Sullivan's Island, South Carolina

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Sullivans-Lighthouse

Sullivan's Island
Town
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	South Carolina
County	Charleston
Incorporated	1817
Area
• Total	3.2 sq mi (8.4 km2)
• Land	2.5 sq mi (6.4 km2)
• Water	0.8 sq mi (2.0 km2)
Elevation	10 ft (3 m)
Population  (2020)
• Total	1,917
• Density	590/sq mi (230/km2)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP code	29482
Area code(s)	843
FIPS code	45-70285
GNIS feature ID	1250970

Sullivan's Island is a town in Charleston County, South Carolina, United States. It is part of the Charleston metropolitan area. The population was 1,917 at the 2020 census. The town is located on Sullivan's Island, at the entrance to Charleston Harbor.

History

Sullivan's Island has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. It was named after Captain Florence O'Sullivan, who was stationed as a lighthouse keeper on the island in the late 17th century. The island played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, particularly in the Battle of Sullivan's Island in 1776, where the Patriot forces successfully defended Fort Moultrie against the British Army.

During the 19th century, Sullivan's Island served as a quarantine station for enslaved Africans, making it a significant site in the history of the Atlantic slave trade. The island's Poe's Tavern is named after the famous American writer Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed at Fort Moultrie in the 1820s.

Geography

Sullivan's Island is situated at the entrance of Charleston Harbor, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Charleston Harbor to the west. The island is approximately 3.3 miles long and 1 mile wide, covering an area of about 8.4 square kilometers. The island's terrain is characterized by sandy beaches, dunes, and maritime forests.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Sullivan's Island had a population of 1,917. The town is known for its affluent residential community, with a high median household income and property values. The population density is relatively low, contributing to the island's tranquil and exclusive atmosphere.

Government and Infrastructure

Sullivan's Island operates under a mayor-council form of government. The town provides various public services, including police, fire, and emergency medical services. The island is also home to several historical landmarks and recreational facilities, such as the Sullivan's Island Lighthouse and multiple public beach access points.

Education

The town is served by the Charleston County School District. The local public school is Sullivan's Island Elementary School, which offers education from kindergarten through fifth grade. For higher education, residents typically attend schools in nearby Charleston.

Notable Residents

Sullivan's Island has been home to several notable individuals, including writers, artists, and public figures. Edgar Allan Poe is one of the most famous historical figures associated with the island.

Related Pages

• Charleston, South Carolina
• Fort Moultrie
• Battle of Sullivan's Island
• Edgar Allan Poe
• Charleston Harbor
• Atlantic Ocean