Bamberg County was a part of Barnwell County until 1897. The people of the area voted for the creation of a new county and an election was held on January 19, 1897, which was the birthday of Robert E. Lee.

Bamberg County has the historical distinction of being the home of the inventor of the first submarine torpedo ever used. Dr. Frank Carroll made the torpedo and it was exploded in Clear Pond. It is believed that it was used in Charleston during the Civil War.

Bamberg County is primarily an agricultural county with some small industry.

Bamberg County has a population of 16,700 people in 5 towns; Bamberg, Denmark, Ehrhardt, Olar, and Govan.