From its black-water rivers and coastal views to its pristine forests and vast swamplands, Georgetown County is a place deserving of exploration for its natural beauty, rich culture and historic significance. It is a jewel situated between the Waccamaw River and the Atlantic Ocean, where families thrive in quiet comfort and visitors pause to discover this relaxed county that encompasses a historic seaport, meandering rivers, wildlife-filled tidal creeks and century-old rice plantations. Whether it’s feasting at a seafood restaurant, touring historic buildings, shopping its quaint waterfront or enjoying its flora and fauna, Georgetown County has all that’s necessary to nurture the soul and quiet the spirit.

Established | Incorporated in 1868.

Origin of name | Georgetown County was named after Britain’s King George II, who was the monarch at the time.

What’s grand about it | Pristine beaches, diverse landscape, rich history dating back to colonial times and Harborwalk, a waterfront destination.

Major events | Winyah Bay Heritage Festival, Brookgreen Gardens’ Diggin’ It Spring Garden Expo, Pawleys Island Festival of Music, and Art and Wooden Boat Show.

Major employers | Georgetown County School District, Georgetown Hospital Systems and International Paper Co.

What’s new | The county has completed a number of parks and recreation projects, including a baseball/softball complex on U.S. 521, west of the city. The facility accommodates tournaments for all groups as well as provides improved facilities for county residents.

Property tax | Between 55.5 mills and 92.1 mills, depending on the fire service area a resident lives in.

Numbers to know

Planning and Zoning | 129 Screven St., Georgetown, 843-545-3158

Old County Courthouse | 129 Screven St., Georgetown

New County Courthouse | P.O. Box 479, 401 Cleland St., Georgetown

County administrator | Sel Hemingway, 716 Prince St., Georgetown, SC 29440, 843-545-3006

Council chairman | Johnny Morant, P.O. Drawer 437, Georgetown, SC 29442

Councilmember | Jerry Oakley, P.O. Box 1005, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, 843-222-7457

Councilmember | Ron Charlton, P.O. Box 1998, Georgetown, SC 29442, 843-546-2200

Councilmember | Leona Myers-Miller, 607 Powell Road, Georgetown, SC 29440, 843-546-9642

Councilmember | Lillie Jean Johnson, 906 N. Merriman Road, Georgetown, SC 29440, 843-546-6307

Councilmember | Austin Beard, 603 S. Farr Ave., Andrews, SC 29510, 843-264-8705

Councilmember | Bob Anderson, 201 Inverness Drive, Pawleys Island, 29585, 843-545-3058