The name "96" for the area in South Carolina, notably the Ninety Six National Historic Site, originates from an estimated distance calculated by early Charleston traders.
The Historical Genesis of the Name "Ninety Six"
The unique name "Ninety Six" was given by Charleston traders in the early 1700s. These traders estimated that the location was approximately ninety-six miles from the Cherokee village of Keowee. Keowee was a significant Cherokee settlement located in the upper foothills of South Carolina.
This estimation highlights the importance of the site as a crucial point on trade routes connecting the colonial settlements to Native American territories. The name served as a practical reference point for distance during a time when precise mapping was not common.
Here's a breakdown of the key elements regarding the name's origin:
- Originators: Charleston traders
- Time Period: Early 1700s
- Basis of Name: An estimated distance in miles
- Distance: Ninety-six miles
- Destination Point: The Cherokee village of Keowee
- Location of Keowee: Upper South Carolina foothills
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name Given By | Charleston traders |
| When | Early 18th century (1700s) |
| Meaning | Estimated distance in miles |
| The "96" Refers To | Miles from this point to the Cherokee village of Keowee |
| Keowee's Location | Upper South Carolina foothills |
Significance of Ninety Six Today
Today, the area is preserved as the Ninety Six National Historic Site, recognized for its unique historical and archaeological significance. It played a pivotal role in various historical events, including the American Revolutionary War. Its unusual name serves as a direct link to the early colonial and Native American interactions that shaped the region.
