8300 Dorchester Rd Ste B, North Charleston, SC 29418
Hiring the right electrical contractor is essential whether you're selling your home and need a repair addendum, installing a new EV charger, or updating your warehouse's electrical systems. Sure, taking a DIY approach to some tasks isn't a bad idea, but when wiring and electricity are involved, it's always best to rely on licensed, insured electricians in Cottageville, SC. When you need a team of expert electricians with decades of combined experience, no company fills that need quite like Sievert Electrical Contractors LLC.
Here at Sievert Electrical, we've been keeping Cottageville and the Tri-State area powered up since 2016, providing the highest quality electrical services for residential, commercial, and industrial needs. Some of our specialties include:
Unlike other electrician companies in Cottageville, however, we focus on serving customers instead of trying to make an easy buck. As locals in the metro Cottageville community, we know how hard it is to find trustworthy electrical contractors. Like money, they don't just grow on trees. That's why we strive to be the Tri-State area's premier source for reliable electrical contractors who prioritize hard work, fair pricing, and customer service over everything else.
As a locally-owned and operated electrical company, we believe in putting our customers first. We focus on hard work, attention to detail, and stellar customer service to achieve that goal. You won't ever have to worry about unmotivated workers or unreliable service at Sievert Electrical Contractors. Our licensed, insured electricians in cityname, state, are experts in their trade and equipped with the tools to handle all your electrical projects, large or small. From home EV charger installations to upfits for industrial warehouses, we provide peace of mind when you need it most.
At the end of the day, our vision, mission, and values help remind us of what's most important in our industry: you, our customer. As our customer, you can rest easy knowing we'll take all the time needed to fully understand your electrical needs. In learning about your pain points, we can explain the best options to resolve them and provide you with the best service possible. Call us old-fashioned, but we believe in building long-lasting relationships with our customers, whether they're residential or commercial clients. Instead of tricky fine print and awkward upselling, we've built our business on integrity, respect, and customer service. It's really that simple.
By working with our team of licensed electricians, you're giving yourself and your family or employees comfort, knowing that you're getting the best workmanship around. And when you look at our reviews, our customers agree. When you hire the Sievert Electrical team, you benefit from:
It's no secret that you shouldn't play around with electricity. Whether you're building a new pool or installing an EV charging station, hiring an experienced electrical contractor is a no-brainer when your safety is on the line. Why risk your health or a family member's health when you can trust Sievert Electrical to get the job done right the first time out?
Our licensed and insured electricians bring decades of combined experience to the table, as well as:
High-Level Training: Every member of the Sievert Electrical team must undergo rigorous industry training for residential electricians.
Accuracy & Safety: Our technicians excel at attention to detail to ensure your electrical needs are met with care and precision.
Knowledge & Education: Our electricians are happy to share their knowledge with homeowners and go the extra mile to explain the procedures and techniques used to address your electrical issues.
Looking to add value to your home? Installing a spa or pool is a wonderful idea to add to your list. Plus, your backyard barbecues will be much more fun. The process of installing a pool or spa isn't something you can handle on your own, though. You will need a team of experienced electricians in Cottageville, SC to ensure your system is set up correctly. That way, you can enjoy your pool or spa for years to come, and it'll be in great working order when it's time to sell.
Installing a pool or spa is a very involved job that includes more than digging out space for a pool or spa. These units are very complex and have a whole host of electrical needs, from heating units and filters to color-changing lights that wow your guests. Having a professional install these parts is vital. Otherwise, you'll be swimming in a dirty, near-freezing pool or spa.
Hiring Sievert Electrical Contractors guarantees your pool or spa will be in proper working order for years and years.
Finding a reliable EV charging station when you're out and about is still a gamble in this day and age. While EV charger availability is improving, most EV owners prefer to have a charging station installed at home. But doing so is easier said than done and often requires the help of a professional electrician.
If you're like most homeowners, you don't have the proper permit to install your own EV charging station. For that reason alone, you need to rely on a pro who has the right tools and electrical know-how to handle the job. Plus, EV chargers need much more voltage than standard electrical systems you may find in your home. That makes installing these devices much more dangerous than average appliances. Hiring Sievert Electrical Contractors to install your charging station ensures it's completed quickly, correctly, and safely.
South Carolina's hurricane season is nothing to take lightly. Every year, homeowners in the Lowcountry prepare for high winds, heavy storms, and even evacuation. One of the best ways to protect your home and family in the event of a power outage is to purchase a standby or portable generator that can power your home when electricity is out.
At Sievert Electrical, we offer the equipment and electrical services needed to keep your lights on during emergency power outages. As an Authorized Generac dealer in South Carolina, our standby and portable generators can give you the power you need when it matters most. Contact our office today to discuss what type of Generac generator is best for your home or business.
It's always a safe choice to rely on professionals than yourself when electrical matters are involved. That's true for generator installation, too. At Sievert Electrical Contractors, our team uses OSHA and National Electrical Code standards when installing residential and commercial generators. We know how to properly install generators, maintain them, and recommend them depending on your needs.
Because we truly care about your property and your family, we always take great care to operate with safety and efficiency in mind. When we're done, you'll know without a doubt that you made the right choice hiring our electricians in Cottageville, SC
If you're searching for a trusted partner for commercial electric needs, Sievert Electrical Contractors have the tools, talent, and training to address all of your commercial electric issues. Our team has spent years helping professionals in a wide range of industries, from small offices to sizeable warehouses and every kind of commercial enterprise in between.
Without properly working electrical systems, you can't serve your customers. And when you can't serve your customers, you can't put food on the table for your family. That's why, when you own a business, you need a reliable team of electricians to keep your business up and running.
At Sievert Electrical Contractors, we know how important electricity is for your daily operations. We understand that you need every facet of your business to run smoothly so you can focus on making a profit, not working in the dark. That's where we come in.
Are you building a new storefront or physical location for your business? After your foundation is set and the frame is up, it'll start taking shape. But before you can open your doors, you've got to make sure your building is wired with a functional electrical system. Otherwise, you'll be using candles to light your office.
Sievert Electrical Contractors provides the highest quality new construction wiring for your commercial needs. Our wiring projects are always completed by licensed, insured electricians who are masters of the trade. That way, you have confidence knowing your business is in good hands.
With electrical systems, the smallest mistakes often lead to the biggest failures. In worst-case scenarios, you may have to deal with an electrical fire in your new construction building. Trusting professional electricians to handle the job correctly is the best way to keep your property safe and wired correctly.
Here at Sievert Electrical Contractors, one of our many commercial services involves turning working vehicles into vehicles that work for you. Whether you're an electrician or occupy a different profession, our commercial upfit services will help make your workday easier and more productive, so you can be more profitable.
Our commercial upfits help experts with a wide range of issues, including:
Organization: One of the most common complaints we hear from tradespeople and business owners is that their trucks or vans are an organizational mess. Our upfit services help you get organized, so you're not having to toss important tools into the back of your truck.
Efficiency: With our commercial upfits in place, you won't waste time trying to find all those items you had to toss in the back of your truck. Our upfits let you carry more gear, maximize your space, and ultimately be more productive.
Professionalism: When you travel to a client's home or business, you need to present a proper image of professionalism. You'll give the wrong impression if your work van is messy and disorganized.
Don't see the commercial electric service you need? Chances are we can still help. Give our office a call today and let us know about the challenges you're facing. In the meantime, here are some additional commercial services that we offer:
Are you fed up with spending money on new fuses? Do your employees nag you about weird electrical glitches that interrupt their workflow? If so, it's time to call Sievert Electrical. Our team of commercial electricians will diagnose and remediate your electric panel problems quickly and effectively.
Installing or updating the panels in your industrial facility protects you, your co-workers, employees, and your building from electrical fire risks. Electrical panel installation from our electricians in Cottageville, SC is important because it protects your other electrical systems, which prolongs the overall lifespan of your system. Safety is always our top priority at Sievert Electrical Contractors, which is why we believe the right way is the only way to install or upgrade your industrial-grade electrical panels.
Our industrial panel services include:
When it comes to electrical repair services, serving industrial needs is often more comprehensive and complex than those in the residential space.
Industrial electricians must deal with more complex electrical systems. These advanced systems often need different equipment and tools when repairs to industrial-grade elements are required. Unlike residential repairs, in industrial settings, electrical systems are usually custom-made for the facility and include unique parts with higher voltages than in the typical home. And while no electrical issue is good, industrial failures have massive repercussions that can often shut enterprises down when their temperature control, machinery, and automated PLCs are affected.
For those reasons alone, you need the best electric pros to perform industrial-level electric repairs. Fortunately, Sievert Electrical Contractors is here to help. Our industrial electricians have the experience and expertise to tackle the most complicated industrial electric repairs, whether you own a warehouse, medical center, or another type of industrial facility.
Don't leave your home or business in the hands of unqualified handymen or unlicensed contractors. With decades of combined experience, Sievert Electrical Contractors specializes in a wide variety of custom electrical services. We go the extra mile to exceed expectations, because that's how we would want our families treated. Call us today to discover the Sievert Electrical difference.
843-873-6331
Cottageville residents have seen change in their community in the last few years, and now the Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce is ready to encourage more improvements.Frank Santorella, a resident of Cottageville, said he is proud of the small town and wants to showcase its beauty, friendly people, and excellent location.“We want to create a chamber of commerce here. We already have a 501-3C non-profit status, Maryann Blake is serving as our attorney, and we are ready to roll,” said Santorella. “We have...
Cottageville residents have seen change in their community in the last few years, and now the Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce is ready to encourage more improvements.
Frank Santorella, a resident of Cottageville, said he is proud of the small town and wants to showcase its beauty, friendly people, and excellent location.
“We want to create a chamber of commerce here. We already have a 501-3C non-profit status, Maryann Blake is serving as our attorney, and we are ready to roll,” said Santorella. “We have ‘Friends of the Park’ which is comprised of people who helped develop the park into what it is now.” He says there are also plans at the park to install a memorial with engraved bricks to honor veterans. This will be accomplished by applying for grants and accepting donations.
Santorella, who plans to initiate the chamber, will serve as a temporary director. He says he already has seven merchants who are interested in joining.
“We want to make Cottageville a destination. Red Brick Pizza and Beer Garden is the anchor store for starting the chamber,” said Santorella. “It’s a one-of-a-kind business in the entire region. Once the chamber officially opens, we want to pick a member of the chamber and promote that business each week, and once a month promote everyone. There will be a rotation, and this will be good for everybody.”
He went on to say that the brick-and-mortar stores are the life of Cottageville, not the transient businesses. He feels that transient businesses will not want to invest their funds in the chamber, but the stationary businesses are here to stay.
“I think the people of Cottageville will be positively affected by the chamber and will accept it with open arms. Hopefully, this will bring even more businesses our way. Our only option now is to travel to Summerville or Walterboro to purchase some items. That’s between 15 to 20 miles away. Cottageville has a lot of people in the rural areas, and though our local gas stations try hard to serve the needs of the community, it would be nice to have boutique shops here. We already have a new vape store that has a coffee bar. So we are starting off well,” said Santorella.
He is hoping to have the new chamber up and running by the end of the first quarter of 2022.
“There will be a fee for stores to become part of the chamber,” said Santorella, who gathered ideas and patterned the Cottageville chamber after the City of Walteboro’s. “I received ideas on how to structure the fees. They won’t be impressive because social media provides a lot of free advertising. We will have a website and newsletter for the community. We will be out there,” he added.
Anyone interested in joining the new chamber can write to: Greater Cottageville Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 464, Cottageville, SC, 29435. Businesses can also contact Santorella on Facebook at Friends of the Park or call The Vape Stop at 843-701-4262.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Grab a cup of hot chocolate and turn the Christmas tunes on the radio – there are several options for checking out Christmas lights beyond your neighborhood.Enjoy a night with friends and family as you drive through bright shining lights on display in Moncks Corner, North Charleston, Cottageville, and the largest drive-thru holiday light event at James Island County Park.Holiday Festival of Lights – James Island County Park871 Riverland Dr, CharlestonA...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Grab a cup of hot chocolate and turn the Christmas tunes on the radio – there are several options for checking out Christmas lights beyond your neighborhood.
Enjoy a night with friends and family as you drive through bright shining lights on display in Moncks Corner, North Charleston, Cottageville, and the largest drive-thru holiday light event at James Island County Park.
Holiday Festival of Lights – James Island County Park871 Riverland Dr, Charleston
A trip to the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park is a Christmas-time tradition filled with thousands of dazzling lights and displays.
Guests are invited to drive along a three-mile stretch lined with more than 700 light displays each night through December 31. A stop at Winter Wonderland – about halfway through the drive – gives you an opportunity to stretch your legs and view the area’s largest holiday sand sculpture.
You can view shops, search for gifts, or enjoy sweet treats or a cup of hot chocolate. Hop on a train ride for a fun look at light displays or take a stroll through the Enchanted Walking Trail for a fun look at nature-themed light displays.
Santa Claus will meet children each night from November 21 – December 23. Plus, enjoy an array of large greeting cards decorated by students from across the Charleston area.
Ticket prices on a regular night will cost $15 per vehicle if purchased online at HolidayFestivalofLights.com or $20 at the gate. Peak night prices increase to $25 per vehicle online and $30 at the gate.
The 33rd Annual Holiday Festival of Lights is open every evening from November 11 through December 31 from 5:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
The Lights at Park Circle4800 Park Circle, North Charleston
Pack up the car and take a drive or go for a relaxing stroll around North Charleston’s Park Circle to see dozens of Christmas light displays.
Trees, lights, and displays will be shining bright around the circle at the Felix C. Davis Community Center.
City leaders say the lights will shine until New Year’s Day. There is no fee to enjoy the lights.
Bee City Zoo’s Christmas Wonderland of Lights1066 Holly Ridge Ln. Cottageville, SC 29435
On select nights in November and December, guests can enjoy a combination of animals and Christmas lights at Bee City Zoo’s Christmas Wonderland of Lights festival.
Santa Claus will make a special appearance during some nights of the event for a photo opportunity.
Those attending can also attend an ‘Australian Walkabout’ which is included in the price of admission. And for some additional costs, you can enjoy roasting s’mores, ornament decorating, grabbing a cup of hot chocolate, or feeding animals during the festival.
Admission is $12 or you can purchase a combo pass which includes day access to the zoo and entry to the lights at $20. Click here to learn more.
Holiday Lights Driving Tour – Old Santee Canal Park900 Stoney Landing Rd, Moncks Corner
Celebrate the season with family and friends on a driving tour filled with sparkling Christmas lights and displays at Old Santee Canal Park powered by Santee Cooper.
The event runs each night from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. from November 25 – December 30. It will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Admission to the event is $5 per vehicle. Proceeds benefit local charities.
Guests will enter the Holiday Lights Driving Tour at 1 Riverwood Drive in Moncks Corner.
“The beautiful LED lighting displays are powered by 100% Santee Cooper Green Power, which is Green-e Energy certified and meets the environmental and consumer-protection standards set forth by the nonprofit Center for Resource Solutions,” organizers said.
Santee Cooper is also inviting guests to attend its two-night event ‘Holiday in the Park’ on November 24 and 25. You’ll have the chance to meet Santa Claus, enjoy crafts, roast marshmallows, and sample some seasonal foods.
“This event is included with admission to Holiday Lights Driving Tour, which runs through Dec. 30, so you can start your holiday season early at this fun-filled meetup,” said organizers.
To learn more or purchase tickets online, please click here.
Cougar Night Lights – The College of CharlestonNear the corner of George and St. Philip Streets
A holiday tradition that brings a fun and dazzling light show to the College of Charleston’s Cistern Yard and Randolph Hall will light up with the spirit of the season each night, offering a holiday light show featuring festive music and visual performances each half-hour from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
The display will be open to the public beginning December 1 through January 2. It is free to view and this year’s show will include new music and lighting displays.
Visitors can find the Cistern Yard at the corner of George and St. Philip Streets. Public parking garages are available at two nearby locations – the George Street Garage and the St. Philip Street Garage.
Did we miss something? Email us with details about a local Christmas light show.
A record 46.16 percent of Colleton County voters turned out in the Nov. 8 general election, casting 12,773 votes of 27,671 registered voters.Winners were:Probate JudgeREP Ceth Utsey, 98.77%, 8,785Write-In, 1.23%, 109Total 8,894AuditorREP Jeffrey Slocum, 98.91%, 8,770Write-In, 1.09%, 97Total 8,867County TreasurerREP Becky S Hill, 98.83%, 8,882Write-In, 1.17%, 105Total 8,987County Council At LargeREP Bubba Trippe, 62.20%, 7,793DEM Hi...
A record 46.16 percent of Colleton County voters turned out in the Nov. 8 general election, casting 12,773 votes of 27,671 registered voters.
Winners were:
Probate Judge
REP Ceth Utsey, 98.77%, 8,785
Write-In, 1.23%, 109
Total 8,894
Auditor
REP Jeffrey Slocum, 98.91%, 8,770
Write-In, 1.09%, 97
Total 8,867
County Treasurer
REP Becky S Hill, 98.83%, 8,882
Write-In, 1.17%, 105
Total 8,987
County Council At Large
REP Bubba Trippe, 62.20%, 7,793
DEM Hiram EM Davis, 37.65%, 4,717
Write-In, 0.14%, 18
Total 12,528
County Council District 23
REP Scott Biering, 51.75%, 3,306
DEM Art Williams, 48.11%, 3,073
Write-In, 0.14%, 9
Total 6,388
County Council District 45
REP Steven D Murdaugh, 98.69%, 4,899
Write-In, 1.31%, 65
Total 4,964
Soil and Water District Commission
Gary S Herndon, 50.50%, 4,655
Gerald T Mabry, 48.31%, 4,453
Write-In, 1.19%, 110
Total 9,218
School Board District 2
Daryl Erwin, 97.38%, 1,117
Write-In, 2.62%, 30
Total 1,147
School Board District 4
William Bowman Jr, 21.83%, 296
Anna S Bright, 22.05%, 299
Craig Stivender, 55.68%, 755
Write-In, 0.44%, 6
Total 1,356
School Board District 6
Wayne Shider, 41.97%, 504
Lynn Carter Stroble, 57.70%, 693
Write-In, 0.33%, 4
Total 1,201
Capital Project Sales Tax Referendum
Yes, In Favor of the Question, 50.41%, 5,958
No, Opposed to the Question, 49.59%, 5,859
Total 11,817
Town of Cottageville Water and Sewer Referendum
Yes, In Favor of the Question, 47.56%, 117
No, Opposed to the Question, 52.44%, 129
Total 246
Statewide races:
Governor and Lieutenant Governor
REP Henry McMaster/Pamela Evette, 57.07%, 7,159
LIB Bruce Reeves/Jessica Ethridge, 1.13%, 142
DEM Joe Cunningham/Tally Parham Casey, 41.76%, 5,239
Write-In, 0.04%, 5
Total 12,545
Secretary of State
REP Mark Hammond, 62.22%, 7,774
DEM Rosemounda Peggy Butler, 37.74%, 4,715
Write-In, 0.04%, 5
Total 12,494
State Treasurer
REP Curtis Loftis, 81.10%, 8,056
ALN Sarah E Work, 18.57%, 1,845
Write-In, 0.32%, 32
Total 9,933
Attorney General
REP Alan Wilson, 98.05%, 8,736
Write-In, 1.95%, 174
Total 8,910
Comptroller General
REP Richard Eckstrom, 98.68%, 8,720
Write-In, 1.32%, 117
Total 8,837
State Superintendent of Education
GRN Patricia M Mickel, 1.80%, 225
REP Ellen Weaver, 55.81%, 6,977
ALN Lisa Ellis, 2.50%, 312
DEM Lisa Ellis, 39.86%, 4,983
Write-In, 0.04%, 5
Total 12,502
Commissioner of Agriculture
UNC Chris Nelums, 6.69%, 653
GRN David Edmond, 12.34%, 1,204
REP Hugh Weathers, 80.69%, 7,875
Write-In, 0.28%, 27
Total 9,759
U.S. Senate
REP Tim Scott, 61.94%, 7,747
DEM Krystle Matthews, 37.98%, 4,750
Write-In, 0.08%, 10
Total 12,507
U.S. House of Representatives, District 6
REP Duke Buckner, 60.36%, 6,820
DEM James E Jim Clyburn, 39.54%, 4,467
Write-In, 0.10%, 11
Total 11,298
U.S. House of Representatives, District 1
REP Nancy Mace, 58.17%, 730
ALN Joseph Oddo, 0.56%, 7
DEM Annie Andrews, 41.20%, 517
Write-In, 0.08%, 1
Total 1,255
State House of Representatives, District 121
REP Eric J Erickson, 44.96%, 1,984
DEM Michael F Rivers Sr, 55.02%, 2,428
Write-In, 0.02%, 1
Total 4,413
State House of Representatives, District 122
REP Bill Hager, 71.08%, 499
DEM Shedron Hook Williams, 28.92%, 203
Write-In, 0.00%, 0
Total 702
State House of Representatives, District 97
REP Robby Robbins, 69.78%, 4,578
DEM ReZsaun Lewis, 30.19%, 1,981
Write-In, 0.03%, 2
Total 6,561
State House of Representatives, District 116
REP Matt Leber, 74.22%, 593
DEM Chardale Murray, 25.66%, 205
Write-In, 0.13%, 1
Total 799
Watershed Conservation District Willow Swamp
Doug Mixson, 89.72%, 358
Write-In, 10.28%, 41
Total 399
Statewide Constitutional Amendment 1
Yes, 56.91%, 6,470
No, 43.09%, 4,898
Total 11,368
Statewide Constitutional Amendment 2
Yes, 56.62%, 6,640
No, 43.38%, 5,088
Total 11,728
Each month, the principals in Colleton County Schools choose a Teacher of the Month and a Support Staff of the Month. The recipients for September, October and November were recognized at the November 29 Colleton County School Board meeting.Tammy Smyth, Support Staff of the Month, September - Black Street Early Childhood CenterHiram Davis, Teacher of the Month, September - Black Street Early Childhood CenterJulie Withrow, Teacher of the Month, September- Black Street Early Childhood CenterElla Adams, Support Staff...
Each month, the principals in Colleton County Schools choose a Teacher of the Month and a Support Staff of the Month. The recipients for September, October and November were recognized at the November 29 Colleton County School Board meeting.
Tammy Smyth, Support Staff of the Month, September - Black Street Early Childhood Center
Hiram Davis, Teacher of the Month, September - Black Street Early Childhood Center
Julie Withrow, Teacher of the Month, September- Black Street Early Childhood Center
Ella Adams, Support Staff of the Month, October - Black Street Early Childhood Center
Sally Burgis, Teacher of the Month, October - Black Street Early Childhood Center
Julie Hiott, Teacher of the Month, October- Black Street Early Childhood Center
Takesha Jones, Teacher of the Month, November- Black Street Early Childhood Center
Patti Litchfield, Teacher of the Month, November - Black Street Early Childhood Center
Barbara Gilbert, Support Staff of the Month, November - Black Street Early Childhood Center
Amy Cook, Teacher of the Month, November - Bells Elementary School
Andrea Brown, Support Staff of the Month, November - Bells Elementary School
Shelley Ann Griffiths, Teacher of the Month, September - Colleton County Middle School
Victoria Reed, Support Staff of the Month, September - Colleton County Middle School
Danielle Van Hulst, Teacher of the Month, October - Colleton County Middle School
Janice Wright, Support Staff of the Month, October - Colleton County Middle School
Elizabeth Purvis, Teacher of the Month, August - Forest Hills Elementary
Erica Grant, Teacher of the Month, September - Forest Hills Elementary
Monica Adams, Support Staff of the Month, September - Forest Hills Elementary
Dustin Fitch, Teacher of the Month, October - Forest Hills Elementary
Debbie Fryar, Support Staff of the Month, October - Forest Hills Elementary
Ashleigh Cook, Teacher of the Month, October - Cottageville Elementary School
Doris Simmons, Support Staff of the Month, October - Cottageville Elementary School
Sarah Fielder, Teacher of the Month, November - Cottageville Elementary School
Lynn Jennings, Support Staff of the Month, November - Cottageville Elementary School
Mallory Beach, Teacher of the Month, November - Northside Elementary School
Angela Crosby, Support Staff of the Month, November - Northside Elementary School
Heather Mushrush, Teacher of the Month, September - Colleton County High School
Jarred Boan, Teacher of the Month, October - Colleton County High School
Isaac Agina, Teacher of the Month, November - Colleton County High School
Amy Kilpatrick, Support Staff of the Month, September - Colleton County High School
Jarvis Pruitt, Support Staff of the Month, October - Colleton County High School
Gwen Koger, Support Staff of the Month, November - Colleton County High School
Dinah Bryant, Teacher of the Month, November - Hendersonville Elementary School
Calvin Gantt, Support Staff of the Month, November - Hendersonville Elementary School
Palmer Hudson, Teacher of the Month, November - Colleton Adult Learning Center
Haley Jones, Support Staff of the Month, November - Colleton Adult Learning Center
“Hold still, little bird,” I muttered to myself as I squinted through the viewfinder of my camera. Despite my command, the bird refused to stay put on the branch as I tried to focus long enough to release the shutter. With a click I was the owner of yet another high-definition digital photo of … an empty tree branch.The object of my frustration on this day is a bright yellow prothonotary warbler, a migratory songbird that thrives in the flooded woodlands of the swampy rivers of the South Carolina Lowcountry....
“Hold still, little bird,” I muttered to myself as I squinted through the viewfinder of my camera. Despite my command, the bird refused to stay put on the branch as I tried to focus long enough to release the shutter. With a click I was the owner of yet another high-definition digital photo of … an empty tree branch.
The object of my frustration on this day is a bright yellow prothonotary warbler, a migratory songbird that thrives in the flooded woodlands of the swampy rivers of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Wintering in South America, the prothonotary warbler can be found in spring and summer in the Carolinas where breeding pairs can be spotted in trees along the riverbank or deep in the swamp. Its song is a bright twee-twee-twee-twee and as it darts among the low branches above the black water of a swamp, it seems to almost demand a photo.
This spring morning, as I paddle a quiet stretch of the Edisto River, a warbler darts among the branches of a low willow hunting snails and insects. With its yellow colors flashing like a lightning bug in daytime, I am compelled to stop once again and fill the memory card on my camera with photos of tree branches in an obsession that seems to amuse the little bird. Finally, both of us are relieved as I obtain a photo or two and both of us depart satisfied from the encounter.
The subject of my photo lives with others of his kind along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Edisto River that you can ever see. The Edisto River is the longest river system contained entirely in South Carolina. Rising from Saluda and Edgefield counties, the Edisto corkscrews 250 miles along the Lowcountry to the sea and forms the “E” of the critical ACE Basin water system.
Artesian wells and crystal clear springs bubble from the limestone bedrock along the upper river and near the coast it becomes a rich, blackwater river where deep swamps open to salt marsh horizons. To spend time kayaking or boating along the Edisto is to experience a special paradise on earth.
This section of warbler-haunted Edisto described above runs approximately seven miles from Good Hope Landing to Sullivan’s Ferry near Cottageville. Good Hope Landing is a beautiful, easily accessible boat landing that allows you easy access to the river. Its 10-foot sandy bluff is crowned by a majestic live oak and the river here is wide and relatively straight.
As the current carries you along you can spot an abundance of wildlife. Egrets and herons wade in the shallows, songbirds (including prothonotary warblers) inhabit the trees and in the water, terrapin, gar and even the elusive alligator can be spotted. The river is filled with redbreast bream, catfish and bass — making this a popular as a destination for anglers.
A few miles downstream there is a narrow portion, where willows grow close and fallen trees can snag unwary boaters or those floating along in innertubes, a favorite summer pastime for hundreds of visitors every year. At four miles, you will pass Long Creek Landing, another serviceable launching location, and shortly after will pass beneath the highway bridge of U.S.-17A at the privately owned Jellico’s Landing.
Up to this point, the Edisto has been wild and scenic with few houses or other reminders of human habitation. From the bridge at Jellico’s, well-sited river houses and cottages line the river and form the community of Sullivan’s Landing. Dating from at least as far back as 1820, Sullivan’s was one of many such river crossings in the Lowcountry before bridges and modern highways took hold. The 1820 record of the South Carolina state legislature reveals that the toll for Sullivan’s Ferry was “for every two-horse carriage, 50 cents … horse and rider, 10 cents, and 5 cents for every foot passenger and head of horses, mules, cattle, sheep, goats and hogs …”
Recently, I kayaked from Good Hope to Sullivan’s Ferry with a group of friends and we found the old ferry site to be far quieter that it might have been in 1820. We enjoyed a beautiful spring day with the smooth Edisto reflecting the deep blue of a sky filled with lazy clouds. Recent rains had raised river levels and we enjoyed exploring side channels into coves of swampy flooded forest and hidden oxbow lakes.
After many hours leisurely exploring and encountering wildlife, we arrived at Sullivan’s Ferry for the journey home. We were all of the opinion that this section of the Edisto River was the most beautiful we had ever encountered — and I am certain that you will feel the same way. Should you chance to encounter a little yellow bird in a willow tree, I am certain he will share his opinion of the river, too.
Good Hope Landing and Sullivan’s Ferry Landing are both located near Cottageville and are only a little over an hour’s drive from the Beaufort area. To get there, take Interstate 95 or U.S.-17-A to Walterboro and stay on 17-A to Cottageville. In Cottageville, turn left onto Pierce Road. At 4 miles, turn right onto State Road S-15-35 to the dead end at Good Hope Landing. Sullivan’s Ferry is located at the end of Sullivan’s Ferry Road approximately 3 miles from Cottageville just off 17-A. Both landings are managed by the South Carolina DNR and are well-maintained. There are no facilities, so pack accordingly.
The river in this section is swift when the water is up but very easy to manage, despite a few areas of overhang and snags. Careful preparation and good company will ensure you have a safe, enjoyable day on the water.
For more information, visit the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail site at https://ercktrail.org or obtain a detailed map at https://www.dnr.sc.gov/water/river/edisto-guide.html
