Hobcaw Barony - History

History

In 1718, John, Lord Carteret was given a royal grant of 12,000 acres (49 km2) barony on Hobcaw Point at the southern end of Waccamaw Neck. In 1766 and 1767, the tract was surveyed and sold in several parcels. These were developed into about a dozen rice plantations that contributed to Georgetown County's substantial rice production between the American Revolution and the Civil War. After the Civil War, rice production decreased due to freeing the slaves and increased production of rice in Louisiana. Barnard Baruch acquired the tract and additional land in three purchases from 1905 to 1907 to be developed as a winter hunting resort. Although rice was no longer cultivated, the canals and embankments were retained to provide an attractive environment for waterfowl. Starting in 1935, Baruch transferred parts of Hobcaw Barony to his daughter, Belle Baruch. She built a house and stable complex, Bellefield Plantation, and a small airport. She acquired much of the tract in 1943.

In 1956, Bernard Baruch established the Bernard M. Baruch Foundation to perpetuate the Hobcaw Barony as an educational institute for forestry and marine biology. After Belle Baruch's death in 1964, the foundation's name was changed to the Belle W. Baruch Foundation. Bernard Baruch died in June 1965.