Fairfield County, South Carolina

Fairfield_County_Courthouse

Fairfield County
U.S. county
Location within the U.S. state of South Carolina
South Carolina's location within the U.S.
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	South Carolina
Founded	1785
Seat	Winnsboro
Area
• Total	710 sq mi (1,800 km2)
• Land	686 sq mi (1,780 km2)
• Water	24 sq mi (60 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	20,258
• Density	29.5/sq mi (11.4/km2)

Fairfield County is a county located in the state of South Carolina, in the United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,258. Its county seat is Winnsboro. The county was formed in 1785.

History

Fairfield County was established in 1785, one of the original counties created after the American Revolution. The county's name is said to have been inspired by the "fair fields" of the area. The region has a rich history, including significant events during the American Civil War.

Geography

Fairfield County is situated in the central part of South Carolina. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 710 square miles, of which 686 square miles is land and 24 square miles (3.4%) is water. The county is part of the Columbia, South Carolina metropolitan area.

Adjacent counties

• Chester County - north
• Lancaster County - northeast
• Kershaw County - east
• Richland County - south
• Newberry County - west
• Union County - northwest

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 20,258 people, 7,800 households, and 5,400 families residing in the county. The population density was 29.5 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the county was diverse, with a significant percentage of African American residents.

Economy

The economy of Fairfield County is diverse, with sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county has also seen growth in tourism due to its historical sites and natural beauty.

Education

Fairfield County is served by the Fairfield County School District, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The county is also in proximity to higher education institutions in the Columbia metropolitan area.

Transportation

Fairfield County is accessible via several major highways, including Interstate 77, which runs through the county. The county also has a network of state and local roads that facilitate transportation and commerce.

Communities

• Winnsboro (county seat)
• Ridgeway
• Jenkinsville

Notable People

• Robert Smalls - An African American politician, publisher, and businessman who was born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina, but later became a prominent figure in the state.

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Fairfield County, South Carolina
• List of counties in South Carolina