Charleston Stories

by Mark R. Jones Robert Smalls was born into slavery in 1839 in Beaufort, S.C, in the home of Henry McKee, a cotton planter.  The surname “Smalls” was most likely chosen by Robert after his emancipation. His mother, Lydia, was a house slave for the McKee family. In comparison to other circumstances, the McKees were…

Charleston is known around the world for its stunning architecture. Founded in the year 1670, the Holy City has witnessed many of America’s (and the South’s) architectural trends. From Colonial to Federal to Gothic Revival, Charleston’s buildings represent over 300 years of popular architectural styles. This self-guided Charleston architecture tour will take you past some…

Most visitors head to the Holy City to visit — well, the Holy City! But how many travelers make their way up to North Charleston? Technically, a lot. Since many of Charleston’s iconic plantations are located here. (Though visitors usually head straight for the plantations without stopping to enjoy the local eateries and scenery). Do…

The Gullah Geechee people of South Carolina have a rich heritage that’s associated with both their African roots and adopted European customs. Descended from enslaved African Americans that were brought to Charleston through the 1800s, Gullahs live predominantly in South Carolina, and the Geechee people generally live in Georgia and Florida. Discover more about this…

If your plans to visit Charleston this spring were put on hold because of the coronavirus, fear not! You can still virtually visit Charleston from the comfort of your own couch. Just put on some jazz and check out these Charleston virtual tours.  As the country gets vaccinated and things start looking more normal, we’ll…

Charleston was home to many Irish immigrants in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. In fact, many areas of the city and many local establishments were named after Irish settlers. Today, our residents still celebrate their Irish heritage. Here’s our definitive list of where to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Charleston.   Charleston Irish History…

Women have officially had the right to vote for 100 years! Help us celebrate women in Charleston in the month of March by learning about the women who helped build the city — and fought for women’s rights all over the U.S. Here are just some of our women to honor throughout Women’s History Month…

Charleston jazz history is rich and complicated. While Charleston is not the most famous city to put jazz on the map, the styles of jazz that formed in Charleston are just as important as those invented in New Orleans and New York City. Celebrate Charleston jazz history at some of the city’s most famous music…

Charleston was the landing point in the U.S. for many enslaved Africans. In fact, more than half of African Americans in the country today can trace their roots through Charleston. February is Black History Month in Charleston and we recommend visiting the following sites (in order) and imagining what it would have been like to land…

Charleston is full of winter activities during the colder months. Indoor and outdoor activities abound as the holiday season is winding down. Check out famous houses, fireplaces and indoor activities showing Charleston’s best of winter.    Famous Charleston Houses Get a taste of history when you head to the houses of Charleston’s 18th and 19th…

Charleston is a shopaholic’s dream destination. Find the perfect holiday present for friends and family members. Read on for the best Charleston shopping spots to cross off gifts for everyone on your list.    Charleston Shopping Spots  King Street is the best place to start your holiday shopping. Located in downtown Charleston, this strip is…

The Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights is one of the city’s beloved holiday occasions. Each holiday season at James Island County Park, guests flock to drive through approximately 2 million lights. The 2019 30th annual Holiday Festival of Lights is open November 15- December 31.  Admission, Hours and Other Helpful Information  Hosted by the Charleston…