Beaufort Realty
The Finest Properties
About Beaufort, South Carolina.
"Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands a historic heritage, natural environmental beauty in centuries-old Southern charm, combine to make Beaufort an ideal place to live. Choosing a breath taking view of the Atlantic Ocean or a quaint cottage overlooking Port Royal Sound or enjoy the small town atmosphere of a bustling modern city. The choices in Beaufort t are nearly endless. The results all the same, satisfied homeowners who love where they live."
Beaufort, South Carolina and its surrounding islands, shaded peacefully by moss-laden oaks and overlooking broad expanses of marsh and winding river, have witnessed a history of conflict that contrasts starkly with the natural serenity of the area. From the time that Spaniards sailed into Port Royal's harbor more than 400 years ago down to the present day, the various people living on these shores have been faced with wars, hurricanes, fires, epidemics and the vissitudes of economic fortune in their struggle to match their environment.
By 1700, 4 flags had flown over the area: Spanish, French, Scots, English, yet the land remained wild and unsettled. In 1710 the Lords Proprietors decided to establish "a fort upon the river called Port Royal" as the most proper place in that part of the province for ships of Great Britain to take in masts, pitch, tar, turpentine and other naval stores. Accordingly, Beaufort Town was laid out in December 1710 and named in honor of one of the proprietors, Henry, Duke of Beaufort.
In 1715, as the settlers pushed the Indians farther inland, the Yemassee War erupted. The Yemassee Indians ravaged the settlement of Beaufort, ransacking and burning homes and slaughtering the cattle in the fields while the survivors of the attack took refuge on a British ship anchored in the harbor. By 1719, the settlers had driven out the Indians and the King of England was again in charge of the province. The years of royal government were stable and prosperous ones, and the foundation of many a family was laid during this period. With the export of rice and indigo to England bringing substantial profit.
As their prosperity increased, the area planters built beautiful homes in Beaufort, entertained lavishly, and educated their sons abroad and in the colleges of New England. Beaufort became the "wealthiest town of its size in America" during this time.
The town was occupied by the British during the American Revolution and by the union forces from November 7, 1861 and through the reconstruction period following the War Between the States. Many of the homes were used for officer's quarters and hospitals, and because of this, were saved from destruction.
Beaufort prospered during the reconstruction era when rice and cotton were planted and exported . In the 1890's phosphate rock was found, and prosperity was diversified. However, this was short-lived as the hurricane of 1893 destroyed the phosphate mines and put the citizens of Beaufort in economic straits.
Beaufort found its resiliency and versatility when farmers found their truck crops thrived in the rich, black subsoil. For over 40 years farming and fishing were the economic stability of the community. During the build up of World War II, two military bases and a thriving agricultural and fishing economy allowed Beaufort to again prosper. The 2002 economy is somewhat diversified with light industry, tourism and military bases its backbone. Beaufort enjoys a subtropical climate with enough change I the seasons to differentiate its climate from its neighbors to the south.
A strong cultural arts program, good medical facilities, a network of modern bridges and connecting highways and all shoppers goods convenient to the entire area make living in Beaufort a solid choice.
Come visit us.
