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| State |
SC |
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| County |
Beaufort |
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| Population |
1,275 |
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| Location |
Intercoastal waterway |
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Bluffton, South Carolina
Situated on the intercoastal waterway across a bridge from Hilton Head Island, Bluffton is a small town at the juncture of South Carolina's past, present, and future. Historic mansions, churches, and fun little shops line the shaded streets of Bluffton's downtown historic district, where stately oaks trail delicate curtains of Spanish moss.
The town's name comes from its location on a scenic bluff overlooking the May River. Because of its prime location and beautiful natural surroundings, it has become home to a number of master-planned residential communities in recent years, as well as a number of award-winning restaurants.
History of Bluffton, South Carolina
By the early 1800's, Bluffton was a popular summer vacation spot for wealthy families of rice and cottton planters. Travel between coastal towns was most easily done by boat, and and the export business increased, Bluffton became an important distribution center, receiving goods from Savannah, Beaufort, and Charleston. The main street leading to the town wharf was lined with general stories and boarding homes for the travelers, and booming business brought Bluffton year-round residents.
In 1844, plantation owners in the region formed the "Bluffton Movement" to boycott the federal tariffs that had raised the cost of imports from abroad. Gathering around a tree that would become known as the "Secession Oak," they are said to have formed the secession movement. South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union 16 years later. During the Civil War, over 34 historic structures were destroyed, but many were left intact, leaving Bluffton with the antebellum charm it has today.
Climate and Location
Bluffton is located in what is known as the low country of South Carolina, along with Hilton Head Island and the Isle of Palms. The area is known for its beautiful sea marshes, lakes, quiet lagoons, and miles of sandy Atlantic coastline. The climate is temperate to sub-tropical, with average daily temperatures in the 80s in the summer and 60s in the winter.
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