Explore the Captivating Accounts of Charleston and Lowcountry South Carolina from 1666-1861

Charleston and the Lowcountry region of South Carolina have a rich and storied history that stretches back centuries. From their early settlement in 1666 to the eve of the Civil War in 1861, these lands witnessed significant developments that shaped not only the destiny of the state but also the nation as a whole. Join us on a journey through time as we uncover the captivating accounts and hidden treasures of this historical era.

The Birth of Charleston: A City Carved by Colonists

As the first English settlement in South Carolina, Charleston boasts a fascinating history that traces back to its foundation in 1670. Originally named Charles Town in honor of King Charles II of England, the city became a bustling hub of trade and commerce throughout the late 17th and 18th centuries. From its early days as a strategic military stronghold to its growth as a wealthy port city, Charleston played a vital role in the development of the American colonies.

The architectural marvels that still stand today, such as the iconic Circular Congregational Church and the majestic Nathaniel Russell House, offer a glimpse into the glorious past of Charleston's colonial era. Walk through the cobblestone streets and historic neighborhoods that once bustled with merchants, sailors, and aristocrats, and let your imagination carry you back in time.

The Travelers' Charleston: Accounts of Charleston and Lowcountry, South Carolina, 1666-1861

by Jennie Holton Fant (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4703 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	392 pages

FREE

A Melting Pot of Cultures: The Diversity of Lowcountry Society

One of the most remarkable aspects of Charleston and the Lowcountry region is the cultural diversity that thrived within its borders. The city was a melting pot, attracting individuals from various backgrounds, including English settlers, Scottish Highlanders, French Huguenots, African slaves, and indigenous peoples. These diverse influences intertwined to shape the unique character of the region, leaving an indelible mark on its history.

Explore the Gullah culture, born from the ancestral traditions of West African slaves, which continues to thrive in the Lowcountry to this day. Take a boat trip to nearby islands and listen to soulful spirituals as you learn about the struggles and resilience of this vibrant community. Discover the rich traditions and culinary delights of the French Huguenots, who brought their skills in rice cultivation, indigo dyeing, and weaving to the region, transforming the Lowcountry into an agricultural powerhouse.

The Plantation Economy: Balancing Wealth and Morality

The sprawling plantations that once dotted the Lowcountry landscape were the backbone of South Carolina's economy during this period. The cultivation of rice, indigo, and later cotton, propelled the region's prosperity and attracted wealthy plantation owners like the Middleton and Pinckney families. However, the opulence and charm of these grand estates masked the harsh reality of slavery, which was deeply ingrained in the fabric of society.

Delve into the complex and conflicting narratives of the antebellum South, where immense wealth coexisted with unspeakable suffering. Hear the stories of enslaved individuals who resisted their oppressors through acts of rebellion and heroic escapes. Learn about the brave heroes of the Underground Railroad, who risked their lives to help enslaved people on their journey to freedom. These accounts provide a crucial reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

The Struggle for Freedom: Charleston and the Civil War

The outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 shook Charleston to its core. The firing on Fort Sumter, strategically located in Charleston Harbor, marked the beginning of a long and bitter conflict that would forever alter the course of American history. As one of the first acts of open aggression, this pivotal event ignited the flames of war and thrust Charleston into the center of the storm.

Uncover the stories of brave soldiers who fought on both sides of the conflict, and learn about the devastating impact the war had on the city and its inhabitants. Visit historic battlegrounds, such as Fort Moultrie and Battery Wagner, where the echoes of cannon fire still resonate. Reflect on the enormous sacrifice and courage displayed by those who fought for their beliefs during this turbulent time.

Preserving the Legacy: Charleston's Enduring Spirit

Today, Charleston stands as a living testament to its remarkable past. The city has beautifully preserved its historic district, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the architectural splendor, cultural richness, and profound stories that unfolded within its borders. From the vibrant Charleston Museum to the immersive exhibits at the Old Slave Mart Museum, opportunities abound to delve deeper into the city's heritage.

As you walk the cobblestone streets and soak in the infectious charm of Charleston, take a moment to remember the legacies of those who came before. Connect with the spirit of resilience that has characterized this region throughout its complex history. Allow the accounts of Charleston and Lowcountry South Carolina from 1666-1861 to serve as a reminder of the triumphs and tribulations of the past, inspiring us to shape a better future.

The Travelers' Charleston: Accounts of Charleston and Lowcountry, South Carolina, 1666-1861

by Jennie Holton Fant (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4703 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	392 pages

FREE

The Travelers' Charleston is an innovative collection of firsthand narratives that document the history of the South Carolina lowcountry region, specifically that of Charleston, from 1666 until the start of the Civil War. Jennie Holton Fant has compiled and edited a rich and comprehensive history as seen through the eyes of writers from outside the South. She provides a selection of unique texts that include the travelogues, travel narratives, letters, and memoirs of a diverse array of travelers who described the region over time. Further, Fant has mined her material not only for validity but to identify any characters her travelers encounter or events they describe. She augments her resources with copious annotations and provides a wealth of information that enhances the significance of the texts.

The Travelers' Charleston begins with explorer Joseph Woory's account of the Carolina coast four years before the founding of Charles Town, and it concludes as Anna Brackett, a Charleston schoolteacher from Boston, witnesses the start of the Civil War. The volume includes Josiah Quincy Jr.'s original 1773 journal; the previously unpublished letters of Samuel F. B. Morse, a portrait artist in Charleston between 1818 and 1820; the original letters of Scottish aristocrat and traveler Margaret Hunter Hall (1824); and a compilation of the letters of William Makepeace Thackeray written in Charleston during his famous lecture tours in the 1850s. Using these sources, combined with excepts from carefully chosen travel accounts, Fant provides an unusual and authoritative documentary record of Charleston and the lowcountry, which allows the reader to step back in time and observe a bygone society, culture, and politics to note key characters and hear them talk and to witness firsthand the history of one of the country's most distinctive regions.