TRIPS ON A TANKFUL: Hopsewee Plantation
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Trips on a Tankful
Trips on a Tankful
There are great spots to visit off the beaten path without breaking the bank. Frank Johnson and his family discovered the beauty and history of Georgetown’s Hopsewee Plantation on one recent day trip.
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Hopsewee Plantation
WHERE: South of Georgetown
HOW TO GET THERE: From Myrtle Beach: South on Highway 17 through Georgetown. Hopsewee is located on Highway 17, 12 miles south of Georgetown, right before you cross the North Santee River - 101 miles round trip.
From Florence: South on Highway 51 to Georgetown. Take a right onto Highway 701, then south on Highway 17. 166 miles round trip.
WHAT YOU CAN DO THERE: Tour the house and grounds
COST: Adults $15, Children 5-17 $7.50, Tour the grounds only $5.00 per vehicle.
CONTACT INFO: (843) 546-7891, http://www.hopsewee.com/
The high price of gas has dashed the dreams of many wanting to take an affordable vacation this year. So why not hop in the car and take a day trip? There are great spots to visit off the beaten path without breaking the bank.
Hopsewee Plantation
Hopsewee Plantation was built in the 1730, and very little about the house has been changed since.
A visit to Hopsewee is special because you get to see the whole house, from attic to basement, and you learn a lot about the history of South Carolina and the Lowcountry.
The house was built facing the Santee River, since that was the main mode of transportation back then. The plantation grew rice and indigo on the Santee River delta, the largest delta on the East Coast, and second in America to only the Mississippi delta.
Hopsewee is best known as the birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Lynch, Sr., was also supposed to sign, but fell ill, and was never able to sign the document. A blank space was left where the elder Mr. Lynch was supposed to sign.
Hopsewee also played a part in the war of independence from Britain. One of the owners of the plantation, John Hume, rode in Gen. Francis Marion’s brigade. It is not known if any battles were fought at Hopsewee, but the Swamp Fox was welcomed at the plantation, and Hopsewee supplied him.
The home is in remarkable condition, and has never fallen into disrepair. It is in mostly original condition, including graffiti from the 1800s and 1900s. The home and the grounds, with its massive oaks, are a great way to learn about South Carolina’s history.
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Reader Reactions
This is a great feature.
I had never heard of Hopsewee Plantation. We’re headed down to check it out real soon. Great looking family you had there, Frank. I know you’re real proud. Thanks for sharing.
Mr. Mookie
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