The Witch Doctor Sheriff of Beaufort South Carolina!

James Edwin McTeer, known as the "Witch Doctor Sheriff," was a larger-than-life figure who served as sheriff of Beaufort County, South Carolina, for an unprecedented 37 years. His tenure was marked by a blend of law enforcement, mysticism, and folklore, making him one of the most fascinating characters in the history of the Lowcountry. From his feud with the infamous Dr. Buzzard to his connections with the Murdaugh family and the bridge named in his honor, McTeer's story is a tapestry of intrigue, power, and the supernatural.

The Boy Sheriff and His Rise to Power

Born on May 2, 1903, in Hardeeville, South Carolina, McTeer was thrust into the role of sheriff at the young age of 22 following the death of his father, who had held the position. Dubbed the "Boy Sheriff," McTeer quickly proved himself capable of handling the challenges of the job, which included rum-runners, bootleggers, and the occasional murder.

But McTeer was no ordinary lawman. He embraced the mystical traditions of the Lowcountry, particularly the African-American practice of rootwork, or hoodoo. This unique blend of law enforcement and mysticism earned him the nickname "White Witch Doctor," as he used spells and rituals to protect himself and his community. McTeer claimed that his mystical practices helped him govern the largely African-American county without ever needing to carry a gun.

The Feud with Dr. Buzzard

One of the most legendary aspects of McTeer's career was his feud with Dr. Buzzard, a renowned root doctor in the Lowcountry. Dr. Buzzard was a powerful figure in the community, known for his ability to cast spells and lift curses. The rivalry between McTeer and Dr. Buzzard was both professional and mystical, as they competed for influence and control over the region.

McTeer often referred to himself as the "last remaining tie to true African witchcraft," claiming that his own brand of voodoo was more authentic than that of Dr. Buzzard. Their feud became the stuff of legend, with tales of magical battles and spells cast against one another. Despite their rivalry, both men were deeply respected in the community, each representing a different facet of the Lowcountry's rich cultural heritage.

The McTeer Bridge

In recognition of his decades of service, a bridge across the Beaufort River was named in McTeer's honor shortly before his death in 19795. The McTeer Bridge stands as a symbol of his enduring legacy and the love he felt for the Sea Islands where he spent his life.

The bridge is not just a functional structure but a historical landmark that connects the people of Beaufort to their past. It serves as a reminder of McTeer's unique contributions to the community, blending law enforcement with folklore and mysticism.

Connections to the Murdaugh Family

McTeer's story intersects with another infamous Lowcountry dynasty: the Murdaugh family. For nearly a century, the Murdaughs wielded immense judicial and political power in the region, serving as solicitors for the 14th Judicial Circuit.

While McTeer and the Murdaughs operated in different spheres, their paths occasionally crossed in the pursuit of justice. The Murdaugh family's influence in the legal system complemented McTeer's mystical approach to law enforcement, creating a unique dynamic in the Lowcountry.

The Murdaughs themselves became the center of national attention following the double murder of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh in 2017. The case revealed a web of corruption, fraud, and scandal that had been hidden beneath the surface of their powerful dynasty. McTeer's legacy, though rooted in mysticism, stands in stark contrast to the Murdaugh family's fall from grace.

Legacy of the Witch Doctor Sheriff

James McTeer remains a legendary figure in the history of Beaufort County. His unique blend of law enforcement and mysticism set him apart from other sheriffs, making him a symbol of the Lowcountry's rich cultural heritage.

From his feud with Dr. Buzzard to the bridge that bears his name, McTeer's story is a testament to the power of magic in the Low Country and the enduring allure of folklore. His connections to the Murdaugh family add another layer of intrigue to his legacy, highlighting the complex interplay of power, justice, and mysticism in the Lowcountry.

Today, McTeer's life and career continue to captivate historians, folklorists, and anyone who appreciates the strange and wonderful stories that define the American South.