Clemson Real Estate
Clemson is undoubtedly one of the most fun and exciting areas of Upstate South Carolina. It’s 7.9 square miles of pure, foothill enchantment. Its population of 18,364 residents ranges from young professionals to new families; from successful Clemson University alumni to content retirees. Of course, many people know Clemson for its highly successful football team and engineering and agricultural programs. But Clemson has a reputation for sports, academics, and an overall exceptional quality of life for its full-time residents. The scenery and nostalgia of the historic campus, the three surrounding lakes, and the gorgeous Appalachian Mountain backdrop are just a few of the many different reasons tens of thousands of people hold a very special place in their hearts for the city of Clemson.
History
Clemson was founded by Thomas Green Clemson in 1889 after he married the daughter of former U.S. Vice President, John C. Calhoun. This small town actually started as the Town of Calhoun in the late 1800s but changed its name to Clemson when the town was incorporated in 1943.
Initially an all-male military school, Clemson was called Clemson Agricultural College in 1893. The surrounding farmland was made of such fertile soil, that the school’s research in agriculture took off and remains one of its most prominent educational and research initiatives today. Clemson became coeducational in 1955, then officially became Clemson University in 1964, and has progressed to become one of the leading research facilities in the country.
In the 1940s, researchers at Clemson worked on the “Cheese Research Project,” and perfected the process of blue cheese production. Clemson Blue Cheese is now a staple of the area and it’s seriously some of the best blue cheese you will ever have the pleasure of eating. You can purchase this renowned cheese online or at the famous 55’ Exchange on campus.
Scenery
Clemson is very fortunately surrounded by three of the most picturesque lakes in South Carolina. Lakes Keowee, Hartwell, and Jocasee all neighbor this scenic part of the Upstate, drawing many visitors to the area, especially in the summer. These lakes offer many square miles of natural beauty for fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, or simply sitting and sipping sweet tea on the shoreline. Lake-life relaxation and southern charm are abundant any time of the year in Clemson’s temperate climate with fantastic landscape views.
The South Carolina Botanical Garden located just on the edge of Clemson University’s campus, is one of the best and most diverse in the country. The 298 acres of walking trails, botanical diversity, and historic landmarks are breathtaking, family-friendly, and 100% free.
The scenery of Clemson’s campus shouldn’t be overlooked either. The historic Tillman Hall is a three-story brick bell tower perched atop the famous Bowman Field and is rich in both beauty and history. The view from the Carillon Gardens at the top of the hill looks out on the lively scene of the Clemson Ampitheater, library reflection pond, bridge, and Cooper Library itself. It’s one of the most beautiful campus scenes regardless of the season. And you certainly don’t want to miss the view of Death Valley Stadium. Not only do you see some of the most exciting football on the East Coast, but the scenic backdrop of Clemson’s campus, Lake Hartwell, forests of the foothills, and the Blue Ridge Mountains on the horizon enhance the landscape and the overall Clemson Tiger experience.
Community
Clemson is not just an exceptional place for college students to come together and bond during proactive research and charitable pursuits. It’s also one of the best areas to start/raise a family and one of the best areas to retire. It’s simply one of the greatest places for anyone to live in the entire state.
The uplifting suburban atmosphere is unmatched. There are countless bars and public parks to meet friends and to take the family. It’s a social community that students, young professionals, new families, retirees, and many Clemson University alumni are proud to call home. It’s a joyful, spirited place with a college campus like no other at its epicenter. Here in Clemson, the Blue Ridge yawns its greatness and you’ll find it’s a memorable place that’s difficult to leave behind.