VARNVILLE — This article is based entirely on information published by the Town of Varnville on its official government website (varnvillesc.org). If there's one thing Nathaniel "Nat" Shaffer dislikes, it's an unsteady hand on the wheel. That may explain why he has spent nearly a quarter-century in public service for a town of fewer than 2,000 people — and why his influence has extended well past Varnville's city limits.

Shaffer was elected to the Varnville Town Council in April 2002 and served eight years before Gov. Nikki Haley appointed him Mayor on February 2, 2011. He has won re-election every four years since.

But the resume only tells part of the story.

From Wade Hampton to Walden and Back

Shaffer is a 1991 graduate of Wade Hampton High School. He earned an Associate's degree from USC Salkehatchie before heading to Brigham Young University in Rexburg, Idaho. He later completed his Bachelor of Science in Political Science at Walden University.

He has been a self-employed real estate appraiser since 1998, completing training through The Citadel.

A Builder, Not Just a Politician

What distinguishes Shaffer is the breadth of his institutional involvement. He is a member of the Lowcountry Council of Governments and has served as its chairman. He sits on the board of commissioners for Lowcountry Regional Water Systems. He has served on the Coastal Empire Mental Health Board.

He is a former Rotarian, a Mason, and a Shriner. He also completed training through the Southeastern School of Auctioneering.

Two Pulpits, One Mayor

Shaffer is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He also attends Varnville First Baptist Church. He is married to Becky Bates Shaffer, who serves as a Special Education Coordinator at Lowcountry Montessori School in Port Royal.

The RV and the Philosophy

When he is not in municipal meetings, Shaffer is on the road with his wife and three children — Parker, Banks, and Elizabeth Nell. The family enjoys RV travel, and they camp regularly at Hunting Island State Park, where Shaffer serves as a volunteer host.

Contact: Town of Varnville, (803) 943-2979. Mayor Shaffer can be reached through town administration.

For the Record: Source: Town of Varnville official government website (varnvillesc.org). Last verified: April 25, 2026.