North Charleston

On April 1, 1670, English settlers established Charles Towne, the first permanent European settlement in present-day South Carolina, located near what is now North Charleston. The settlement became the first capital of South Carolina. Charles Towne was important in the early economic and political life of the colony, serving as a major port and trade center.

On June 28, 1776, the Battle of Sullivan's Island took place near Charleston, South Carolina, which included the area that is now North Charleston. During this battle, the American forces repelled a British naval attack. This victory was significant in boosting American morale during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War, showcasing American fortitude and tactical acumen.

On February 18, 1865, during the American Civil War, Union forces finally took control of Charleston, South Carolina, including the surrounding areas such as present-day North Charleston. The Confederate Army had evacuated the city. Charleston was one of the last major Confederate cities to fall into Union hands, marking a significant step towards the end of the Civil War.

North Charleston was incorporated on November 9, 1912. This date marks its establishment as an independent city. The incorporation was important because it marked the beginning of North Charleston as an industrial hub, setting the stage for extensive growth in manufacturing and military sectors in the following decades.

In 1941, the Naval Base Charleston was established near North Charleston, contributing significantly to the local economy and playing a key role during World War II. The base became a major site for shipbuilding, repair, and supplying naval forces, driving economic growth and population surges in the region.

The construction of Interstate 526, a vital economic and transportation link in South Carolina, was completed on July 1, 1972. This interstate passes through North Charleston, facilitating regional commerce and development. The interstate has been integral in reshaping the economic landscape of North Charleston, improving access and connections to surrounding areas.

On December 11, 1975, Northwoods Mall opened to the public in North Charleston. It became one of the largest shopping centers in the area, contributing to the economic development by attracting numerous businesses and consumers. The mall helped establish North Charleston as a commercial center in South Carolina, offering various retail, dining, and entertainment options.

In 1990, Boeing inaugurated its operations in North Charleston, significantly boosting the local economy. Boeing's presence turned North Charleston into a key player in the aerospace industry, creating thousands of jobs and fostering an industrially oriented community. The introduction of Boeing has been a transformative event in the economic development of North Charleston.

The North Charleston Coliseum opened on August 17, 1996. It became a premier venue for sports, concerts, and events in the region, attracting numerous visitors and bringing added cultural significance to North Charleston. The coliseum has hosted various major events, enhancing the city's reputation as a cultural and entertainment hub.

On June 17, 2015, a tragic mass shooting occurred at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in downtown Charleston, near North Charleston. This horrific hate crime, where nine African American churchgoers were killed during Bible study, shocked the nation and brought international attention to issues of racism and gun violence in the United States.