Summerville, South Carolina Real Estate for Sale
The town of Summerville is situated 23 miles from downtown Charleston and has become a haven for families and people looking for the small town feel yet close proximity to the city of Charleston. Known for its beautiful flowers and established neighborhoods, Summerville is a popular choice for many people relocating to the area. You can choose from Summerville golf communities, Summerville new home construction, or historic Summerville homes.
History of Summerville
The town's name reflects its history. Situated on a pine-forested ridge, it was first inhabited in the late 1700's as Charlestonians and other inhabitants of the SC Lowcountry sought an escape from the summer heat, mosquitoes, and disease. The railroad in Charleston ran through Summerville to the upper part of Dorchester County, increasing traffic throughout the county.
The town of Summerville, as well as Charleston was severely impacted by the Civil War. Wreaking havoc on the town, the Civil War saw the collapse of the plantation system, which led to the collapse of Summerville and Charleston´s economy and lifestyle as well. Only after Reconstruction did the towns begin to recover.
A tremendous boon occurred for Dorchester County in 1899. A group of medical specialists met in Paris for a world congress on the topic of Tuberculosis. The "Tuberculosis Congress" named Summerville as one of the two best areas in the world to cure lung and throat disorders. Situated on a dry, sandy ridge, amidst pine trees which charged the air with derivatives of turpentine, Summerville was ideal for these patients. The findings were publicized, and people flocked to Dorchester County and Summerville in the winter time. The mild climate and great hunting caused Summerville to be extremely desirable to Northerners. This led to the building of inns and hotels to handle the mass of visitors, who first came for their health and then discovering the comeliness of the town, built winter homes and often became permanent residents.
Summerville Today
Today, Summerville and Dorchester County are still extremelydesirable to familes and individuals. The downtown area of Summerville was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. As a result, the small town, historic era has been preserved. However, the town continues to expand and grow to other parts of Dorchester County as more and more are attracted to the mild climate, excellent schools, and close proximity to Charleston and beaches. The Dorchester II School District serving Summerville is rated as having some of the best schools in the state.
The town of Summerville´s Mission Statement is as follows:
The mission is the establishment of a quality of life for the Town of Summerville that provides a safe, healthy, beautiful and harmonies place to live and work; the development of an environment to support services and attitudes needed to foster this mission in a financially responsible manner; the commitment to achieve this mission; and the wisdom to know when to modify our mission with guidance from God. Adopted by Town Council December, 1993