History of Bluffton SC | Bluffton Historical Information

Bluffton, South Carolina, is a charming town located in Beaufort County. The town’s history can be traced back to the early 1800s, when it was a small farming community. In 1825, the town was officially incorporated, and it soon became a commercial hub due to its location on the May River. Some of the historical places in Bluffton include the Heyward House Historical Center, a museum showcasing the town’s history and culture, and the Church of the Cross, a beautiful Gothic Revival church that was built in 1857.

Bluffton played a significant role in the Civil War. During the war, the town was occupied by Union troops, who used it as a supply depot and a base of operations for attacks on Confederate forces in the area. The town was also the site of several Confederate and Union forces skirmishes. Today, visitors can learn about Bluffton’s role in the Civil War by visiting the Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, which has interpretive exhibits and a walking trail that showcases the town’s history.

Over the past 100 years, Bluffton’s population has grown significantly. In 1920, the town had a population of just over 500 people. By 1960, the population had grown to around 1,000; by 1990, it had reached 1,275. Today, Bluffton is a thriving community with over 23,000 people. This growth can be attributed to the town’s location, natural beauty, and a strong economy.

Bluffton, SC has had several mayors over the past 100 years, each leaving their unique mark on the town’s history. One of the most notable mayors was William E. Simkins, who served from 1931 to 1942 and helped establish the town’s first water and sewer systems. Later, in the 1970s, Mayor L.J. “Bubba” Fennell focused on revitalizing the town’s economy and bringing in new businesses. Mayor Hank Johnston served from 1985 to 1995 and oversaw the town’s incorporation as a municipality. Mayor Lisa Sulka has worked to balance the town’s growth with preserving its historic charm and natural beauty in recent years. These mayors, along with many others, have played a significant role in shaping the town of Bluffton into the thriving community it is today.