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Bethune is situated in the central part of Kershaw County and occupies land that once bore the footprints of Native American trails and seasonal camps, long before European settlers arrived. In the early 1800s, European-American pioneers—predominantly of Scots-Irish and German descent—began to establish farms along the Little Lynches River and nearby creeks. A post office was established in 1828 under the name Lynchwood, which marked the formal beginning of organized civic life in the settlement. Over time, the arrival of the railroad and subsequent town charter led to the renaming of the town in 1900 in honor of Daniel M. Bethune, a prominent early landowner.

In its early decades the economy of Bethune was firmly rooted in agriculture and local trade. Farmers raised cotton, corn, and tobacco while logging and sawmilling provided supplementary income from the abundant pine and hardwood forests. As the railroad arrived through the area, the small town gained greater access to regional markets and a modest commercial district grew up around the depot and general stores. The cultivation of small-scale industry and the growth of agrarian supply businesses supported the town's evolution beyond purely subsistence farming.

Infrastructure improvements in the 20th century helped transform Bethune into a more connected community. Paved roads replaced dirt trails, telephone service arrived in the late 19th century, and utilities followed during the mid-1900s. The intersection of U.S. Highway 1 and S.C. 341 gave Bethune more visibility and access to neighboring towns such as Camden and Bishopville. During the later decades, many residents began commuting to larger employment centers while still living in town, blending rural heritage with suburban convenience.

Community life in Bethune has remained anchored in strong local institutions such as churches, civic clubs, and schools. The population has been stable, featuring a mix of long-time farming families and newer residents drawn by the town's small-town atmosphere and lower cost of living. Annual events, local parades, and community festivities reflect a pride in place that has endured even as the town's economy and demographics have changed. The historic downtown retains many modest storefronts and landmarks from the early 20th century, giving the town a sense of continuity and authenticity.

Today Bethune offers residents the appeal of family-oriented living in a quiet setting with easy access to regional highways. It combines its agrarian roots with modern amenities, and serves as an attractive base for those seeking a strong sense of community, affordable homes, and proximity to larger employment centers. With its enduring heritage, stable civic life and evolving role as a residential hub, Bethune continues to build on its past while moving thoughtfully into the future.