Welcome to Kingstree, SC!
Just 70 miles north of Charleston SC is a small rural town called Kingstree, SC. I know it well because this quintessential small town is where the first of the McCullough’s dragged their belongings when they disembarked from the ship at Charleston harbor. Back then the town was known as one of the Carolina’s oldest inland settlements. While the town never grew to the size of cities such as Columbia or Charleston, life there is steeped in history, nature, wildlife and home cooking. It’s a great place for the outdoor minded; fish and game are plentiful, and there is a new state park in the works that highlights the Black River.
Besides the hunting and fishing, Kingstree is known for its unique vinegar and black pepper based BBQ (the origin of James Beard award winner Rodney Scott is half way between Kingstree and Hemingway Sc in a little town called Stucky). The annual fall festival in Kingstree is called “Pig Pickin” , which is a southern phrase for eating BBQ. This quaint phrase literally translates into pulling the meat of a whole bbq’d hog with your hands and saucing it. Each local family seems to have their own special recipe for the sauce, but they are all a delectable mix of vinegar and spices. Delicious!
As I mentioned earlier, one of the more central aspects of the area is the Black River. This river gets its name due to tannins from fallen leaves, which have dyed the waters its rich, almost dark color. The foliage surrounding the river are unique to this part of South Carolina, and are truly spectacular in spring and early fall. South Carolina Park service recently announced the development of a new state park that will further highlight this unique landmark. With the building of boat ramps and camp sites, this will make kayaking or camping on the river an unforgettable experience.
The town Kingstree itself is the county seat of Williamsburg County ,which is one of the largest and poorest of South Carolina counties. Despite its current state, it was once the richest due to its incredibly fertile soil and widespread farming. There are still several large farms in the area which is a large part of the regions economy. While you’re visiting, be sure to check out the historic buildings downtown. Most notably the Robert Mills Courthouse built in the 1820s. Academy Street has all the highlights; a coffee shop and bakery, boutiques and other businesses all housed in Golden Age era buildings.
Two restaurants you must be sure to visit are Downtown Cafe and Garden and Jarrito’s Mexican. Both of these diners are local favorites known to be packed to the gills after a hometown football game, especially the Cafe and Garden on karaoke night! After lunch, go for a stroll and shop for the latest fashion at the Paisley Pearl, Mia and Beaus or Miles and Company. All locally owned and operated. Just a short walk over on Hampton Ave, stop in and visit the Williamsburg Historical Museum and see artifacts and items from the area.
If souvenirs are something you’re searching for, you can walk across the street to The King’s Tree Merchants Market ,where you can find furnishings and unique wares that are mostly antique or handmade. If you decide to shop for a home in Kingstree there are some really exquisite colonial era homes that occasionally come available. Homes in the historic district close to downtown go quickly, and houses with land and space to spread out are also in high demand. Overall, Kingstree , and by extension Williamsburg county might not be a bustling metropolitan area, but the quiet and peaceful country life is a huge draw for anyone looking to resettle. Click here to see homes for sale in Kingstree SC!