Bluffton, SC in Beaufort County is a blend of a quaint southern traditions with the modern conveniences of the 21st century. The town is situated on a bluff overlooking the May River just 12 miles west of Hilton Head Island, SC and about 20 miles from Savannah, GA. It is easily accessible from South Carolina Highways 46, 170, & 278 and Interstate 95.
The Bluffton Old Town Merchant Society encourages discovery of the Bluffton historic sites as well as experiencing the town’s distinctive charm. Antebellum homes, unique shops, historic churches lying along moss-shaded streets appeal to the residents and endear visitors who are searching for a more relaxed lifestyle in a town with a strong sense of community.
Bluffton History
 During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the southern Beaufort County area was known as Granville County of St. Luke’s Parish and was inhabited by the Yemassee Indians. By 1715, the Yemassee War drove the Yemassee tribe to Florida, opening up the “Indian Lands” for European settlement. Three years later, the area was carved into several “baronies”, including the Devil’s Elbow Barony that eventually gave birth to the town of Bluffton.
The first homes were constructed in the early 1800s by area plantation owners who found the higher ground and cool river breezes a welcomed escape from the unhealthy conditions found on the Lowcountry rice and cotton plantations. The Town was officially incorporated in 1852 by an act of the South Carolina General Assembly. A steamboat landing was constructed to allow the Town to become a stopover for travelers between Savannah and Beaufort or Charleston.
Within one year of the attack on Fort Sumter, Bluffton became a safe haven for those fleeing from Union Army’s occupation of the South Carolina barrier islands. Bluffton served as headquarters for Confederate forces until the town was nearly destroyed by those Union forces in 1863. Some 60 structures stood in the Town before the attack, but only the Town’s two churches and fifteen residences remained after the attack.
With the wealth of those who remained virtually wiped out, rebuilding was a slow process until the 1880s when Bluffton emerged as a commercial center for Beaufort County. However, the Great Depression dealt Bluffton another blow and ended the town’s prosperity and position of commercial importance, though it did remain a popular vacation spot. The more recent development of Hilton Head Island and nearby Sun City have brought a resurgence of commercial viability and growth to the town.
Bluffton Real Estate
Bluffton is growing fast. There are many new Bluffton Communities and established Bluffton Communities. For the most effective home search, join the Eagle Club!
Whether you are looking for a permanent place to live or a vacation home near the ocean, Bluffton SC real estate offers plenty of charm and amenities in a strong-hearted community.
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