Hopsewee, Rice plantation in Georgetown County, South Carolina.
Hopsewee is a colonial-era plantation on the North Santee River in South Carolina with Georgian architectural style. The main house displays period features such as expansive porches, local building materials, and tabby foundations made from a mixture of shells and mortar.
The property was founded in 1735 and became closely tied to Thomas Lynch Jr., who was born here and later signed the Declaration of Independence for South Carolina. His life shaped this site as a place of early American history.
The rooms and outbuildings tell stories of two different lives on this property: plantation owners lived here, while enslaved people worked and lived on the grounds. These narratives remain visible today through how the buildings are arranged and used.
Visitors can book guided tours of the main house, gardens, and surrounding landscape. Check ahead for operating hours and access conditions, as these may vary depending on the season and time of day.
The property still displays visible remains of historic rice cultivation systems directly along the river, including canal networks that are partially preserved. These structures show how rice was once grown and managed, setting this site apart from others.
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