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.
Some Basic Misconceptions about Dutch Fork
and the Role of Community in a Time of Change
What is the Dutch Fork? (from Wikipedia)
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©1985-2018 Dutch Fork Chapter of SCGS, Inc.
Send comments and corrections to: David
Smith
Last updated 12 November 2018
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