Hopsewee Plantation
There are many beautiful day trips that are accessible from the Myrtle Beach area, after all, South Carolina is rife with historical landmarks, monuments and battlefields. No visit to the area is complete without exploring the surrounding areas and soaking in the rich and vibrant history that has made the Palmetto State what it is today. For lovers of colonial history one landmark not to be missed is the Hopsewee Plantation. This privately owned plantation is one of the most well maintained historic homes in the state, as well as an easy day trip from the Myrtle Beach area.
History of Hopsewee
Hopsewee Plantation is lovingly referred to as a ‘preservation’ and not a ‘restoration’. Located in Georgetown, SC, Hopsewee is listed as a National Historic Landmark. This stunning property, constructed almost 40 years before the Revolutionary War, has only been owned by 5 families throughout its history, and because of this, the home has never fallen into disrepair. In fact it has been lovingly maintained and cared for, which is immediately evident to those who visit the property.
Visiting Hopsewee is a delightful day trip from the Myrtle Beach area. The 45 minute drive is definitely worth it. A visit to Hopsewee is like stepping into an undisturbed piece of American history. Not only is the property beautiful, flanked by moss laden trees and framed by gentle rolling wooded walking paths overlooking the North Santee River, but it is also an important piece of early American history. Thomas Lynch Jr, one of the original inhabitants of Hopsewee Plantation, was the 52nd signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Tours
A day trip to Hopsewee includes a tour of the house from ‘attic to cellar’. While Hopsewee is a true colonial plantation, and not as large as an antebellum plantation home, there is much to be discovered. Tour guests are led through each room of the house which have been carefully furnished with eighteenth and nineteenth century furniture. During the tour visitors will learn about the rich history of Hopsewee, the families that lived there, as well as the slaves that worked the rice plantation. Tours also include visits to two of the original slave cabins as well as the beautiful grounds of the historic property.
Tea Room
No visit to Hopsewee is complete without stopping for lunch at the River Oak Cottage Tea room. Built in 2008, the River Oak Cottage Tea Room is ranked as one of the top three tea rooms in the State of South Carolina. The menu includes traditional Southern and English favorites, and is the perfect complement to the plantation tour. The cost of lunch in the tea room is not included in the price of the tour; however, guests who purchase their tour tickets in advance will receive a two dollar credit that can be used in the tea room.
More Information
For a quiet and relaxing day trip, a visit to Hopsewee Plantation is the perfect option. Those looking to immerse themselves in the early history of South Carolina, while enjoying the wonderful natural beauty of the south, will definitely not be disappointed with this historic treasure.
For more information on the Hopsewee Plantation and its history, check out this link. For tour prices and times click here.
Photo Credit:eyedear / 123RF Stock Photo
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