Experience Southern History at Hopsewee Plantation

Built circa 1740, some 40 years before the American Revolutionary War, Hopsewee Plantation was one of the South’s major rice plantations and the birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

 

Now privately owned, this National Historic Landmark—near Myrtle Beach and Charleston in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry—is open for 2023 season until Dec. 13 from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Tours start at the top of each hour, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Dining is available from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. We close for weddings and special events, so please be sure to check our calendar (click below) for availability.

Moss-covered entrance to Hopsewee Plantation and its majestic ground live oaks. Photo by Mick Schulte of MickSchultePhotography.com

The Grounds at Hopsewee Plantation

Step back into a serene spot in history. The golden vista of the North Santee River, set off by the cool green of ages-old trees and soft grays of the Spanish moss adorning them, sets the stage for quiet reflection. Trails through the ground’s lush and peaceful woods are a nature lover’s delight.

“With walls of black cypress and floors of heart pine, this stately house on the banks of the North Santee River is the real thing.”

—Steven Roberts, the Washington Post

the historic southern plantation home

Solidly built on a brick foundation covered by scored tabby, the house has stood the test of time since its construction some 40 years before the Revolutionary War. Typical of Lowcountry rice plantations of the early 18th century, the house features rooms opening into wide center halls on each floor as well as a full brick cellar, attic rooms, hand-carved molding and random-width heart-pine floors.

learn more about hopsewee plantation's history and heritage

Lynch History Hume-Lucas History Slavery and Rice Rice at Hopsewee Modern Times

Photography credits