The town of Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island, off the southeast coast of South Carolina, and in the heart of the state’s Lowcountry. Beaufort is well-known for its deep-rooted Southern traditions and charming atmosphere. The area was first explored by the Spanish in 1514, and later chartered by the British in 1711, and it is in this century that Beaufort began to see major development and prosperity, particularly in the agri-businesses of indigo and rice. The residents of Beaufort also benefited from the growth of cotton in nearby areas.

Today Beaufort has a thriving population of around 13,000 residents, and is at the center of an urban cluster with a population of over 46,000. The cluster includes the rest of Port Royal Island, Lady’s Island, Shell Point, Laurel Bay, and Parris Island. Beaufort attracts many tourists, who, lured by the island’s romantic seaside charm, come to take part in the town’s festivals and events that celebrate the best that Beaufort has to offer in the areas of fine arts and cuisine. The town’s history is also a major point of attraction; Beaufort’s rich Southern history is very much reflected in its modern-day landscape. During the town’s heyday in the production of indigo, rice and cotton, the wealthy merchants and plantation owners of the area built glorious homes and mansions, many of which survive today. Beaufort is the second oldest community in South Carolina, and it is one of the few places in which the entire downtown area is designated as a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Beaufort’s architecture showcases styles ranging from Spanish, French, Colonial, and Revolutionary periods. Among the town’s historic structures are forts, cemeteries, churches, inns, and of course, homes. The area features many Civil War restoration homes, which can be observed by tour, or by simply taking a walk. Living in this historic waterfront community is a dream. The real state market in Beaufort, SC offers an array of homes from expansive mansions in the historic district to new constructions in the surrounding communities.

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