Once Cherokee hunting grounds, the area was opened in 1784 by settlers obtaining grants for Revolutionary War service. Listed on early maps as Craytons, this crossroad became a thriving community in the early 1800s, featuring a store, tavern, public well, and stagecoach stop. Said to be a favorite stopover of John C. Calhoun, the tavern was run by the Hanks, Crayton, and Orr families. A post office was established here in 1828 with Christopher Orr as postmaster. His son, James L. Orr, born here in 1822, later served as Speaker of the U.S. House of Reps. and S.C. Governor. Craytonville was a polling station and center of political activities through the 19th and early 20th centuries. The well, located across the road, has served the community since its beginning.