Otranto Plantation Indigo Vats

The Otranto Plantation Indigo Vats are two square basins measuring about 14 feet (4.3 meters) across with stuccoed interiors designed for fermentation and settling. These containers represent the basic structure of a colonial-era processing plant for indigo dye production.

The facility originated during South Carolina's colonial period when indigo production was a major source of wealth for the region. The basins were moved in 1979 and later designated as a historic place for their importance to agricultural history.

The structures show how indigo was made using specific knowledge of fermentation and careful timing to get the best dye from plants. Visitors can see the remains of work methods that required skill and experience to do well.

The vats are located along Secondary Road 503 east of Goose Creek and are visible from the road. Visitors should explore the area ahead of time since there are no major visitor facilities on site.

The upper basin was steeper and connected to a lower beating basin through a small opening that let processed liquid flow between chambers. This linking system shows how the operation was thoughtfully designed for efficiency.

Location: Berkeley County

GPS coordinates: 32.98390,-79.93250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:20