Cities and Towns in Colleton County, South Carolina

Founded in 1800, Colleton County is one of 46 counties in the state of South Carolina. Historically, Colleton County was formed from Charleston. The city of Walterboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 29, Colleton County has a population of 38,462 and area of 1,133 square miles (2,934 km²).

List of all cities in Colleton County, SC alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Ashton, SC	29929	843
Canadys, SC	29433	843
Cottageville, SC	29435	843
Edisto, SC	29438	843
Edisto Beach, SC	29438	843
Edisto Island, SC	29438	843
Green Pond, SC	29446	843
Greenpond, SC	29446	843
Islandton, SC	29929	843
Jacksonboro, SC	29452	843
Lodge, SC	29082	843
Moselle, SC	29929	843
Ritter, SC	29488	843
Round O, SC	29474	843
Ruffin, SC	29475	843
Smoaks, SC	29481	843
Walterboro, SC	29488	843
Williams, SC	29493	843

Walterboro

Overview

• Area: Approximately 6.5 square miles
• Population: 5,398 (2010 census)
• ZIP Codes: 29488
• Latitude and Longitude: 32.9025° N, 80.6597° W

Location and History

Walterboro, the county seat of Colleton County, is situated about 48 miles west of Charleston. Founded in 1783 by brothers Paul and Jacob Walter, it began as a summer retreat for plantation owners seeking respite from malaria prevalent in the Lowcountry’s marshlands. The town’s elevated terrain, known as Hickory Valley, provided a healthier environment. In 1817, Walterboro was designated as the county seat, leading to the construction of a courthouse designed by renowned architect Robert Mills in 1821. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s spurred further growth, establishing Walterboro as a vital hub in the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Walterboro is home to several educational institutions, including Colleton County High School and the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie campus, offering higher education opportunities. Notable landmarks include the Walterboro Historic District, featuring antebellum homes and buildings, and the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial at the Lowcountry Regional Airport, honoring the African American pilots who trained there during World War II. The Colleton Museum and Farmers Market provides insights into local history and culture, while the South Carolina Artisans Center showcases traditional and contemporary crafts from artists across the state.

Cottageville

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.5 square miles
• Population: 762 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 29435
• Latitude and Longitude: 32.9382° N, 80.4815° W

Location and History

Cottageville is located in the northeastern part of Colleton County, along U.S. Highway 17A. The town’s origins date back to the early 19th century, serving as a modest agricultural community. Its name is believed to derive from the numerous small cottages that once dotted the area. Over time, Cottageville has maintained its rural charm, with agriculture remaining a significant aspect of its local economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Educational facilities in Cottageville include Cottageville Elementary School, serving the town’s younger residents. The town is also known for its proximity to natural attractions such as the Edisto River, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The surrounding countryside features several historic farms and homes, reflecting the area’s agricultural heritage.

Edisto Beach

Overview

• Area: Approximately 2.3 square miles
• Population: 414 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 29438
• Latitude and Longitude: 32.4821° N, 80.3226° W

Location and History

Edisto Beach is situated on Edisto Island, along the Atlantic coast, and is the southernmost town in Colleton County. Known for its unspoiled beaches and natural beauty, it has been a popular destination since the early 20th century. The town was incorporated in 1975, transitioning from Charleston County to Colleton County jurisdiction. Edisto Beach has preserved much of its natural environment, avoiding the extensive commercial development seen in other coastal areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

While Edisto Beach does not have its own schools, it is served by the Colleton County School District. Prominent landmarks include Edisto Beach State Park, offering trails, camping, and beach access, and the Edisto Island Serpentarium, showcasing local reptiles. The town is also near the Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve, featuring historic plantation ruins and diverse wildlife habitats.

Lodge

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.1 square miles
• Population: 95 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 29082
• Latitude and Longitude: 33.0521° N, 80.9532° W

Location and History

Lodge is a small town located in the northwestern part of Colleton County. Established in the late 19th century, it developed as a rural community centered around agriculture and timber industries. The town’s name is thought to originate from a local Masonic lodge that played a significant role in the community’s early social life. Despite its modest size, Lodge has maintained a close-knit community atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lodge does not have its own schools; students attend institutions within the Colleton County School District. The town is characterized by its rural landscapes, including farmland and forests. Nearby attractions include the Salkehatchie River, offering opportunities for fishing and boating, and several historic churches that reflect the town’s cultural heritage.

Smoaks

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles
• Population: 126 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 29481
• Latitude and Longitude: 33.0860° N, 80.8134° W