Aiken County, South Carolina is an area rich in history, with a unique blend of events that have shaped the cultural, social, and political landscape of the region. Here, we take a look at 7 historical events that have taken place near Aiken County, SC that have had a significant impact on the area and beyond.

1. Carolina Gold Rush

In the early 1800s, gold was discovered in North Carolina, leading to the rush to the region for prospectors looking to strike it rich. Edward N. Hall, a local farmer in McCormick County, SC, was one of the many prospectors and discovered gold in the area around 1827. This discovery led to the Carolina Gold Rush, which lasted until 1848.

2. Civil War Battles

Several Civil War battles took place near Aiken County, including the Battle of Aiken in Aiken, SC, on February 11, 1865. This battle, fought near the end of the Civil War, saw Confederate forces under the command of General Joseph Wheeler attempt to stop Union forces led by General Hugh Kilpatrick from reaching Augusta, Georgia. Ultimately, the Union forces were successful, but the battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides.

3. Hamburg Massacre

The Hamburg Massacre, also known as the Hamburg Riot, was a violent incident that occurred on July 8, 1876, in Hamburg, Edgefield County, SC. The incident arose from tensions between the African American community and the Democratic Party during the Reconstruction era. Six African American men were killed and five others were wounded in what was described as a racially motivated attack.

4. Savannah River Site

The Savannah River Site, located in Aiken, SC, was established in the early 1950s as part of the U.S. nuclear weapons complex. The site played a key role in the development and production of nuclear weapons, and was also used for the disposal of nuclear waste. In recent years, the site has shifted its focus to nonproliferation efforts and environmental management.

5. Brown v. Board of Education

A pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement took place on May 17, 1954, when the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its decision in the case of Brown v. Board of Education, which declared segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional. Though the case itself originated in Topeka, KS, its impact was felt throughout the country, including in Aiken County.

6. Augusta Riot

The Augusta Riot of 1970 was a violent incident that occurred in Augusta, GA, which is just across the Savannah River from Aiken County. The riot was sparked by tensions between African American protesters and law enforcement following the killing of a young black man by a white police officer. The riot resulted in six deaths, numerous injuries, and significant property damage.

7. Hurricane Hugo

On September 22, 1989, Hurricane Hugo made landfall near Charleston, SC, just a short distance from Aiken County. The storm was one of the most intense and damaging hurricanes to hit the United States in the 20th century, causing widespread destruction and resulting in 35 deaths. The impact of the storm was felt throughout the region, and its effects could still be seen in some areas years later.

These events, along with many others, have contributed to the unique cultural and social fabric of Aiken County and the surrounding areas. From the Carolina Gold Rush to Hurricane Hugo, each of these historical moments has had a lasting impact on the region and its people.