According to Countryaah, Barnwell County, South Carolina is a small but diverse county located in the western part of the state. The county is home to a population of just over 22,000 people who are spread out among its seven townships, which include Blackville, Barnwell, Williston and Elko.
The majority of the population in Barnwell County is made up of White Americans (58.7%) followed by African American (37.3%), Hispanic or Latino (2.4%), Asian (1.2%), Native American (0.7%), and other races making up 0.6% of the total population.
In terms of age groups, the largest group in Barnwell County is those aged 25-44 at 24%, followed by those aged 45-64 at 21%, 18-24 at 17%, 65 and over at 15%, 5-17 at 13% and 0-4 at 10%. The median age for residents in Barnwell County is 38 years old which is slightly lower than both the state and national averages.
The median household income for Barnwell County is $40,381 which is significantly lower than both the state ($68,843) and national ($65,951) averages but still above average when compared to other counties in South Carolina. The poverty rate for Barnwell County stands at 20% which is higher than both the state (11%) and national (11%) averages as well as being higher than most other counties within South Carolina itself.
In terms of education levels, around 80% of residents aged 25 or older have obtained a high school diploma or GED while 19% have obtained some college education or an associate’s degree with 5% having obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification such as a master’s degree or doctorate degree.
Barnwell County offers its residents an enjoyable quality of life with plenty to do from outdoor activities such as hiking and camping to more cultural pursuits such as visiting museums and galleries or enjoying some local cuisine from one of the many restaurants located throughout the county’s townships.
History of Barnwell County, South Carolina
Barnwell County, South Carolina was established in 1785 and is named after John Barnwell, an early settler of the area. The county was originally part of the larger Orangeburg District which was created in 1769. In its early days, Barnwell County was mainly used for farming and cattle raising by the local settlers.
During the American Civil War, Barnwell County served as a major base for Confederate troops who were defending South Carolina against Union forces. In 1865, Union troops under General William T. Sherman marched through Barnwell County during his infamous ‘March to the Sea’.
In the years following the Civil War, Barnwell County experienced a period of economic stagnation due to a lack of investment and infrastructure in the area. However, this began to change in the early 20th century when new industries such as textile mills and lumber operations were set up in the county. This helped to create jobs for local residents and boost economic activity in the area.
In recent years, Barnwell County has continued to develop with new businesses being established throughout its townships such as Blackville, Barnwell and Williston. These businesses have helped to create jobs for local residents while also providing additional services such as restaurants and entertainment venues which have helped to improve the quality of life in the county.
Today, Barnwell County is still largely rural but it has managed to retain its traditional charm while also embracing modernity through its various businesses and cultural attractions which make it an enjoyable place for both visitors and residents alike.
Major cities and towns in Barnwell County, South Carolina
Barnwell County, South Carolina is comprised of several small cities and towns which are located throughout the county. The largest city in the county is Barnwell, which serves as the county seat and is home to around 4,000 people.
The town of Blackville is located in the northern part of Barnwell County and has a population of around 1,500 people. This small town is mostly known for its historic buildings and landmarks such as the Blackville Methodist Church which was built in 1820.
Williston is another small city located in Barnwell County with a population of around 2,000 people. This town is home to several historic buildings such as the Williston Presbyterian Church which dates back to 1842 and the Old Williston Town Hall which was built in 1889.
Elko is another small town located in Barnwell County with a population of around 1,200 people. This town was founded by Dr. John Elko who arrived here from Germany in 1883 and established a large cotton plantation near his homestead. Today, Elko still remains largely rural but it has managed to retain its traditional charm with many old homes still standing throughout the area.
Snelling is a very small unincorporated community located in Barnwell County with a population of only around 200 people. Despite its size, this community still retains its rural charm with many old homes still standing throughout the area as well as several churches such as Snelling Baptist Church which dates back to 1865.
Kline is another unincorporated community located in Barnwell County with a population of only around 100 people. This small community was originally established by German settlers who arrived here from Pennsylvania in 1735 and it has managed to retain its rural charm ever since then despite its size and lack of development over the years.
Population in Barnwell County, South Carolina
According to existingcountries.com, Barnwell County, South Carolina is home to a population of around 26,500 people. The majority of the population (63.9%) is comprised of African Americans and the remainder of the population is made up of White (30.6%), Hispanic (2.4%), Asian (1.3%) and other races (2.7%). The median age for those living in Barnwell County is 39 years old and the median household income is $39,225 per year.
The largest city in Barnwell County is the county seat, Barnwell, which has a population of around 4,000 people. Other cities in the county include Blackville with a population of 1,500 people and Williston with a population of 2,000 people. There are also several small towns located throughout the county such as Elko with a population of 1,200 people and Snelling with a population of only 200 people.
The unemployment rate in Barnwell County is 5% which is lower than the national average and most inhabitants are employed in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare and retail trade. Education is also an important part of life here with many students attending schools within Barnwell County or nearby counties such as Aiken or Bamberg Counties.
Barnwell County also has many attractions that draw visitors from all over including Hunting Island State Park where visitors can enjoy camping, hiking trails, fishing spots and wildlife viewing opportunities; Civil War sites such as Fort Buford; historic churches like Blackville Methodist Church; local festivals like The Barnwell Peanut Festival; and outdoor activities such as golf courses at Pine Ridge Country Club or kayaking on Little Salkehatchie River.
