A Bluffton Lifestyle

INTRODUCTION
Bluffton is located on the Atlantic Coast near the southeastern end of South Carolina in Beaufort County. As part of an area referred to as the Lowcountry (the low-lying area or the coastal plains of Georgia and South Carolina), Bluffton is 23 miles north of Savannah, GA and about 100 miles south of Charleston, SC. Its closest neighbor is Hilton Head Island, just over the bridge on U.S. 278. Bluffton, an area covering 34 square miles, derives its name from an advantageous position on a scenic bluff above the May River. Along with Hilton Head and Beaufort, it is part of the Treasured Coast of South Carolina.

As you enter Bluffton on Highway 46, you are greeted by a sign that quickly introduces you to the town:

"Settled in 1825 as a summer resort of rice and cotton planters, this town was incorporated in 1852. Here in 1842 was launched the protest against the federal tariff known as the Bluffton movement."

This hints at a colorful and important past, made apparent by the historic buildings and churches, antebellum homes, and antique shops located in the National Register Historic District. Amenities that are more contemporary include a growing number of residential communities offering fertile landscapes that embrace the area’s golf courses and homes.

Originally, when the Indians lived in Bluffton, they would spend their days eating oysters and other types of fish. In 1715, the Yemassee war broke out and lead to many years of fighting. Before that however, the Bluffton area was known as “Indian Land”. In 1718, the Indians were driven out of Bluffton and forced to relocate their 1,200 inhabitants and towns to Florida opening the land up for European development. In this exchange, the Europeans adopted a piece of land called “The Devil's Elbow” which is now where Bluffton sits.

The city of Bluffton, South Carolina is rich with historic presence. Bluffton, nestled along the coast of South Carolina, is just over the bridge from Hilton Head Island. It overlooks the May River perched on a bluff. Bluffton was originally a place where rice and cotton farmers would take their summers and spend their days fishing, crabbing or just relaxing. Since Bluffton is right on the coast, it was an excellent post for international trade. Over time however, the government raised tariff's and soon the residents of Bluffton secessed. A few years later South Carolina was the first state to claim secession from the Union.

While walking through Bluffton, there is a wonderful feeling of times gone by. Visitors feel as though they have been catapulted back the 1800's. By 1830, Bluffton was a booming commerce city that was serving the surrounding plantations, travelers and dock workers. However, in 1844, during the Civil War, Bluffton was burnt to the ground leaving nothing but a ghost town. Awhile later, it was rebuilt and people moved in permanetly while importing farm supplies and exporting local crops. The Heyward House in Bluffton is a prime example of classic Carolina architecture.

The Heyward House was built around 1840 for the Moreland Plantation and is the 4th oldest standing structure in southern Beaufort county.

With easy access to Hilton Head Island, historice Beaufort, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, visiting Bluffton does not constrict the desire to explore.

In addition to easy access to shopping and other historic attractions, Bluffton also offers excellent opportunity for outdoor activities such as fishing, crabbing, shrimping, tennis and golf. There is also plenty beach access points. If history is the interest, visit one of the many museums or other historical sites either in Bluffton, Beaufort, or take a day trip to Savannah, Georgia.

Love antique shopping? There are plenty of venues in which to do that. Besides antiques, there are plenty of shops and boutiques. Bluffton is prosperous when it comes to local art. There are countless art galleries and artists to visit and explore.

A lot of visitors that come to Bluffton do not want to stay in a cold, sterial hotel for their vacation. If that is the case, check out the many bed and breakfasts that will host in a warm, welcoming way.

In addition to shopping, history, and lodging, there are fabulous places to eat offering a wide array of menu items. The dining choices are widely spaced, from traditional Low Country cuisine to Cajun and seafood.