Discover Estill: Churches, Local History, and the Bull Durham Center

Estill’s local history can be seen in its churches, an early home, and a former cotton warehouse. It also includes the stories of two similarly named literary clubs and an October Fall Festival.

Churches and Their Dates

The history of Lawtonville Baptist Church dates back to its founding in March 1775. The church is also classified as Late Gothic Revival in architectural style. Estill Presbyterian Church was founded in 1898 and is the second-oldest Presbyterian church in Hampton County; this classification refers to Presbyterian churches in the county. First Estill Baptist Church was founded in September 1890. For the present-day Martin Temple C.M.E. Church, however, the relevant date is the dedication of its current building: it took place on August 16, 1987. When comparing these dates, it is worth distinguishing founding dates from the dedication of a current church building.

The Lawton House: Local History and Literature

The Lawton House was built in 1908 as John Lawton’s home and was one of the first houses in the new town of Estill. From 1913, it housed the Estill Book Club, a private literary club. This sequence links the town’s early development with the later history of an organization: 1908 marks its construction as a home, and 1913 its association with the private club. For a look at Estill that goes beyond church history, this building also offers a glimpse into the town’s development and literary club life.

The Bull Durham Center and Its History

Around 1910, the Bull Durham Center was built as a cotton warehouse. It is known for the Bull Durham tobacco advertisement painted on its brick facade. Its former use as a warehouse and the advertising motif link industrial history with a specific architectural detail. Today, the Center has an exhibition space and a reception hall and is available as a conference center. If you are considering using it for an event, confirm rental availability before your trip.

Museum, Library, and Two Literary Clubs

The Estill Museum is located in the former town hall and jail. If you are planning a visit, check the visiting arrangements locally. The Estill Public Library originated with the Estill Reading Club, which was founded in the 1920s. This club should be distinguished from the Estill Book Club: the latter was a private literary club housed at the Lawton House from 1913. Thus, the similarly named organizations belong to different histories—the Reading Club to the library’s origins, and the Book Club to the Lawton House.

An October Date to Consider When Planning Your Trip

The town of Estill holds a Fall Festival in October. Check the date for the year of your trip before you arrive. When looking for a hotel in Estill, you can weigh your reason for traveling accordingly: if churches and local history are your main interest, focus on the historic buildings; if the festival is your main reason, plan your travel dates around the confirmed date.

Discover more destinations: Hampton-Varnville Airport, Yemassee

Return to the overview of the region: Hampton County.