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About Georgetown
Few other areas in America contain more history or charm than Georgetown, South Carolina. From its earliest beginnings as the probable site of the first European settlement in North America in 1526, to its present status as a vibrant and gracious city of 9,000, Georgetown has long been known for its warm hospitality and Southern charm.
Your browser may not support display of this image.The third oldest city in South Carolina, following Charleston and Beaufort, Georgetown was founded in 1729 and became an official port of entry in 1732. Prior to this, all foreign exports and imports had to pass through Charleston. Duties and the added freight had to be paid there. With the designation of Georgetown as a port of entry, the area's merchants and planters could deal directly with all ports, bypassing Charleston.
Your browser may not support display of this image.The first permanent settlers to the area were the English who were actively involved in the Indian trade. French and Scots settlers arrived shortly after and added to an expanding English contingent. During these early days of settlement most were either traders, planters or producers of naval stores.
Your browser may not support display of this image.From the years of early settlement, through the Revolutionary War and up to the advent of the Civil War, Georgetown flourished. Indigo and rice became the major crops of the area. Prior to the Revolution, the British Parliament encouraged the production of indigo with a bounty. The ready market for the blue dye enabled planters to make large fortunes quickly. With the advent of the Revolution, however, this bounty ended and the planters of the area turned to rice for their economic well being.
Your browser may not support display of this image.Georgetown played an active role in the American Revolution by sending Thomas Lynch, Sr. and Thomas Lynch, Jr. to the Continental Congress where the younger was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. British troops occupied Georgetown from July, 1780 to May, 1781. Many of the skirmishes between Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox, and British troops took place in Georgetown County.
Your browser may not support display of this image.As indigo was no longer profitable after the Revolution, the local planters turned to the production of rice. The many swamps and low-lying areas by the tidal rivers and the large labor supply made the cultivation of this crop highly profitable. By 1840, the Georgetown District (County) produced nearly one-half of the total rice crop of the United States and the port exported more rice than any port in the world. The local variety called "Carolina Gold" was in demand worldwide. This labor intensive crop provided great riches for the planters.
Your browser may not support display of this image.The Civil War changed the whole way of life for this region. The reconstruction period that followed was a social, political and economic upheaval. The rice crops following the war were failures, and rice could no longer support the economy of Georgetown. The combination of the disruption of the work patterns, competition from Southwestern rice growers, and several devastating hurricanes spelled the end of the once fabulous rice culture by the dawn of the twentieth century.
Your browser may not support display of this image.The need for an economic alternative to rice was met by lumber. The Atlantic Coast Lumber Company was incorporated in 1903. By 1914, it was the largest lumber producing plant on the East Coast. However, in 1932 ACL declared bankruptcy and Georgetown entered a period of immense economic decline. Recovery began in 1936 when International Paper Company built a plant here. By 1942 this plant had become the largest Kraft paper mill in the world. Georgetown Steel and an array of other smaller plants have diversified Georgetown's industrial base. Commercial fishing has become a significant industry. In recent years, retirees and vacationers have contributed greatly to the well-being of the area. Tourism has become an increasingly significant element in the area's economy.
Your browser may not support display of this image.Georgetown's long history combined with its diversity of cultures, linkage to the sea, triumphs, defeats and revitalizations have all contributed to create an area known for its charm and beauty.
Buying a New Georgetown Home?
Buying a Georgetown home can be a daunting task. Before setting out on your house hunting journey, you should
know what you really want to find. Take some time to list all the features that are most important to you and your
family. Here are a few ideas to consider in looking for a Georgetown home to purchase:
- Location – Georgetown has a good number of wonderful areas to choose from. Also think about your proximity
to quality schools, medical facilities, and shopping markets.
- Size – Do you need a certain number of bedrooms or bathrooms? Don’t forget about closet space
- Parking – Is a covered garage important to you?
- Style – 2-story house or ranch style home? New or older home?
- Air Conditioning & Heating – central heating and/or air conditioning can be a savior in Georgetown.
As you browse homes on , keep these ideas in mind. Your list may change over time as you do more looking.
You may want to add or remove features, or perhaps you'll become willing to make compromises to find the Georgetown home
that is the best fit for your family. With hundreds of beautiful Georgetown homes to choose from, you’ll surely find the
one for you. Get started now.
Selling your Georgetown Home?
Selling your Georgetown home through EXIT Realty Elite is the right decision. Our agents are here to guide you
through a potentially complicated process. You deserve top-dollar for your property and EXIT Realty Elite is committed to marketing
and selling your home. All of our agents are certified REALTORs® and they are determined to give you peace of mind
throughout the home selling process. With years of experience in the Georgetown home market, our team has the secret recipe
for attracting the right kind of home buyers at just the right time. Choosing EXIT Realty Elite is a wise decision. Learn a bit
more about our agents here.
Apply for a Home Loan to purchase your Georgetown home?
The Georgetown home market is highly active at this time. Interest rates continue to hover near record lows and it’s never
been easier to finance your Georgetown home purchase —whether it’s your first home purchase, a vacation property, or a retirement
townhouse. Find out how much house you can afford, learn about settlement and closing costs, and access the most current
lending rates through our preferred mortgage partner.