Old Dorchester
Revolutionary War abandonment
State: South Carolina
County: Dorchester County
Founded: 1696
Abandoned: 1780s
Old Dorchester was one of Carolina's largest colonial towns—then the Revolutionary War destroyed it. British occupation and strategic burning left only the church tower and fort. Now a state historic site preserving the ruins of a once-thriving colonial port.
Quick Facts
- Founded by Massachusetts Congregationalists in 1696
- Revolutionary War destroyed the thriving town
- 1720 church tower still stands
- Fort built of tabby (oyster shell concrete)
Location
Address: Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, Dorchester County, SC
Coordinates: 32.9739, -80.1636