Georgetown, South Carolina

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Georgetown, South Carolina
City
Location of Georgetown, South Carolina
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	South Carolina
County	Georgetown
Founded	1729
Area
• Total	7.5 sq mi (19 km2)
• Land	6.9 sq mi (18 km2)
• Water	0.6 sq mi (2 km2)
Elevation	20 ft (6 m)
Population  (2020)
• Total	8,441
• Density	1,100/sq mi (430/km2)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP code	29440
Area code(s)	843
FIPS code	45-28805
GNIS feature ID	1245840

Georgetown is a city in and the county seat of Georgetown County, South Carolina, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 8,441. It is the third oldest city in South Carolina, following Charleston and Beaufort. Georgetown is located on Winyah Bay at the confluence of the Black, Great Pee Dee, Waccamaw, and Sampit rivers.

History

Georgetown was founded in 1729 and has a rich history that includes its role as a major port and center for the rice and indigo trade during the colonial period. The city played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War.

Colonial Period

During the colonial period, Georgetown was a thriving port city. The town's economy was based on the export of rice and indigo, which were grown on plantations in the surrounding area. The Prince George Winyah Episcopal Church, built in 1740, is one of the oldest churches in South Carolina and a testament to the city's colonial heritage.

American Revolutionary War

Georgetown was occupied by British forces during the American Revolutionary War. The city was a strategic location due to its port and access to inland waterways. Notable figures such as Francis Marion, known as the "Swamp Fox," conducted guerrilla warfare against the British in the surrounding areas.

American Civil War

During the American Civil War, Georgetown was an important supply point for the Confederate forces. The city was eventually captured by Union forces in 1865.

Geography

Georgetown is located at . According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 7.5 square miles, of which 6.9 square miles is land and 0.6 square miles is water.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Georgetown was 8,441. The city has a diverse population with a mix of different ethnic and racial groups. The median household income and per capita income are below the national average, reflecting the economic challenges faced by the community.

Economy

Historically, Georgetown's economy was based on agriculture, particularly rice and indigo. In the 20th century, the city became known for its steel mill and paper mill, which provided employment for many residents. Today, tourism is an important part of the local economy, with visitors drawn to the city's historic sites and natural beauty.

Education

Georgetown is served by the Georgetown County School District. The city is home to several public and private schools, as well as a campus of Horry-Georgetown Technical College.

Notable People

• Joseph H. Rainey, the first African-American to serve in the United States House of Representatives.
• Thomas Lynch Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Related Pages

• Georgetown County, South Carolina
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Beaufort, South Carolina
• American Revolutionary War
• American Civil War