Walterboro is more than just the county seat

Since the early 1800's, Walterboro has been the cultural and historical center of Colleton County and has shared in its rich history. It's appropriate that the Rice Festival has called Walterboro home for nearly 40 years since the town owes much to the cash crop of the county.

Walterboro began as many pineland forest villages in the early years of our country when two brothers, Paul and Jacob Walter, needed a summer retreat from the hot and humid rice plantations along the Lowcountry marshes. In 1784, they built the first house in the village of Hickory Valley and the town of Walterboro was born in 1826.

Becoming the new county seat in 1817, the town quickly grew around the Colleton County Courthouse. Thankfully, many of the nineteenth century buildings still stand and serve as wonderful reminders of the plantation lifestyle of the pre-Civil War years. As you stroll the historic districts in the center of town, you are transported to a period of grace and charm that serves as the foundation for Walterboro's rich cultural history.

There is much to see. Let us show you why Walterboro is the front porch of the Lowcountry. Begin with a stop at the Walterboro Welcome Center located just off I-95 at Exit 53 near the edge of town. Gather maps, hear about points of interest and get valuable tips that are sure to get you started on the right foot.

Colleton County Courthouse 

Fripp-Fishburne-Hiott  House

Jones-McDaniel-Hiott House