South Carolina Atlas

Online Atlas > South Carolina > Museums • Photographs

South Carolina facts and history plus travel and tourism information.

Capital: Columbia
Abbreviations: SC (postal), S.C.
Area: 31,189 square miles
State Bird: Carolina Wren
State Tree: Palmetto
State Flower: Carolina Yellow Jessamine
State Motto: Animis Opibusque Parati - Prepared in mind and resources
Nickname: The Palmetto State

Boone Hall Plantation in South Carolina

South Carolina is a small, diverse state located in the Deep South. From forested mountain scenery in the northwest and the mid-state Piedmont region to the Grand Strand coastline of the northeast and the islands and marshes of the south coast, South Carolina's topography is remarkably varied. The state also features scenic waterways and abundant wildlife as well as antebellum plantations and other historic sites.

Over thirty Native American tribes living in the South Carolina region made European settlement difficult here. Beginning in 1670, British colonists managed to establish Charles Town (Charleston). Following the Revolutionary War, South Carolina joined the Union as the eighth state on May 23, 1788. Almost a century later, the state left the Union and the Civil War began at Fort Sumter. Racial discrimination continued in South Carolina for many years after the Civil War.

From the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west to the beautiful beaches of Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Folly Beach in the east, South Carolina is a popular destination for vacationers. History buffs can find plenty of museums and forts to explore, and tourists also enjoy visiting historic Charleston.

South Carolina Map

South Carolina Links

South Carolina Government - official South Carolina state website.
The Official Tourism Website of South Carolina - South Carolina travel and tourism.
National Parks in South Carolina
South Carolina QuickFacts - from the US Census Bureau.
50States.com - South Carolina

South Carolina Resources