South Carolina information
South Carolina is a land of "firsts." It was the first province in the New World to plant rice for sale. South Carolinians were the first to seize British property by force as a prelude to the American Revolution, and they were the first to secede from the Union when the Civil War was eminent. The state is home to the first public museum and the first formal gardens in the United States. Beth Elohim Reform Temple was the birthplace of Reform Judaism in the United States. You can see the sites and learn all about the history of these events in Charleston, the first permanent settlement in the Carolinas.
Charles Towne, now Charleston, was founded by eight English noblemen in 1670. From its coastal beginning, the state grew inland, attracting settlers from several European nations. They primarily made their living from the land, until the Civil War brought agriculture to a fiery halt. The state recovered slowly. Although the textile industry began in the 1880s, it wasn't until after World War II that South Carolina was able to pull out of its economic slump. Today, manufacturing and tourism play key roles in the state's economy.
South Carolina offers luxurious resorts with fine dining and world-class golf courses, excellent fishing and the longest deer-hunting season in the country. You can canoe down a mountain stream or ride a horse through one of the state parks. It's a place to find a romantic hideaway or the perfect spot for a family vacation. Golfers will be pleased to know that the state has more than 350 courses. You can play nearly anywhere during your vacation.
Charleston and Myrtle Beach are the state's most well-known cities. But while they are both on the sea, they couldn't be more different. Charleston with its historic homes and elegant gardens is more subdued and traditionally Southern. Myrtle Beach bustles with activity. It's a season-long beach party. Both have much to offer visitors and make a good starting point to other areas of the state.
With its 47 state parks, miles of coastline, and dozens of historic sites and other attractions, South Carolina offers myriad activities to meet just about any taste.
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