Picture this a bustling depot in the 19th century. This is Hardeeville South Carolina. It wasn’t always a thriving city. It began as Hardee’s Station a small stop along the Charleston and Savannah Railway. Isaac Hardee a North Carolinian settled the area. His son Whyte William Hardee opened a depot and general store. This humble beginning blossomed into Hardeeville incorporated in 1911.
The Argent Lumber Company once dominated Hardeeville. It boasted one of the world’s largest logging operations. Swamp logging was particularly dangerous. Narrow-gauge railroads transported timber to processing areas. The lumber journeyed across North America. As a thank you for the company’s impact a steam locomotive Argent Lumber Company Number 7 now sits in Hardeeville’s City Hall.
Hardeeville’s growth wasn’t solely fueled by timber. The construction of US Route 17 and Interstate 95 brought new commerce. Motels restaurants and gas stations catered to travelers. The rise of Hilton Head Island as a resort further boosted Hardeeville’s economy. Affordable housing attracted service employees. The city strategically annexed land in the early 2000s. Planned developments sprang up. Hardeeville expanded from 5 square miles in 2000 to over 45 square miles in 2010.
Today Hardeeville is divided into two main areas. Downtown or Historic Hardeeville retains its original charm. Single-family homes and small apartments line the streets. Main Street and Whyte Hardee Boulevard house the commercial centers. New River features large planned developments. Hilton Head Lakes Hampton Pointe now Riverton Pointe Hearthstone Lakes and parts of Sun City Hilton Head are just a few examples. This area experienced most of the population growth since 2005.
Hardeeville continues to evolve. It’s a blend of history and modern development. From its humble beginnings as a railway stop to its current status as a major transportation hub Hardeeville’s story is one of resilience growth and adaptation. Its unique blend of past and present makes it a fascinating place to visit. Remember the legacy of the Argent Lumber Company and its impressive steam locomotive. Explore its charming downtown and the sprawling developments of New River. Hardeeville is more than just a town. It is a testament to the spirit of the Lowcountry.