South Carolina Realtors
Real Estate Newsletter
Receive all the latest information on Lowcountry Real Estate.
IT'S FREE! SIGN UP TODAY
GO!
| |
|
|
Below the Broad River, towns such as Bluffton and Okatie are seeing unprecedented growth.
|
|
|
Just a few years ago, the land between I-95 and Hilton Head Island along US-278 was little more than dense forest. Dotted along the way might be one or two communities, and there was, of course, the then-sleepy town of Bluffton.
Then, about a decade ago, the area simply exploded. The area’s prime location, convenient to Savannah, Hilton Head and Beaufort, created the perfect jumping off point for development.
Now, Bluffton and Okatie are some of the most vibrant and fast-growing areas in the state. Bluffton has been very careful to balance new growth with environmental considerations, and it has paid off with an area rich in cultural opportunities and ample space for those looking to set down roots.
Across the bridge from one of the planet’s finest resorts lies of one of its most unique communities. From the majestic May River (and the barbecues that tend to spring up on its sandbars) to awe-inspiring antebellum plantation homes to its proudly quirky arts community, Bluffton blends old and new like nowhere else.
Like the towering bluff over the May River for which it is named, Bluffton stands head and shoulders above most Lowcountry towns in terms of history, potential, and growth. Bluffton has exploded in population and size, thanks to vigorous annexation of outlying properties. In just a few short years, this classic Southern town has blossomed into one of the fastest growing residential areas in the state of South Carolina.
Similar in origins and history to its neighbor across the river, Hilton Head, Bluffton began as a summer home for nomadic Native Americans who came in search of comfortable climates and abundant shellfish, crab, and oysters offered up by nearby coastal marshes.
In the early 19th century, wealthy planters from around the state flocked to “Bluff Town” to partake in the luxurious breezes that swirled and danced off of the May River, discouraging insects.
Bluffton’s road access to Charleston and Savannah and coastal locations made it a trade hotspot for farmers shipping their goods to cities up and down the coast and abroad. This trade spurred tremendous growth, and in 1852, the town officially incorporated as “Bluffton.” Over time, the town’s reputation as a trading post would be eclipsed by its role in fostering secessionist thought.
According to legend, disgruntled planters from Bluffton would meet at what is now called the Secession Oak to air their grievances with federal trade policies. Their discussions would eventually spawn a rebellious ideology that would come to be known as the “Bluffton Movement.” This radical new movement would soon spread across the South, encouraging secession by planters and farmers and setting the stage for the “War of Northern Aggression.”
Within 16 years, the tensions reflected in the Bluffton Movement boiled over, and the first shots of the war rang out in nearby Fort Sumter. Union troops, recognizing Bluffton as the birthplace of the secessionist movement, razed the town and burned many buildings, churches, and more than 30 homes. Along with these buildings, most of the town’s archives went up in flames, all but erasing Bluffton’s rich history. What we know now about Bluffton’s past has been painstakingly pieced together from letters, state records, and family stories.
The few buildings to escape the Northern torches were built upon once the war ended, silent survivors of history’s brutality. One such home, and perhaps the most famous, is the Heyward House. Believed to have been built in 1840, this stately reminder of a bygone era, appropriately enough, currently serves as home for the Bluffton Historical Preservation Society. The Society has made great strides in protecting Bluffton’s cherished history as the town builds toward the future.
And that future looks brighter with every expansion the town completes. Through annexations and wise town management, Bluffton’s borders have spread to encompass nearly everything along U.S. 278 straight up to the J. Wilton Graves bridge onto Hilton Head. Still, as grand in scale as Bluffton becomes, the heart of the town remains the one square mile of downtown Bluffton.
This “historic district” has helped foster yet another radical movement: a quirky, whimsical attitude that’s come to be known as “The Bluffton State of Mind.” Born of the relaxed creativity of its eccentric population, this mixture of art, performance, and culture is helping to redefine Bluffton.
All one needs to do to experience this “state,” where “formal wear” can include a tuxedo jacket and swim trunks, is take a stroll down Bluffton’s famous Calhoun Street.
Calhoun Street hosts a variety of festivals and parades, all of which celebrate the unique Bluffton State of Mind. From “Ugliest Dog” contests to the “Dancing Bubbas,” whose hilarious antics and casual approach to personal hygiene always entertain the crowds at village parades, a Bluffton event is sure to deliver the unexpected.
Recently adopting a town manager style of government, Bluffton has the people and pieces in place to face its exciting future while preserving its history and charm. Several planned developments now line the U.S. 278 corridors, offering residents everything from golf and tennis to horseback riding and riverfront views. Major retailers such as Home Depot, Wal-Mart and Target have also made a home in Bluffton and are joined by several outlet malls, shopping centers and restaurants. And of course, the beaches of Hilton Head are just minutes away, making Bluffton an ideal place for many to call home.
Some of the most exciting development in the area has taken place along the Buckwalter Parkway. New neighborhoods spring up along the corridor, it seems, every day. Residents along the Buckwalter Parkway enjoy easy access to Bluffton’s schools and new commercial developments that include a brand new movie theatre.
Lately, progress has been the order of the day, and town leaders have been working hard to create a Bluffton Parkway linking various sections of this bustling community together.
Farther north, in Okatie, development has included several new commercial districts and neighborhoods. Trading on the natural beauty along the Okatie River, this region is home to various neighborhoods that exult in outdoor activities.
There’s no telling how big this region will become in the coming years. Its location, infrastructure and natural beauty assure that it will continue to draw new residents, and smart development policies promise it will continue keeping an eye on preservation
|
|
|
|
