Stateburg Historic District

Stateburg Historic District is a historic district in Sumter County spanning roughly 5,000 acres north and east of the settlement, with properties scattered along Meeting House Road and South Carolina Highway 441. The area contains ten National Register properties, including Borough House Plantation and the Church of the Holy Cross.

General Thomas Sumter founded Stateburg in 1783 as a settlement in the rural uplands. The area later attracted wealthy planters who built estates there during the 19th century, creating a secondary planter community.

The district reflects how wealthy Charleston families chose to build summer retreats here, creating a secondary settlement for the planter class. These properties shaped the local landscape as a collection of private estates rather than a compact town.

The properties within the district remain in private ownership and are not open to casual visitors for exploring the grounds. Plan to view the area from the roadway and public areas rather than entering private land.

The Miller House, later called Ellison House, belonged to Governor Stephen D. Miller before passing to the Ellison family, who achieved prominence in the community. William Ellison purchased his freedom in 1816 and went on to become a skilled craftsman and property owner of note.

Location: South Carolina

GPS coordinates: 33.97020,-80.51410

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:40