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Beaufort County is a county located in the state of South Carolina in the United States. It was named after Henry Somerset, the Duke of Beaufort, who was one of the Lord Proprietors of Carolina. Beaufort County was founded in 1769 and was originally part of the larger Granville County. The county seat is Beaufort.

The area that is now Beaufort County was originally inhabited by the Yemassee Native American tribe. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers sailed along the coast of the area, but it was not until the 17th century that the first permanent European settlements were established.

The first English settlement in the area was established in 1670 on nearby Port Royal Island. The town of Beaufort was founded in 1711 and became an important center of trade and commerce for the region.

During the American Revolutionary War, Beaufort County was occupied by British forces and saw several battles, including the Battle of Port Royal Island in 1779. After the war, the county became an important center of agriculture and cotton production.

In the 19th century, Beaufort County played a significant role in the Civil War. It was the site of the famous "Sherman's Neckties," in which Union forces destroyed railroads in the area to prevent Confederate troops from using them. The county was also the site of the Battle of Port Royal Sound in 1861, which saw Union forces gain control of the area's sea lanes.

After the war, Beaufort County experienced a period of reconstruction and growth. It became an important center of tourism and was popular among wealthy Northerners who visited the area for its mild climate and natural beauty.

Today, Beaufort County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. It is home to several historic sites, including the Penn Center, which was the first school for freed slaves in the United States, and the Beaufort National Cemetery, which is the final resting place for many Civil War veterans.

Top Tourist Attractions

Beaufort County, South Carolina, has a variety of tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Beaufort County:

• Beaufort Historic District: The Beaufort Historic District is a designated National Historic Landmark and is one of the most charming and picturesque areas in South Carolina. It features a variety of historic homes, churches, and other buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Hunting Island State Park: Hunting Island State Park is one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina, featuring five miles of pristine beaches, a lighthouse, nature trails, and a variety of camping facilities.
• Parris Island Museum: The Parris Island Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the US Marine Corps. The museum features exhibits and displays that chronicle the history of Parris Island and the Marine Corps.
• Penn Center: The Penn Center was the first school for freed slaves in the United States and is now a national historic landmark. Visitors can tour the historic campus, attend cultural events, and learn about the important role the center played in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Beaufort Waterfront Park: The Beaufort Waterfront Park is a beautiful public park that overlooks the Beaufort River. The park features a playground, walking trails, picnic areas, and a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.
• Gullah Heritage Trail Tours: The Gullah Heritage Trail Tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the Gullah people, who are descendants of enslaved Africans who lived in the coastal areas of South Carolina and Georgia.
• The Kazoo Factory: The Kazoo Factory in Beaufort is the only manufacturer of metal kazoos in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the factory, learn how kazoos are made, and even make their own kazoo to take home as a souvenir.
• The Santa Elena History Center: The Santa Elena History Center is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Spanish colonial period in South Carolina. Visitors can view exhibits, attend lectures and events, and learn about the important role that Santa Elena played in the early history of America.

Climate

Beaufort County, South Carolina, has a humid subtropical climate. The summers are hot and humid, with high temperatures averaging in the low to mid-90s Fahrenheit (32-35°C) and high humidity levels. The winters are mild, with average high temperatures in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (10-16°C) and occasional overnight freezing temperatures.

The county receives an average of about 50 inches (127 cm) of precipitation per year, with the majority falling during the summer months due to thunderstorms and hurricanes. Beaufort County is also prone to occasional tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Visitors to Beaufort County should be prepared for hot and humid conditions during the summer months and should stay informed about potential weather events during hurricane season.

Geography

Beaufort County is located in the southernmost part of the state of South Carolina, in the southeastern United States. It is situated on the coast and includes several islands, including Hilton Head Island, Parris Island, and St. Helena Island. The county has a total area of 923 square miles (2,392 square kilometers), with 586 square miles (1,517 square kilometers) of land and 337 square miles (875 square kilometers) of water.

The landscape of Beaufort County is characterized by salt marshes, estuaries, and barrier islands. The county is also home to several rivers, including the Beaufort River, the Broad River, and the May River. These bodies of water are important to the local ecosystem and provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.

The county is known for its natural beauty, with many visitors coming to enjoy its beaches, waterways, and wildlife. It is also home to several state parks and wildlife preserves, including Hunting Island State Park, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, and the ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge.

Overall, the geography of Beaufort County plays a significant role in the economy and culture of the region, providing opportunities for tourism, recreation, and conservation.