Sumter Community

Sumter County which encompasses approximately 665 square miles is centrally located in South Carolina.  The town is steeped in tradition and the arts, has excellent school systems, is a great retirement community and is home to Shaw AFB.

History

Sumter was established by English speaking settlers in the 1740´s.  It later got it´s name from one of the greatest generals of the Revolutionary War, General Thomas Sumter.  General Sumter was known as the "Fighting Gamecock".  Thanks to General Sumter´s efforts, when the capitol was moved from Charleston to Columbia, Sumter missed becoming the capitol by one vote.  General Sumter continued to fight for his states rights until his death in 1832.   

Schools

Sumter has some very good public and private schools.  Sumter is divided into two school districts consisting of districts 2 and 17.  Private schools consist of Thomas Sumter Academy, Wilson Hall and Sumter Christian.  For colleges there is Central Carolina Technical College, Morris College and USC Sumter.  With the towns central location there are a number of major universities within 2 to 3 hours.

Sumter Profile and Housing

Sumter has a growing retirement community due to its relatively 4 mild seasons, low cost housing, central location and numerous indoor and outdoor activities.  With an average summertime temperature of 81 degrees and an average annual temperature of 61 degrees there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy year round.  There is fishing, boating and skiing in lakes Moultrie, Marion and Wateree; 30 public parks to enjoy hiking, camping and lazy afternoon picnics; a public pool, 18 tennis courts; numerous golf courses and miles of walking trails.  And don´t forget to visit the world renowned Swan Lake where it is believed to be the only place in the world that is home to all seven species of swans.  Housing in Sumter ranges in price from $90,000 to $700,000 so there is something for everyone.  With approximately 1400 homes on the market, even the most discriminating tastes can find their dream home.

Shaw Air Force Base

Sumter is also home to Shaw AFB and will soon be welcoming the 3rd Army.  Shaw is an integral part of the Sumter community.  As the biggest employer of the area with 5000 active duty and 1400 civilians, Shaw accounts for approximately 33% of the gross revenue in the area.