15 Facts About South Carolina

South Carolina is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is bounded on three sides by the state of Georgia, on the south and west, North Carolina on the north, and the Atlantic Ocean on the east.

The state has a long and illustrious history that dates back to the pre-colonial era, and it was critically important in both the American Revolution and the American Civil War.

Today, the state of South Carolina is well-known for its stunning beaches, a wide variety of food, historic buildings, and a bustling arts and cultural scene.

Myrtle Beach South Carolina

The state is home to a number of significant urban areas, the most notable of which are the state capital of Columbia and the historically significant port city of Charleston.

Because of its pleasant year-round temperature, abundant natural splendor, and warm and welcoming people, South Carolina is a favorite vacation spot for many people and an excellent location to settle down permanently.

South Carolina Facts

1. South Carolina was the eighth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on May 23, 1788.

On May 23, 1788, South Carolina became the eighth state to ratify the United States Constitution. At the time, South Carolina was one of the original 13 colonies.

South Carolina’s economy was mainly reliant on agriculture at the period, particularly the production of rice and indigo, and the majority of the state’s population consisted of wealthy landowners and individuals of African origin who were slaves.

In the early history of the state, there were also significant conflicts with Native American tribes. Some of these groups included the Cherokee, the Catawba, and the Yemassee.

Today, South Carolina is home to a population of varied backgrounds and boasts a culturally significant past.

2. Columbia is the state capital

The city that serves as the state capital of South Carolina is called Columbia, and it can be found in the middle of the state.

The South Carolina State House, the University of South Carolina, and the Columbia Museum of Art are just a few of the many historic landmarks that can be found in the city of Columbia.

South Carolina State House

On the other side, Charleston is the most populous city in South Carolina and can be found in the southeastern section of the state. Its historic quarter has been carefully preserved, and it is known for its stunning beaches and flourishing arts and cultural scene, all of which contribute to its popularity as a tourist destination.

The city of Charleston is also famous for its mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine, which is comprised of dishes such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and boiled peanuts, amongst others.

3. The State of South Carolina has an official dance

The State of South Carolina has designated the shag as its official dance. In the 1940s and 1950s, it was first performed in the beach music clubs that could be found along the coast of the state, particularly in the Myrtle Beach region.

The shag is a style of swing dance that is often done to the music of the 1950s and 1960s, specifically beach music, oldies, and rhythm and blues. It is distinguished by the fluidity of its motions and the attention placed on footwork throughout the dance.

The shag has become an essential element of South Carolina’s cultural legacy, and it is frequently performed at social gatherings, festivals, and dance contests around the state. In addition, the shag was recently named the official state dance.

4. University of South Carolina is the oldest public university

The University of South Carolina, which has its main campus in the capital city of Columbia, is the public university that has been around the longest in the United States.

It was established in 1801 as South Carolina College and was one of the earliest colleges or universities in the United States.

University of South Carolina

Almost 35,000 students are currently enrolled at the university, which is well-known for its robust academic offerings in a variety of disciplines including, among others, business, law, and international studies.

The state of South Carolina is home to a number of additional prestigious public and private schools and universities, such as Clemson University, Coastal Carolina University, and the College of Charleston.

5. South Carolina is known for its delicious Lowcountry cuisine

South Carolina has earned a reputation for its mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine, which is distinguished by the use of fresh seafood, rice, and a fusion of elements from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean.

She-crab soup is a creamy soup made with blue crab meat and crab roe, and boiled peanuts are a popular snack that is made by boiling raw peanuts in salted water until they are tender.

She-crab soup

Other popular dishes include shrimp and grits, which is a dish made with creamy grits and sautéed shrimp in a flavorful sauce; she-crab soup, which is a creamy soup made with blue crab meat and crab roe; and shrimp and

Other popular foods from the Lowcountry include hoppin’ john, which is cooked with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon, as well as red rice, fried catfish, collard greens, and red beans and rice.

The cuisine of South Carolina’s Lowcountry is an important component of the state’s cultural legacy and is popular not only among South Carolinians but also among tourists.

6. The sabal palmetto is the official state tree

The name “Palmetto State” was given to South Carolina, and the sabal palmetto, a species of palm tree, is recognized there as the official state tree.

The sabal palmetto was an important part of South Carolina’s history during the time of the American Revolution, which is where the state got its nickname, “The Palmetto State.”

Fort Moultrie was a major defensive position that helped the Continental Army resist a British attack on Sullivan’s Island in 1776. The tree was used to create the defenses of Fort Moultrie, which was a key defensive position.

Palmetto logs, which were used in the construction of the fort, had the unique ability to withstand the impact of cannonballs without breaking, making them an excellent line of defense against the artillery used by the British.

Since that time, the sabal palmetto has evolved into a symbol of perseverance and tenacity. In South Carolina, the sabal palmetto is depicted on both the state flag and the state seal.

7. South Carolina has many important historical sites

South Carolina is home to numerous significant historical sites, including Fort Sumter and Charleston’s historic district. Fort Sumter, located near Charleston Harbor, is where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired on April 12, 1861.

The fort is now a national monument, and tourists can take a ferry from downtown Charleston to the fort to learn about the history of the Civil War.

Charleston’s historic district is a well-preserved region that is home to several colonial-era structures and dwellings.

It contains the Battery, a seawall and promenade with spectacular views of Charleston Harbor, and the Charleston City Market, a historic market selling local crafts and food.

Other noteworthy historical places in South Carolina include the Beaufort Historic District, the Congaree National Park, and the Cowpens National Battlefield, among others.

8. South Carolina is home to several major military installations

Fort Jackson, Shaw Air Force Base, and the Marine Corps Recruit Station Parris Island are among the major military locations in South Carolina.

Fort Jackson, in Columbia, is the largest military training site in the United States Army, where new soldiers are trained.

The United States Air Force’s 9th Air Force and the United States Army Central are based at Shaw Air Force Base near Sumter. The base is critical for military activities in the Middle East and Europe.

Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, near Beaufort, is the eastern United States’ basic training station for enlisted Marines. The base is well-known for its tough training regimen and has appeared in a number of films and television series.

South Carolina has a long history of military service and support, and the state remains vital to the nation’s defense.

9. South Carolina is home to many famous state parks

South Carolina is home to a variety of state parks, each with its own unique features and attractions. Some of the most popular state parks in the state include:

  • Huntington Beach State Park, located near Murrells Inlet, which is known for its beautiful beach, salt marsh, and freshwater lagoon.
  • Myrtle Beach State Park, located in Myrtle Beach, which is known for its wide beach, fishing pier, and nature trails.
  • Table Rock State Park, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which is known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

Congaree National Park, Devils Fork State Park, and Hunting Island State Park are among the other popular state parks in South Carolina.

These parks include a variety of recreational options, including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating, as well as wildlife viewing and nature photography.

10. The state bird of South Carolina is the Carolina Wren

The Carolina Wren is the state bird of South Carolina (Thryothorus ludovicianus).

The Carolina Wren is a little brown bird with an audible song. It may be found across the state, especially in wooded areas, and is recognized for its daring and curious demeanor.

The Carolina Wren was named South Carolina’s state bird in 1948, and it is a popular symbol of the state’s natural beauty and variety.

11. The Angel Oak tree is a famous and iconic landmark in South Carolina

The Angel Oak tree is a well-known and recognizable landmark in South Carolina. It is believed to be between 400 and 500 years old and is located on Johns Island near Charleston.

The tree is named for the Angel family, who were the previous owners of the land on which it stands.

The Angel Oak is a major tourist destination and a symbol of South Carolina’s natural beauty and tradition. It is one of the largest and oldest live oak trees in the country.

The large, spreading branches of the tree give shade and shelter to a variety of species, and it is also a popular location for weddings, picnics, and other outdoor gatherings.

12. South Carolina is home to the oldest minor league baseball stadium in the United States

The oldest minor league baseball stadium in the United States is located in Charleston, South Carolina. The Charleston RiverDogs, a Class A affiliate of the New York Yankees, play their home games at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park.

The stadium was erected in 1997 and is named after Joseph P. Riley Jr., the former mayor of Charleston who was instrumental in its development.

The stadium is well-known for its scenic views of the adjacent Ashley River, as well as its intimate seating and traditional ballpark feel.

Aside from minor league baseball, the stadium accommodates a number of other events such as concerts, festivals, and community gatherings.

13. South Carolina’s population is approximately 5.2 million people

According to the most recent US Census Bureau predictions, South Carolina’s population will be around 5.2 million people in 2021.

The state’s population has grown steadily over the last several decades, with a 10.7% increase from 2010 to 2020.

Charleston, South Carolina’s largest city, with a population of over 140,000 people, followed by Columbia, the state capital, which has a population of over 131,000 people.

North Charleston, Greenville, and Rock Hill are also prominent cities in the state. South Carolina’s population is diversified, having African Americans, White Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans among its ethnic and racial groups.

14. The Blue Ridge Mountains make up almost one third of South Carolina.

South Carolina’s western portion is dominated by the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are part of the broader Appalachian Mountain range and span through several southern states, including South Carolina.

The rolling hills, rugged terrain, and magnificent panoramas distinguish the mountains.

The Blue Ridge Mountains of South Carolina are home to various state parks and recreational areas, including Table Rock State Park, Caesars Head State Park, and Jones Gap State Park, which offer hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

The Blue Ridge Mountains also support a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the region.

15. Sassafras Mountain is the highest point in South Carolina

Sassafras Mountain is the highest point in South Carolina, rising 3,554 feet (1,083 meters) above sea level.

Sassafras Mountain is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is located in the northwest region of the state, near the border with North Carolina.

The mountain is a popular hiking and wildlife attraction, with spectacular views of the surrounding environment.

A new observation tower on the summit of Sassafras Mountain opened in 2019, giving tourists an even better vantage point from which to experience the panoramic magnificence of the region.