Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site preserves the remains of Dorchester, a colonial inland port on the Ashley River near present-day Summerville. Founded in 1696 by settlers from Dorchester, Massachusetts under Reverend Joseph Lord, the town grew around its church and prospered through river and overland trade, Native American commerce, and rice and indigo cultivation. Though small, it became an active commercial center and later held strategic military importance during the Revolution. Notable survivals include the bell tower of St. George’s Anglican Church and Fort Dorchester, a well-preserved tabby fort. After British occupation and fighting in 1781, the town declined and was eventually abandoned.

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