National Register of Historic Places listings in Dorchester County, South Carolina facts for kids
Dorchester County, South Carolina, is home to many amazing places that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. This special list helps protect buildings, sites, and objects that are important to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. Think of it like a hall of fame for historic spots!
These places tell us stories about the past, from old churches and homes to entire historic areas. In Dorchester County, there are 13 such properties and districts on this list. One of them is even a National Historic Landmark, which means it's extra special and important to the whole country!
Exploring Dorchester County's Historic Treasures
Dorchester County has a rich history, and many of its most important places are protected. Let's take a closer look at some of these fascinating sites.
Historic Churches and Campgrounds
Many of Dorchester County's historic listings are old churches and special outdoor camp meeting grounds. These places were very important for communities and religious gatherings long ago.
Appleby's Methodist Church
Appleby's Methodist Church was added to the National Register in 1978. It is located southwest of St. George. This church has been a central part of its community for many years. Old churches like this often have beautiful architecture and peaceful cemeteries.
Cypress Methodist Camp Ground
The Cypress Methodist Camp Ground is east of Ridgeville. It was listed in 1978. Campgrounds like this were once popular places where people would gather for days of religious meetings. They often had simple cabins or tents set up around a main meeting house.
Indian Fields Methodist Campground
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Another important campground is the Indian Fields Methodist Campground. It is about four miles northeast of St. George and was added to the list in 1973. These campgrounds show us how communities used to come together for important events.
St. Paul Camp Ground
The St. Paul Camp Ground in Harleyville was listed in 1998. It continues the tradition of outdoor religious gatherings. These sites are living examples of how people practiced their faith and built communities in the past.
Old White Meeting House Ruins and Cemetery
The Old White Meeting House Ruins and Cemetery is near Summerville. It was added to the National Register in 2005. Even though it's now mostly ruins, it tells a story of early settlers and their places of worship. The cemetery reminds us of the people who lived and built these communities.
Historic Plantations and Districts
Dorchester County also has historic plantations and large districts that are important. These places often include old homes, gardens, and even entire roads that have been preserved.
Middleton Place
Middleton Place is a very special site near Summerville. It was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1971. This means it's one of the most important historic places in the entire United States! Middleton Place was once a large rice plantation in the 1700s. Today, it is a museum where you can learn about its history, see beautiful gardens, and understand what life was like long ago. It is located right on the Ashley River.
Old Dorchester (Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site)
Old Dorchester, also known as the Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, is six miles south of Summerville. It was listed in 1969. This site holds the remains of an old colonial town. You can explore the ruins of buildings and imagine what life was like for the early settlers in South Carolina.
Ashley River Historic District
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The Ashley River Historic District is a large area along the Ashley River. It was added to the National Register in 1994. This district includes many historic properties and beautiful natural landscapes. It stretches into Charleston County too.
Ashley River Road
Ashley River Road (which is also South Carolina Highway 61) is a historic road that runs between Church Creek and Highway 165. It was listed in 1983. This road is special because it connects many of the historic plantations and sites along the Ashley River. Driving along it feels like taking a trip back in time. It also extends into Charleston County.
Summerville Historic District
The Summerville Historic District was added to the National Register in 1976. This district covers a large part of the town of Summerville. It includes many historic homes, churches, and buildings that show the town's unique character and history. Walking through this district is like stepping into a living museum.
Other Notable Historic Places
Dorchester County has a few other unique historic listings that are important to its story.
Carroll Place
Carroll Place is located at the junction of Quaker and Wire Roads near St. George. It was listed in 1974. This site is another example of a historic property that has played a role in the county's past.
Newington Plantation
Newington Plantation is near Stallsville. It was listed in 1974. The exact address of this property is restricted, which sometimes happens to protect historic sites.
Images for kids
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This image represents a place with a restricted address.
