Moncks Corner, SC
Originally a trading post on on the southeast corner of the
massive Mitton Plantation, Moncks Corner has grown into a thriving community
with a rich and storied past tied largely to the dense marshes in the area and
the people who have lived in and around them over the years.
Now the county seat of Berkeley County, Moncks Corner was established by English
planters in the early 1700s, and served as one of the area’s main trading posts
for planters up and down the Santee River up until the turn of the last century.
Synonymous with the many treacherous swamps in the area, Moncks Corner has long
been referred to as the “Gateway to Hell Hole Swamp,” where Francis Marion,
the Swamp Fox, and his band of irregulars reeked havoc on Lord Cornwallis’ troops,
utilizing their local’s knowledge of the otherwise impassible swamps as a refuge
from British forces. These exploits were made famous in the movie The Patriot
staring Mel Gibson.
The rich traditions of the area are preserved at the Berkeley Museum, located
on the grounds of Stony Landing Plantation. Exhibits depicting General Marion’s
escapades; the indigenous people of the area; colonial life; the area’s role
in the Civil War, and the evolution of the region to modern day. The museum
has one of the most complete collections of artifacts in the area.
A favorite activity of residents and locals alike is wondering through the
lush gardens and marshes of Cypress Gardens and Old Santee State Park. Both
offer visitors a glimpse of what the area looked like when Europeans first stumbled
upon the beautiful area.
Moncks Corner’s proximity to Charleston, the Atlantic coast, and area marshes
and rivers make for an almost unlimited number of recreation options, from hunting
and fishing to relaxing on the beach and golfing at some of the world’s best
golf courses.
" Synonymous with the many treacherous swamps in the area, Moncks
Corner has long been referred to as the “Gateway to Hell Hole Swamp.”
But while remembering its past, Moncks Corner hasn’t forgotten about its future.
Today the town had a steadily growing population nearing 6,000, with two state
of the art medical facilities to adequately take care of the increasing number
of people, including many retirees, who are calling Moncks Corner home.
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