Blythewood Town Hall is located at 171 Langford Road, Blythewood, SC 29016.
Phone: 803‑754‑0501.
Neighborhoods
Originally named Doko [1], meaning "watering place" in Native American or African terms, it was a stop on the Charlotte-Columbia railroad, destroyed by General Sherman in 1865. Rebuilt and renamed Blythewood in 1877 after the Blythewood Female Institute (later Blythewood Academy), the town was incorporated in 1879. The George P. Hoffman House (built 1855), now the town hall, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Location and Accessibility: Located in the Piedmont region, Blythewood is part of the Columbia Metropolitan Statistical Area, about 15 miles north of Columbia via I-77 and U.S. Route 21. It's roughly halfway between Columbia and Charlotte, NC, making it attractive for families seeking small-town living with metropolitan access.
Culture and Attractions: Known for its equestrian culture, Blythewood hosts the University of South Carolina's Equestrian Team and has trained U.S. Olympic equestrian teams. Doko Meadows Park is a central hub with a 2,500-seat amphitheater, trails, and events like the Doko Rodeo, Ribfest, and Film Fest. The town's arts scene includes art shows, holiday markets, and music festivals. The Blythewood Historical Society and Museum offers insights into local history.
Economy and Growth: One of South Carolina's fastest-growing areas, Blythewood emphasizes locally owned businesses and family-centric activities. Scout Motors is building a 1,100-acre factory for electric vehicles, boosting economic prospects. The town supports agriculture through its farmers market and has dining options like Doko Smoked Barbeque and Alexander at Cobblestone Park.
Education and Community: Part of the highly rated Richland 2 School District, Blythewood has schools like Lake Carolina Elementary. Residents describe a tight-knit, southern community with a rural feel, though growth is ongoing. Community events include the Christkindl Market, Oktoberfest, and a Christmas Parade.
Recreation: Beyond Doko Meadows, recreational options include Cobblestone Park Golf Club, Windermere Club, and Three Fox Farm Riding Academy for horseback riding. The town's parks, trails, and equestrian centers cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
Even before its incorporation in 1879, Blythewood's [2] existence was tied to a major thoroughfare. Historically, the railroad served as the lifeline for the town. Even the original name of Doko described the town's role as a "watering place" for the trains passing through the region. With the closing of the depot in 1968, and the completion of I-77 through Columbia, the interstate has replaced the railroad as the catalyst for development, and has had an even greater impact. Both the railroad and the interstate brought commercial development to the center, or "heart" of the town. Commercial activities, such as shops and restaurants, developed to serve not only the residents in the area but travelers who were passing through the town. The interstate has had a greater impact on the town since people can more easily commute to Columbia for work, as well as making travel to other destinations much more convenient.
Blythewood is the mailing address for over 80 square miles of unincorporated Richland County. [3]