In 1730, Governor Robert Johnson proposed a "Township Plan," marking the beginning of Williamsburg County. This plan was proposed to stimulate the economy of the province to provide protection for coastal settlers. The township, which was laid out on the bank of the Black River, was named Williamsburg in honor of the Protestant King, William of Orange.

Williamsburg Township's success was largely attributable to the raising and processing of indigo. From indigo, came wealth and prosperity to the area. Hemp, flax, and Holland were other fine quality products introduced in the 1730's.

A settlement, existing on Black Mingo (later referred to as Willtown), had a "Meeting House" for dissenters in what later became Williamsburg County. In 1736, the first Williamsburg Presbyterian Meeting House was built. This "Meeting House" was the mother church for a wide area embracing several states.

In 1780, after the fall of Charles Town, the nucleus of "Marion's Brigade" was formed in this area. On August 27, 1780, the "Battle of King's Tree" took place and it was at this time that Major John James turned his group over to Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox. The fighting consisted of rear-action skirmishing, but heavy losses were substained. British Major James Wemyss, under orders from Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton, burned the Indiantown Presbyterian Church down.

The battles of Black Mingo (September 28-29,1780), Mount Hope Swamp (March 1781) and Lower Bridge (March 1781) were all fought in Williamsburg County.

In 1823, Robert Mills, a native of South Carolina and a nationally known architect, designed the Williamsburg County Courthouse. In 1883, a fire gutted the second story, but the massive brick barrel arches protected the public records in the first story.

Williamsburg, the first settlement, later was named King's Tree because the King reserved for his own use all white pines. In 1886, King's Tree became known as Kingstree. Kingstree became the county seat of Williamsburg County.

Years following the Revolution, Williamsburg County quickly prospered. Since then, Williamsburg County has become famous for its wildlife and hunting preserves. It has truly become a "Sportsman's Paradise."

Explore Williamsburg County and discover one of the most beautiful areas of South Carolina, where history echoes in the fine architecture and new memories are waiting to happen.

               This article can be found on the Williamsburg County Chamber of Commerce website at   http://www.williamsburgsc.org/