Orangeburg County

History of Orangeburg Presbyterian Church, 1835-1935

History of Orangeburg Presbyterian Church, 1835-1935

This manuscript chronicles the early years of the Orangeburg Presbyterian Church, outlining its formation in 1835 and its growth throughout the 19th century. The author focuses on key events, such as the acquisition of church property and the evolution of its membership, which included both white members and enslaved African Americans. The text also details the various organizations within the church, including the Sunday School, the Woman’s Auxiliary, and the Young People’s League, highlighting their contributions to the church’s spiritual well-being and growth. The author’s aim is to present a concise account of the church’s history, emphasizing its significant milestones and the individuals who shaped its development.

History of Orangeburg District South Carolina

Orangeburgh District, South Carolina

The initial settlers in the Orangeburg District were sparse, consisting mainly of Indian traders and random grazers who pursued the untamed grasslands for their cattle herds. The first recorded instance of land ownership belonged to Henry Sterling, a trader who claimed a piece of Lyon’s Creek in 1704. Later, in 1732, John Hearn became the first to settle in what is now Orangeburg City, his property including the current Fairgrounds. The deed for Hearn’s lands was documented on May 28, 1735. The terrain between these pioneering settlers and the coast was almost impossible to navigate, consisting of dense undergrowth and … Read more