South Carolina Department of Archives and History
National Register Properties in South Carolina

Summerville Historic District, Dorchester County (Summerville)
S1081771801121 S1081771801122 S1081771801123 S1081771801124 S1081771801125
Mrs. Stanley
Siegler House
209 W. Carolina Ave.
Old Town Hall
201 W. Carolina Ave.
Mrs. W. G. Verdell
Residence
208 W. Carolina Ave.
Edward Cate's House
134 Tupper Lane
W. Lang
Foster House
119 E. Carolina Ave.
S1081771801126 S1081771801127 S1081771801128 S1081771801129 S1081771801130
418 W. Carolina Ave. 420 W. Carolina Ave. 711 W. Carolina Ave. 400 S. Magnolia St. Ancrum House
1006 S. Main St.
S1081771801131        
205 Sumter Ave.

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Summerville originated as a pineland summer refuge for low country planters. Originally the streets were laid out without any plan and winding roads still characterize the oldest section of town. This “old town” lies in the southwestern portion of the historic district and contains about two thirds of the land and half the structures of the district. The South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company laid out the more regular “new town” in 1832. Streets run parallel and at right angles to the track laid in 1830-1831. The “old town” and that portion of the “new town” were incorporated into the village of Summerville in 1847. Following the Civil War, wealthy northerners began wintering there. The town’s designation in 1887 as a health spot gave it an impetus as a resort, which was not lost until the Depression of the 1930s. There are approximately seven hundred structures within the nominated area; about 70% predate World War I. Uniting the different building styles of the town is a common sensitivity to the natural setting and to the local landscaping traditions reflected in streetscapes, parks and gardens. Raised cottages, Greek Revival influenced, and Victorian/Queen Anne and other turn of the century structures are found throughout. Antebellum buildings are principally located in the southern and western areas. Churches are located in the center of the district, and the commercial buildings—most dating from around 1900—are located on either side of the town square in front of the present town hall, which faces the railroad. Additionally, Summerville has been the center for azalea culture and there is a variety of azaleas popularly named “The Pride of Summerville.” Listed in the National Register May 19, 1976.

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