Chapin Info: Downtown Chapin is reminiscent of a quiet southern town. However, the area is actually one of South Carolina's fastest growing communities, with one of the state's highest income per capita due to a strong local economy. Chapin is the commercial hub for northern Lake Murray and is known as the "Capital of Lake Murray." Lake Murray is an approximately 55,000 acre man made lake, with over 600 miles of shoreline. Originally built in the 1920's, as a source for hydroelectric power, Lake Murray is home to many full time residents, water sports, and a mecca for bass and striper fishing. In the past decade, Chapin Real Estate has been steadily growing. There was a 39% increase in population in the 1980's and a 45% increase in the next decade The Chapin Real Estate brings the current total population to over 40,000 residents in a 10-mile radius of Chapin. This figure is expected to grow another 45% by 2010. As a state-recognized "Community of Character," the town is rich in southern hospitality, community spirit, and a family-oriented lifestyle. There are many new homes and subdivisions currently under construction along Chapin's scenic roads. Chapin's historic town center includes many new commercial buildings and new street renovations with landscaping. Citizens enjoy a more rural lifestyle, yet have convenient access to Interstate 26, and activities in Columbia. Some of the towns points of interest are Timberlake golf course and community which winds around several picturesque Lake Murray coves and peninsulas. Crooked Creek park, which is a new recreational center offering walking trails, an indoor facility for basketball, aerobics, racquetball, meeting rooms, weight training, jogging, plus soccer, baseball fields, and tennis courts. Chapin also has blue ribbon schools, historic churches, a town theatre, and hosts national fishing tournaments.