residents (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 29162
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.8896° N, 79.9789° W

Location and History

Turbeville, situated in the northeastern part of Clarendon County, is known as “The Crossroads of the Carolinas.” Established in the early 20th century by farmer and merchant W.J. Turbeville, the town developed rapidly due to its location at the intersection of several major roads. Turbeville’s history is deeply tied to agriculture, especially tobacco farming, which was once a major industry in the region. Today, it maintains its rural character while offering modern amenities to its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The town is home to East Clarendon Middle-High School, which serves as the educational center for the community. Notable landmarks include the historic Puddin Swamp area, a nod to the town’s agricultural roots, and the annual Puddin Swamp Festival, which celebrates local culture with music, food, and family activities. Turbeville Town Park also offers recreational facilities for residents and visitors.

Alcolu

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 500 residents (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 29001
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.7824° N, 80.2244° W

Location and History

Alcolu, located just north of Manning, was founded in 1885 as a mill town by D.W. Alderman to support his lumber company. The town’s name is derived from “AL” for Alderman, “CO” for Columbia, and “LU” for the lumber industry. Alcolu’s history is interwoven with its industrial roots, including sawmills and textiles. Today, it is a quiet residential community that retains its historical character, with several original mill houses and structures still standing.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alcolu is served by Manning Early Childhood Center and Manning Primary School. Landmarks include the historic Alderman’s Mill and the Alcolu Railroad Depot, which reflect the town’s industrial past. The area also features several historic churches and is a gateway to outdoor activities in the nearby Pocotaligo Swamp.