Dorchester

The Tabby Fort

State: South Carolina County: Dorchester County Founded: 1697 Abandoned: 1788 Peak Population: Unknown

Dorchester was founded by Congregationalists from Massachusetts. It flourished as a trading center until the Revolution. The British burned much of it in 1781. The ruins of the church bell tower and a well-preserved 'tabby' (oyster shell concrete) fort remain.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time: Winter/Spring

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Quick Facts

  • Preserved tabby fort
  • Church bell tower still stands
  • Archaeological treasure trove

Location

Address: Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, SC

Coordinates: 32.9567, -80.17