Explore the History of Santee, SC
When you think of Santee, what is the first thing that comes to mind? It may be our world-class golfing venues or a relaxing day fishing on our lakes. Maybe you picture a visit to the nearby coast of Charleston. While these are highlights of our modern life, Santee, SC has a history just as rich as its present.
Native American History in Santee, SC
The history of Santee can be traced back to its native people for whom the region gets its name. Though the majority of Siouan-speaking tribes had settled in the Great Plains states, the Santee people were localized in what is now the modern-day Santee area. This tribe of indigenous people settled along the banks of the Santee River.
Historically, the Santee consisted of a small tribe estimated to be made up of about 3,000 when they established their presence around 1600 AD. In modern times, the Santee Indian Organization was recognized by the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs in 2006, with the remnant tribe’s population exceeding 6,000.
The Santee Canal
Completed in 1800, this waterway was America’s first constructed summit canal. By connecting the Santee and Cooper rivers, the Santee canal greatly contributed to the South Carolina economy by providing upstate and midland locals with a safer, more direct route of travel for goods to the port of Charleston.
The canal served South Carolinians until the 1850s, when shareholders were forced to surrender their charters due to steadily increased costs and competition caused by the rise of the railways.
What remained of this channel would later be dammed in the 1940s Santee-Cooper Project as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal recovery program.
The Santee-Cooper Project and the Rise of Lake Marion
To provide job opportunities and an economic boost to South Carolina citizens, Santee Cooper initiated the Hydroelectric and Navigation Project between 1939 and 1942.
This South Carolina infrastructure project was supported under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” and sought to supply the region with hydroelectric power by creating the Santee and Cooper River dams. As a result, these dams also created Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, respectively.
As a result of their creation, the Santee lakes are home to more than aquatic life. Visitors can also catch glances of the submerged forests beneath their waters, as well as remnants of Ferguson, a former deserted SC mill town.
For more on our home’s rich history, we recommend visiting the museum at Old Santee Canal Park.
Become a Part of Santee History
When you move to McCord’s Ferry at Lake Marion, you can explore this rich history first hand! Our lakefront community was established on the banks of Lake Marion and neighboring Santee State Park.
Conveniently located just an hour’s drive from the shore and major cities, our lakeside community gives residents access to all the best South Carolina has to offer. Contact us today to speak with an agent or visit our website to view our available homes and amenities.
