Sumter

Sumter County was first settled by Englishmen from Virginia and the South Carolina Lowcountry in the mid-18th century.

Sumter County was first settled by Englishmen from Virginia and the South Carolina Lowcountry in the mid-18th century. In 1800, Sumter District was founded from lands previously belonging to Claremont, Salem, and Clarendon counties. However, over the 19th and 20th centuries, the district became smaller when Clarendon County left the district, and some of the district’s land was used to create Lee County.

The Civil War had a substantial impact on Sumter County. Union troops invaded the county, and a small battle was also fought in the area. Additionally, the area is known as the home of educator Mary Mcleod Bethune and opera singer Clara Louise Kellogg.

Historically, Sumter County served as an important agricultural area. However, the economy shifted away from agriculture over time. Today, the economy relies mainly on the service providing and manufacturing industries. The county and its seat are named in honor of Revolutionary War general Thomas Sumter.

Workforce Breakdown of Economic Sectors. Accessed June 10, 2016. http://www.sumteredge.com/index.php/economic_sectors

Sumter National Forest (S.C.) Stop 6
Episode 6

Video

Here close to a stream, there is a high population of Mountain laurel trees, rhododendrons, Tuliptrees, Fraser magnolias, Halberdleaf violets, Rattlesnake plantains, Heartleaf, Poor Robin’s plantain...
Sumter National Forest (S.C.) Stop 1
Episode 1

Video

On this episode of NatureScene, Rudy and Jim visit Sumter National Forest. This area offers a wide variety of habitats, and springtime is the best time to visit these rolling hills. Here at the flood...
Sumter National Forest (S.C.) Stop 2
Episode 2

Video

This area features a wide variety of trees, such as beeches and maples. Lots of wild flowers popping up in this area as well, like Dwarf iris, and Rue anemone. Buckeye shrubs and Sweet shrubs can also...