South Carolina’s ports are an integral part of state and local history. Charles Towne was founded in 1670 in order to take advantage of the natural seaport to facilitate trade. South Carolina flourished with the wealth brought in by maritime commerce. To continue that connection, the Ports Authority has helped preserve important pieces of history, including significant structures and property.
Castle Pinckney, the only round-sided fort left in North America, sits in the middle of Charleston harbor and is a constant reminder of the port's position as a powerful seaport. The Ports Authority is helping to fund a construction project that will hopefully protect the endangered fort.
The Bennett Rice Mill façade stands at the center of the S.C. State Ports Authority's Union Pier Terminal in downtown Charleston . The mill, which opened in 1845, is considered one of the finest examples of 19th century American industrial architecture.
Bennett Rice Mill Façade
As part of a more than $12-million mitigation program to offset impacts of port development on the former Navy Base, the Ports Authority is partnering with the Trust for Public Land to preserve Morris Island, site of the famous Civil War battle portrayed in the movie "Glory". In the agreement, the Ports Authority will contribute $1 million to the purchase of the island, which will be protected from future development.
