History of Berkeley County, South Carolina

Berkeley County, South Carolina, boasts a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. Established in 1882, the county was named after the Berkeley family, early colonial landowners. Situated in the Lowcountry region, Berkeley County has witnessed significant historical events, from Native American settlements to its role in the American Revolution and Civil War. Its strategic location along the Cooper River and proximity to Charleston contributed to its importance in the development of trade, agriculture, and military activity in the region. Today, the county offers a fascinating blend of historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.


Origins of Berkeley County

Native American and Early European Settlement

History of Berkeley County, South Carolina

Before European settlers arrived, the region that would become Berkeley County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, notably the Catawba and the Cherokee. These tribes lived off the land, utilizing the rich river systems like the Cooper River for fishing, hunting, and trading. The Catawba were known for their pottery and agricultural practices, while the Cherokee utilized the area’s vast forests for hunting and gathering.

The arrival of European settlers in the early 17th century, particularly the English, changed the landscape and culture of the area. By the 1670s, English settlers had begun to establish plantations along the rivers, relying on the fertile soil for crops such as rice, indigo, and tobacco. These settlers pushed Native American tribes further inland, diminishing their influence in the area. The arrival of African slaves during this period also had a lasting impact on the social, cultural, and economic development of the region.

The Formation of Berkeley County

Originally part of the larger Colleton County, Berkeley County was created in 1882 from parts of Charleston and Colleton counties. The county was named after the Berkeley family, who were prominent figures in colonial South Carolina. The Berkeley family was part of the group of English settlers who helped establish the Carolina Colony in the mid-1600s, and their legacy continues to influence the county’s identity.

The county seat, Moncks Corner, was established as a strategic location along the Cooper River. The town was named after the Monck family, who played an essential role in the region’s early settlement and development. Over time, Moncks Corner grew as a center of commerce, trade, and transportation in the Lowcountry, thanks to its access to major waterways and proximity to Charleston.


Key Historical Events

The American Revolution

Berkeley County played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. It was the site of several skirmishes and military actions, primarily due to its proximity to Charleston, the capital of South Carolina, which was a key strategic target for both British and American forces. The Battle of Moncks Corner in 1780, fought near the town of Moncks Corner, was a crucial event in the county’s history.

The battle was part of a larger campaign by the British to secure control of South Carolina, and it was fought between British Loyalists and American Patriots. Although the British forces won the engagement, the battle was significant for the American cause, as it demonstrated the growing resistance in the region. The battle site near Moncks Corner is now commemorated by a historical marker, and the county’s role in the revolution remains an important part of its identity.

The Civil War

Like much of the South, Berkeley County was deeply affected by the Civil War. Its location along the Cooper River made it a critical site for military operations. Charleston Harbor was a major Confederate port, and the surrounding areas were used for military camps, fortifications, and supply depots. The county’s vast plantations were largely focused on cotton and rice production, which relied on enslaved African labor.

In 1861, the Union blockade of Confederate ports severely impacted the Southern economy, and Berkeley County became an important site for Confederate military defense. The First Battle of Fort Wagner and the siege of Charleston marked important engagements in the region. After the fall of Charleston in 1865, the Civil War’s impact on the county became undeniable, leaving economic hardships that would last for years.

Post-Civil War and Reconstruction

Following the end of the Civil War, Berkeley County, like the rest of the South, went through the tumultuous period of Reconstruction. The economy, which had been built on agriculture and slavery, faced collapse. Many plantations were abandoned or fell into disrepair, and the newly freed African Americans struggled to find economic independence amidst a hostile social environment.

During the Reconstruction period, the county saw significant changes in its social structure, with the introduction of laws and policies that aimed to provide some level of political and civil rights to formerly enslaved individuals. However, the Jim Crow era soon followed, with institutionalized segregation and racial discrimination setting back progress for African Americans for many years.

Economic Growth in the 20th Century

The 20th century saw significant changes in Berkeley County, including economic diversification, the rise of industry, and the establishment of key infrastructure projects. The construction of the Santee-Cooper Hydroelectric Project in the 1930s brought jobs and economic development to the region, with new electric power sources that improved the quality of life for local residents.

Additionally, Berkeley County saw growth in its agricultural sector, particularly in rice, cotton, and tobacco farming. As Charleston’s port remained vital to the economy, the county became a key player in the shipping and manufacturing industries, particularly during World War II.


Historical Sites in Berkeley County

1. The Berkeley County Courthouse

Overview:

The Berkeley County Courthouse in Moncks Corner is a historic building that dates back to the early 19th century. The courthouse, which houses the county government, stands as a testament to the region’s legal and political history. It has been the center of local government and justice for generations and is an excellent example of colonial and early American architecture.

Location:

1003 Highway 52, Moncks Corner, SC 29461

Ticket Price:

Free

Parking Information:

Ample parking is available around the courthouse square.


2. Old Santee Canal Park

Overview:

The Old Santee Canal Park is a historic site located along the Santee River that offers insight into the region’s colonial-era transportation systems. The canal was originally constructed in the 18th century to connect the Cooper River to the Santee River, facilitating trade and commerce. Today, the park features exhibits on the canal’s construction and history, as well as trails, a visitor center, and opportunities for boating and fishing.

Location:

900 Stony Landing Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461

Ticket Price:

$5 per adult, $3 per child

Parking Information:

Free parking is available at the visitor center.


3. Fort Dorchester State Park

Overview:

Fort Dorchester State Park is a well-preserved site that features the remains of an 18th-century British colonial fort, which was used during the French and Indian War. The fort was also an important site during the American Revolution. The park offers a museum, walking trails, and interpretive programs that highlight the site’s military and historical significance.

Location:

Off U.S. Highway 78, Summerville, SC 29483

Ticket Price:

$2 per person

Parking Information:

Free parking is available within the park grounds.


4. The Cypress Gardens

Overview:

Located in the heart of Berkeley County, Cypress Gardens is a natural and historical site that offers a tranquil setting for visitors to explore the beauty of the Lowcountry. The gardens feature a scenic boardwalk through cypress swamps, a butterfly house, and a historical exhibit that highlights the region’s agricultural and natural history. It also served as a filming location for the 1972 film The Notebook.

Location:

3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461

Ticket Price:

$10 for adults, $5 for children

Parking Information:

Free parking is available on-site.


County Facts

Geography and Climate

Berkeley County is located in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, bounded by the Cooper River to the west and the Santee River to the east. The county is characterized by flat, marshy terrain, coastal rivers, and a mild, subtropical climate. The region is prone to periodic flooding, especially along the river basins, but its extensive waterways provide vital agricultural irrigation and are central to the county’s ecosystem.

The climate of Berkeley County is classified as humid subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures hover around 85°F to 95°F, while winter temperatures rarely dip below freezing. The county receives an average of 50 inches of rainfall per year, with most precipitation occurring during the warmer months.

County Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1882
  • County Seat: Moncks Corner
  • Population: 229,000 (2020 Census)
  • Population Density: 215 people per square mile
  • Largest Cities: Moncks Corner, Goose Creek, St. Stephen
  • Major Highways: U.S. Route 52, U.S. Route 17A, Interstate 26
  • Adjacent Counties:
    • Dorchester County (south)
    • Charleston County (east)
    • Orangeburg County (northwest)
    • Sumter County (north)