Early 19th century. In 1819, the first steamboat came up river, and along with it a burst of prosperity because of expanded trade. Cheraw was incorporated as a town in 1820.

Who founded Cheraw SC?

Most of the town of Cheraw's early settlers were English, Scots, French, and Irish. Two of the earliest of these were James Gillespie and Thomas Ellerbe who started a trading center and water mill at the Cheraw Hills around 1740. Welsh Baptists later made their way up-river, too.

What is the history of Cheraw South Carolina?

Cheraw has been the official name since the town's incorporation in 1820. During the Revolution, Cheraw was the center of a terrible civil war. The town was held at various times by both the British and the American partisans, and St. David's church was used by both armies as a hospital.