Town of Beaufort
Best Things to Do in
Beaufort South Carolina

Museum and Arsenal

In the Low Country of South Carolina the Town of Beaufort has carefully protected a vast amount of historically significant buildings and artifacts. This has allowed the city to share their rich past with visitors.

One of Beaufort South Carolina attractions that I found to be extremely interesting was the Beaufort Museum and Arsenal. This is located in the historical district of Beaufort SC on Craven Street.

Using brick and tabby the volunteer militia erected this structure in the late 1700s. The Town of Beaufort was vulnerable to attacks by foreign sailors, pirates and Native Americans. The Yemmassee fought fiercely with the troops at this Arsenal during these long ago years.

South Carolina Attractions Have History!

The Beaufort Volunteer Artillery is recognized as one of the oldest of all American military groups. The community created this organization of troops in 1775 in hopes that they would be able to fend off the enemy and keep the population safe. These troops became the group responsible for building the Arsenal in the Town of Beaufort SC.

Construction began in 1795 and it continued until 1798. The original Arsenal could house 250 soldiers and it had a total of 6 large cannons.

The large, sprawling structure was updated in 1865 because it was in such ill repair. In 1934 it was renovated once more but it still looks very much the way it did in 1865. The polished hardwood floors and arched windows add to the building's charm.

Troops at the Beaufort Arsenal became part of many US battles; from the Revolutionary War through the Spanish American years. This museum is considered one of America's Treasures and is one of South Carolina attractions you will want to visit if you’re in Beaufort SC.

What's At This Beaufort SC Museum Today?

Today the Beaufort Museum and Arsenal gives visitors a detailed look at more than 200 years of history. You can visit the site any day except Wednesdays or Sundays. This is just one of many historical landmarks in Beaufort South Carolina.

I did not expect to see very many exhibits because the museum itself it rather small but I was surprised by the number of displays. The history lessons started at the entrance where approaching visitors are welcomed by brass cannons. These artillery pieces were used in the Revolutionary War.

Inside the museum are uniforms, weapons, letters, crafts and photos that document the early years of this coastal region of Beaufort South Carolina. There are artifacts from local Native American tribes and some items that date back to the times of slavery. I enjoyed the descriptions available at each of the exhibits. The staff is also very helpful if you have any questions.

Movie buffs will enjoy the site because the interior of the museum was used as a setting for one of the scenes in “The Prince of Tides”. The Town of Beaufort is a setting for many motion pictures but this one is very unique.