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Bluffton History:
1718
Land around Bluffton was open to settlement after the Yemassee War.
1800
The first homes were constructed along the bluffs of the May River.
Owners of the area cotton and rice plantations escaped here to enjoy the
cool river breezes.
1831
The first streets were laid in Bluffton.
1844
The first cries of secession in South Carolina were heard in Bluffton at
the 'secession oak.'
1852
The town of Bluffton was incorporated and a steamboat landing was
constructed at the end of Calhoun Street. Bluffton became a stop for
travelers from Charleston, Beaufort and Savannah.
1861
The town was a safe haven for residents escaping the Union occupation of
Hilton Head Island and Beaufort. Confederate troops used the area to
track Union troop movements.
1863
Union army and naval forces fire and pillage the town, over forty
structures were destroyed.
1880
Reconstruction allowed for Bluffton to become a leading commercial
center for Beaufort County.
1900
The demand for Bluffton oysters helped increase the town's economic
growth.
1922
Construction of US 17, over the Savannah River, slows river boat travel
and Bluffton's economy.
1974
Moss Creek is the first residential community established in Bluffton.
1995-
Bluffton reemerges as a residential community for people seeking a
Carolina lifestyle. |
