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Dorchester County, South Carolina

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Parent: Charleston, South Carolina Hop 4
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Dorchester County, South Carolina
CountyDorchester County
StateSouth Carolina
Founded1897
SeatSt. George
Largest citySummerville
Area total sq mi575
Area land sq mi569
Area water sq mi5.9
Population as of2020
Population total161,540
Population density sq miauto
Time zoneEastern
Webwww.dorchestercountysc.gov
Ex image capDorchester County Courthouse in St. George

Dorchester County, South Carolina is a county located in the U.S. state of South Carolina. As of the 2020 United States Census, its population was 161,540, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. Its county seat is St. George, while its largest community is the historic town of Summerville. The county is part of the Charleston-North Charleston, SC Metropolitan Statistical Area and is known for its significant role in early colonial history, natural beauty, and modern economic development.

History

The area's history is deeply tied to early colonial settlement, originally inhabited by the Edisto and other Cusabo peoples. In the late 17th century, settlers from the Massachusetts Bay Colony established the original settlement of Dorchester near the Ashley River, named for Dorchester in Massachusetts. This community, associated with the Congregational church, was a significant early producer of rice and indigo and built the still-standing Old Dorchester State Historic Site with its iconic bell tower. The county itself was officially formed in 1897 from portions of Colleton County and Berkeley County. During the American Civil War, the area witnessed movements by Union forces, including General William Tecumseh Sherman's Carolinas Campaign. The 20th century saw the growth of Summerville as a tourist destination and later rapid suburban expansion.

Geography

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 575 square miles, of which 569 square miles is land and 5.9 square miles is water. It is situated within the South Carolina Lowcountry and is drained by the Edisto River and the Ashley River. The landscape features extensive pine forests, cypress swamps, and former rice fields. Significant natural features include parts of the Francis Beidler Forest, an Audubon Society sanctuary containing one of the largest remaining stands of old-growth tupelo and bald cypress swamp forest, and the Four Holes Swamp. The county borders Berkeley County to the east, Colleton County to the south, and Bamberg County and Orangeburg County to the west.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 161,540 people residing in the county. The racial makeup was approximately 62.5% White, 28.5% African American, 2.8% Asian American, 0.5% American Indian, and 3.6% identifying as two or more races. Individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin comprised 6.8% of the population. The population density was about 284 people per square mile. The median household income was notably above the state average, driven by growth in the Charleston metropolitan area. Major population centers include Summerville, which extends into Berkeley County, and St. George.

Government and infrastructure

Dorchester County operates under a council-administrator form of government. The county is part of South Carolina's 1st congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Nancy Mace. Law enforcement is provided by the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office, and the county is served by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Key infrastructure includes portions of Interstate 26 and U.S. Route 78, which facilitate commuting to Charleston. The county is also home to the Dorchester County Detention Center and is served by the Dorchester County Department of Social Services.

Economy

The economy has transitioned from its historical agricultural base of cotton, timber, and rice to a diverse mix of manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and technology. Major employers include the Volvo Cars manufacturing plant located in nearby Ridgeville, which has spurred significant industrial growth. The Navy Base and other federal installations in the greater Charleston area also employ many county residents. Retail and commercial development is concentrated along the Interstate 26 corridor in Summerville. Tourism remains a component, centered on historic sites like the Old Dorchester State Historic Site and natural attractions such as the Francis Beidler Forest.

Education

Public education is managed by Dorchester County School District 2, serving the Summerville area, and Dorchester County School District 4, serving the St. George area. Notable high schools include Summerville High School and Fort Dorchester High School. Higher education opportunities are provided through nearby institutions like Trident Technical College and the University of South Carolina. The county library system is part of the Dorchester County Library, with branches in Summerville and St. George.

Notable people

Notable individuals associated with the area include John J. Hearin, a prominent banker and philanthropist; Michele R. McPhee, an author and journalist; and several professional athletes such as A.J. Green, an NFL wide receiver, and Khris Middleton, an NBA All-Star. Historical figures include early settler Joseph Lord and Reverend Joseph Osgood, a leader of the original Congregational church settlers from Massachusetts.

Category:Dorchester County, South Carolina Category:1897 establishments in South Carolina Category:Counties of South Carolina