Camden, South Carolina

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Camden, South Carolina

Camden is the oldest inland city in South Carolina, United States. It is the county seat of Kershaw County and is part of the Columbia, South Carolina metropolitan area. Camden is known for its rich history, equestrian events, and as a center of the American Revolutionary War.

History

Camden was originally inhabited by the Catawba people. The area was settled by Europeans in the early 18th century. In 1732, King George II of Great Britain granted a charter for the establishment of a township, which was named Fredericksburg. The town was later renamed Camden in honor of Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden, a British supporter of the American colonies.

During the American Revolutionary War, Camden was the site of two significant battles: the Battle of Camden in 1780 and the Battle of Hobkirk's Hill in 1781. The town played a crucial role in the Southern campaign of the war.

Geography

Camden is located in the central part of South Carolina, approximately 35 miles northeast of Columbia. The city covers an area of 10.68 square miles, with the Wateree River flowing nearby.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, Camden had a population of approximately 7,000 residents. The city has a diverse population with a mix of different ethnic and racial groups.

Economy

The economy of Camden is diverse, with key sectors including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. The city is home to several historic sites and attracts tourists interested in its rich history and cultural heritage.

Education

Camden is served by the Kershaw County School District. The city has several public schools, including Camden Elementary School, Camden Middle School, and Camden High School. There are also private educational institutions and a campus of Central Carolina Technical College.

Culture and Events

Camden is known for its equestrian events, particularly the annual Carolina Cup and the Colonial Cup steeplechase races, which attract visitors from across the country. The city also hosts various cultural events, including the Camden Revolutionary War Field Days and the Carolina Downhome Blues Festival.

Historic Sites

Camden is home to several historic sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site, the Camden Battlefield, and the Joseph Kershaw House.

Notable People

• Richard Rowland Kirkland, known as the "Angel of Marye's Heights" during the American Civil War
• Bernard Baruch, financier and statesman

See Also

• Kershaw County, South Carolina
• Columbia, South Carolina
• American Revolutionary War
• Battle of Camden
• Battle of Hobkirk's Hill