The story begins with the wealthy and influential Bratton family. Their small family farm was transformed by the prosperity of cotton, and it became a large plantation with many slaves. As the family’s wealth increased, the Brattons became leaders in local society. They began building an impressive estate in the early 1820s to match their high social status.

Many of the buildings were constructed from lumber and bricks cut and made right on the property. The Bratton family lived here until 1910. It was then maintained by tenets and farmers working for the Bratton family until the 1950s, when it was divided and sold. The new owners restored many of the buildings, and by 2001 York County gained possession of much of the land and turned it into a living museum.

The Homestead House, however, is still owned by descendants of the Bratton family and is operated by the York County Culture and Heritage Commission.

Many homes in Brattonsville are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but the plantation became internationally famous when it was used in the filming of the Revolutionary War movie, The Patriot.

Annual special events at historic Brattonsville include the Battle of Huck’s defeat, the Piedmont Pottery Festival, Civil War reenactments, and Christmas candlelight tours.

The Chester City Hall building was constructed around 1890 by Frank Munson of Columbia. The building’s architecture is described as Romanesque Revival because of its elaborate facade and brick design. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a treasure to the Chester community.

As of 2009, a little less than 35,000 people live in Chester County. It was one of seven counties created from the Old Camden Judicial District, which was formed in 1769. Visitors to Chester County can enjoy a day exploring Sumter National Forest, playing a round of golf at the Chester Golf Club, or picnicking at the Landsford Canal State Park.