Moncks Corner, SC
Originally a trading post on on the southeast corner of the massive Mitton Plantation, Moncks Corner, SC has grown into a thriving community with a rich and storied past tied largely to the dense marshes in the area and the people who have lived in and around them over the years.
Now the county seat of Berkeley County, Moncks Corner was established by English planters in the early 1700s, and served as one of the area’s main trading posts for planters up and down the Santee River up until the turn of the last century. Synonymous with the many treacherous swamps in the area, Moncks Corner has long been referred to as the “Gateway to Hell Hole Swamp,” where Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox, and his band of irregulars reeked havoc on Lord Cornwallis’ troops, utilizing their local’s knowledge of the otherwise impassible swamps as a refuge from British forces. These exploits were made famous in the movie The Patriot staring Mel Gibson.
The rich traditions of the area are preserved at the Berkeley Museum, located on the grounds of Stony Landing Plantation. Exhibits depicting General Marion’s escapades; the indigenous people of the area; colonial life; the area’s role in the Civil War, and the evolution of the region to modern day. The museum has one of the most complete collections of artifacts in the area.
A favorite activity of residents and locals alike is wondering through the lush gardens and marshes of Cypress Gardens and Old Santee State Park. Both offer visitors a glimpse of what the area looked like when Europeans first stumbled upon the beautiful area.
Moncks Corner’s proximity to Charleston, the Atlantic coast, and area marshes and rivers make for an almost unlimited number of recreation options, from hunting and fishing to relaxing on the beach and golfing at some of the world’s best golf courses.
" Synonymous with the many treacherous swamps in the area, Moncks Corner has long been referred to as the “Gateway to Hell Hole Swamp.”
But while remembering its past, Moncks Corner hasn’t forgotten about its future. Today the town had a steadily growing population nearing 6,000, with two state of the art medical facilities to adequately take care of the increasing number of people, including many retirees, who are calling Moncks Corner home.
AT A GLANCE
Population: 5,952 Average Temp: 65F Average Age: 32 Nearest Hospital: Trident Medical Center Nearest Airport: Charleston International Airport Chamber of Commerce: Berkeley County Chamber www.BCOC.com (843) 761-8238
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