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The area between the Broad and Saluda Rivers
in South Carolina is commonly known today as the Dutch Fork. It stretches
from Columbia at the junction of the two rivers northward to Newberry with
the two rivers as the east and west boundaries. Settlers reached the area
in the 1730s with the vast majority arriving in 1750 to 1760 with
estimates of 12,000 or more. Most came from southwest Germany and
Switzerland in search of religious, political and personal freedom, and
with the promise of free land. Most arrived in the port city of Charleston
and others came to Philadelphia and made their way south.
South Carolina was originally part of the territory given to the Lords
Proprietors in 1663, but the council petitioned the King of England and
the area became a crown colony in 1721 . In the mid-1700's, Charles Town
was a bustling city on the coast, but native Indians roamed freely in the
upper parts of the area and were not always friendly. King George II of
England was encouraged to promote settlement of the land between these two
groups for a buffer and freely gave land to those who petitioned for it.
Generally, the bounty grants were 50 acres for each family member and
included tools, and food for one year with the stipulation that land be
cleared and farmed.
The people prospered, building their homes and the predominately Lutheran
churches for worship and establishing a seminary for training pastors.
They retained their native language for many years and many variations of
family names are found in Bible, census and legal records. They were known
to be thrifty but generous to neighbors in need. Family gatherings with
food, singing and dancing with a nip or two of the spirits were common.
Some interesting articles and publications about Dutch Fork history and
customs will be added at this site.
NEW!!! Some Basic Misconceptions about Dutch Fork and the Role of Community in a Time of Change
©1985-2017 Dutch Fork Chapter of SCGS, Inc.
Last updated 12 March 2017