Charleston's Colonial Character

How does one go about describing Charleston, South Carolina? It has a long history, because Charles Town was founded in 1670. It's name changed to Charleston in 1783. And somehow, it's managed to honor and preserve much of that history.

Settlers to the area did not find an easy life at first. Spain and France both contested England's claim to the region, and periodically launched sea or land attacks. Native Americans in the area resented the colonists' expansion and also proved a threat. At one time, part of the city was walled for protection.

Charleston slave market

Various ethic groups came to Charleston, and it grew into a trading town. People from as far away as the North Carolina mountains journeyed there to conduct major business.Such a large number of Jews came into the city that it became home to the biggest Jewish community in North America by the beginning of the 1800's. The large number of slaves brought into the port also added to the diversity. Charleston had become the largest and wealthiest city south of Philadelphia. It was the fourth largest port, coming after Boston, New York, and Philadelphia.

Landowners in the Lowcountry experimented with growing tea, silkworms, and rice, as well as more traditional crops. Indigo, the plant used to make blue dye, was an even greater commercial success. As Charleston became an economic center, it also became a social and cultural center. For example, the first theater in America was built there in 1736.

Despite a strong elitist thread running though the city, Charleston earned a reputation for fine dining, Southern hospitality, and friendliness. This is still evident today.

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