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DOWNTOWN. Although not built by him, this 19th-century structure was the residence of former SC governor, William Aiken, Jr. He and his wife furnished the home with the spoils of their trips to Europe, and the gracious estate is unusual in that it hasn't been restored to a pristine condition, as so many historic sites are. Instead, the home is preserved as it was when finished more than 150 years ago, although with the effects of time added in. Some furnishings remain, but shadows of the past remain for visitors to wonder about. A basement, various outbuildings, and slave quarters can also be viewed. Docents ably provide details about the estate.
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Angel Oak
3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455 · 843-559-3496
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JOHNS ISLAND. Huge, gnarled, and spectacular, this live oak is believed to be more than 1400 years old. The incredible specimen stretches up 65 feet, is 25 feet in circumference, boasts limbs that reach out 89 feet, and shades more than 17,000 square feet of terrain. Named for the family who once owned the property on which it sits, the oak now occupies parkland cared for by the city of Charleston. Its longevity is due in no small part to the respect that locals have maintained for such an astounding natural phenomenon.
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MOUNT PLEASANT. The two most impressive sights at this plantation are the Avenue of Oaks, majestically lining the road to the plantation house, and the slave cabins, built in the 1790s and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The main house is a replica, built in the 1930s. The plantation hosts several major festivals throughout the year, including the Lowcountry Oyster Festival in February, the Scottish Games and Highland Gathering in September, Taste of Charleston in October, and a battle re-enactment in November.
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Drayton Hall
3380 Ashley River Rd, Hwy 61 North, Charleston, SC 29414 · 843-766-0188
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NORTHWEST CHARLESTON. This estate, built between 1738 and 1742, is considered one of the finest examples of Georgian-Palladian architecture in the United States. It was also the only plantation in the area not destroyed during the Civil War. Its salvation was gained when owner John Drayton informed Union troops that his home was being used as a smallpox hospital. It was thus spared from damage or destruction.
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DOWNTOWN. This Greek Revival mansion, dating to 1825, offers spectacular views of Charleston harbor and presents priceless displays of historical documents, antiques, silver, and china. The home was originally Federal in style but was renovated in the 1830s to accommodate contemporary tastes. Guided tours available.
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Fort Moultrie
1214 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482 · 843-883-3123
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SULLIVAN'S ISLAND. Although it fell into disuse more than once, Fort Moultrie has a lengthy history of coastal defense. The original structure was built in the 1770s, but it was abandoned by the British when they captured Charleston in 1780. The second structure at the site was destroyed by a hurricane in 1804. The current fort was built in 1809, with a few modernizations along the way. Part of a chain of forts designed to protect the South Carolina shore from various invaders, Moultrie eventually grew to encompass most of Sullivan's Island, and is today part of the Fort Sumter National Monument. The Visitor Education Center, at Liberty Square, has detailed historical information about both forts.
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NORTHWEST CHARLESTON. This 17th-century plantation has one of the nation's largest collections of azaleas and camellias; plus, a few gardens date back to the 1680s. Two previous main houses were destroyed by fire during a raid by Union troops, and the current house, furnished with period pieces, dates to 1873. The plantation also includes the 60-acre Audubon Swamp Garden with its majestic cypress trees. Children under 6 are not permitted on the House tour.
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DOWNTOWN. This unique home was completed in 1808 by the wealthy merchant whose name it takes and is best known for its free-floating circular staircase (which has no visible means of support) and lavish design elements. The home is a fine example of Federal design and Adam decor, and it features exquisite artwork and furnishings.
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DOWNTOWN. Home to Charleston's most famous cabinetmaker, this private residence was built prior to 1760. The four-room structure displays beautifully crafted architectural details and also showcases wonderful furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Elfe was a native Englishman who elevated himself to become one of Charleston's most acclaimed craftsmen. His work is much coveted by museums and collectors today.
Ready to look into the past and learn about the heritage of this fascinating city? We list historic homes, plantations, battlegrounds, and churches that are rich in history and provide for an educational travel diversion.
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