Hopsewee Plantation

Hopsewee Plantation, overlooking the North Santee River near Georgetown, offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history and culture of South Carolina's Lowcountry. Built circa 1740, the preserved plantation house is the birthplace of Thomas Lynch Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.

Guided tours explore the 18th-century home, much of its original woodwork and architectural details, and stories of the families who owned Hopsewee as well as the enslaved people who lived and worked on the rice plantation. Visitors can learn about the region's early rice culture and the people whose lives shaped Hopsewee and the surrounding Lowcountry.

Beyond the historic house, Hopsewee offers Gullah cultural experiences, the Hopsewee Historic Museum, sweetgrass basketmaking classes, indigo dyeing workshops and seasonal events. At the River Oak Cottage Tearoom, guests can enjoy lunch or a traditional Southern tea surrounded by the beauty of the historic property and North Santee River.

Hopsewee Plantation is open Tuesday through Saturday, with house tours offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the River Oak Cottage Tearoom opening at 11 a.m.