Exploration and Settlement of South Carolina

Spain

May 1, 1521

Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to explore the coastal regions of present-day South Carolina. In 1521, Francisco Gordillo sailed to the Carolina coast. Spain did not settle the state at that time but they did enslave several dozen Native Americans. Five years later, near present-day Myrtle Beach, another explorer named Vásquez de Ayllón tried to settle the area but was unsuccessful due to bad weather and sickness.

Spain

Apr 17, 1540

Hernando de Soto traveled the Savannah River from Georgia into South Carolina. He was looking for gold and slaves. He and his men encountered Native Americans in South Carolina.

France

Jun 26, 1562

Jean Ribault brought a group of French huguenots to Parris Island. They settled the small colony of Charlesfort, named after the French king, Charles IX.

Spain

Feb 12, 1566

Juan Pardo established Fort San Felipe and the village of Santa Elena on present-day Parris Island. These were two of the first Spanish settlements in South Carolina. He tried to make friends with the Native Americans because he saw how important it was to trade.

England

Aug 14, 1663

Although Hilton Head was first discovered by Spanish explorers in 1521, it was initially founded in 1663 by Captain William Hilton, an English explorer who named the island after himself.

England

Nov 9, 1670

Henry Woodward was the first British colonist of colonial South Carolina. In 1670 he was part of the group, along with Lord Anthony Ashley Cooper, that established Charleston, South Carolina. He tried to have an honest and friendly relationship with the Native American tribes.