Summerville

The Town of Summerville (originally known as Pineland Village) was born in the 1700's and originally served as a respite on "higher ground" for Charlestonians and people in the surrounding areas. The early 1800's marked the arrival of the railroad and many of the trees cleared from the area were used to make the railroad ties for the tracks. The area which was cleared was made into the commercial center and the town was officially incorporated in 1847. In the late 1800's, the International Congress of Physicians declared Summerville among the top two places in the world for treatment of lung disease due to the healing properties thought to result from the turpentine scent of the pine tree. This resulted in a flurry of building to accommodate those coming to seek treatment, many of whom decided to stay permanently.

Each Spring in the early 1900's Summerville was visited by large crowds of people coming to enjoy the beautiful azaleas, camellias and dogwoods. It is no wonder the town was affectionately referred to as "The Flower Town in the Pines". Today, this tradition is carried on in the annual Festival held each April.

With a current population of approximately 30,000, Summerville is the largest town in Dorchester County. Its charm and beauty continue to attract people of all ages looking for the quality of life found in a smaller community. Housing choices range from restored Victorian homes to new construction neighborhoods offering townhomes and single family properties.

Recreational activity opportunities such as football, baseball and soccer are numerous in Summerville and the town offers some of the finest sporting facilities in the area. Summerville Parks

Town of Summerville Website/a>

Dorchester County Schools Website

Private and Parochial School Websites