Dorchester Heritage Center Breaks Ground November 7

Rebecca Collett • October 1, 2025

On Highway 78 just outside of Ridgeville, 81 acres of wetlands, pristine forest, and open green space will soon transform into a landmark destination for residents and visitors. 

A new chapter for Dorchester County’s history begins on November 7, at 10 a.m. with the official groundbreaking of the Dorchester Heritage Center. The ceremony will feature remarks from the South Carolina State Superintendent of Education, who will serve as keynote speaker.


On Highway 78 just outside of Ridgeville, 81 acres of wetlands, pristine forest, and open green space will soon transform into a landmark destination for residents and visitors. The new facility, entrusted to local builder Gilbert + Lee, will be a place where the inland low country's rich history, natural beauty, and sense of community come together.


The approximately 20,000-square-foot center will feature:

  • A state-of-the-art environmentally protected archives vault
  • A genealogy library
  • A 7,000-square-foot museum exhibit hall
  • Event and gathering space
  • A recording studio to capture and preserve the stories of Dorchester County residents


In addition to indoor spaces, the site will include walking trails, green spaces, and event areas designed to connect people to both history and nature.


The Dorchester Heritage Center will stand as a testament to the inland low country's past and a vibrant hub for future generations to learn, gather, and celebrate together.

By Rebecca Collett February 20, 2026
The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce was honored to welcome members of our State Delegation for a Power Hour on Friday morning at Town Council Chambers.
By Rebecca Collett February 18, 2026
Scholarships are available for Dorchester County high school graduates
By Member Submission February 11, 2026
New Antepartum Unit Enhances Comfort, Safety, and Advanced Maternal Care for Lowcountry Families
By Member Submission February 4, 2026
Recognized as a "Best of the Best" catering company
By MEMBER SUBMISSION January 30, 2026
Winning artwork will be featured for first time on a local billboard
By Member Submission January 30, 2026
REV and The Midnight City Band are teaming up on February 16 to throw a Community Appreciation Concert
By Rebecca Collett January 30, 2026
Moving Forward Together with Strong Leadership and Clear Priorities
By Member Submission January 28, 2026
Founded in 1876, Cummins Memorial is the oldest and only African American Episcopal seminary in North America.
By Rebecca Collett January 26, 2026
The Chamber of Commerce was proud to celebrate excellence, leadership, and community impact at our 2025 Member Awards Celebration, presented by Google.
By Member Submission January 21, 2026
Knead Therapy Massage and Bodywork is celebrating its Five Year Anniversary on February 1, 2026!