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StudySC – Know where you live.

Explore South Carolina through StudySC! Learn about your community, South Carolina history, and the people who have made a significant impact on the state and the world.

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Black and white photograph of Elise Forrest Harleston in glasses, necklace and dress.

Elise Forrest Harleston

Elise Forrest Harleston was South Carolina’s first African-American female photographer.

Cardinal Bernardin wearing gold framed glasses.

Joseph Louis Bernardin

Born in Columbia, SC, Joseph Louis Bernardin was a Cardinal of the Catholic Church who served as archbishop of Chicago from 1982 until 1996.

Harvey Gantt wearing a suit and holding papers.

Harvey Gantt

Harvey Gantt was the first African American student to attend Clemson University when he began classes on February 1, 1963.

Louise Smith in a racecar.

Louise Smith

Louise Smith was known as “the first lady of racing.” Louise Smith was the first professional woman race car driver.

a small white house with a half wrap around porch.

Chester County

Chester County and its county seat, the city of Chester, were named for Chester County, Pennsylvania.

A white house with a gray roof

Williamsburg County

Williamsburg County was probably named for King William III of England (1650-1702). Scotch-Irish and French Huguenot settlers began moving into this part of the Lowcountry around 1732.

A brown brick and white accented church.

Anderson County

Anderson County and its county seat, Anderson, were named for Revolutionary War general Robert Anderson (1741-1812).

A black, white and cream movie theater with red accents on the two windows.

Hampton County

Hampton County and its county seat Hampton were named for Confederate general and governor Wade Hampton (1818-1902).

South Carolina Facts

South Carolina State Work Animal

The hard-working Mule was designated as the official State Heritage Work Animal by Act Number 240 of 2010.  

South Carolina Glossary

A large swirling white cloud in dark blue water.

hurricane

(noun) - a violent storm that originates over the ocean, which is distinguished by sudden extreme changes of the wind and is generally accompanied by rain, thunder, and lightning