Childsbury Towne Heritage Preserve
Contact Information
SC Department of Natural ResourcesHeritage Trust Program
(803) 734-3886 (Columbia)
Hours of Operation
The area is open during daylight hours year-round.
Contributions to the Endangered Wildlife Fund on the South Carolina Income Tax Form help to make the identification and management of these preserves possible.
Photographs
Description
Started in 1707, Childsbury and the adjacent Strawberry Landing (est. 1705) are examples of an early frontier settlement away from the Port of Charleston. The area has been described as the “apex for commerce along the Cooper River.” As such, it is an important site for interpreting early contact between Native Americans, African Americans and Euro Americans. Significant features include a ferry landing, shipwrecks, homes, a tavern to serve the ferry, a racetrack, a free school and a general store. Numerous tradesmen, including carpenters, butchers, a tanner, shoemaker, and doctor were present on the site. The adjacent chapel and tavern continued in use after 1750 and fairs were held until the mid-1750’s.