Charleston, South Carolina
The history of Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the longest and most diverse of any community in the United States, spanning hundreds of years of physical settlement beginning in 1670 through modern times. Charleston was the leading city in the South from the colonial era to the Civil War. The city grew wealthy through the export of rice and, later, sea island cotton and it was the base for many wealthy merchants and landowners. The devastation of the Civil War and the ruin of the Charleston's hinterland lost the city its regional dominance. However, it remained the center of the South Carolina economy, while in politics the upstate politicians routinely attacked its aristocratic and undemocratic tone. Beginning during World War II, Charleston became a major naval base. In recent decades, tourism and service industries have led the economy to a new level of prosperity.
Drayton Hall Plantation House, South Carolina
Drayton Hall is one of the most remarkable houses in North America; in fact, it is the earliest and finest example of Palladian architecture in the United States.
Hunting Island State Park
Lush and inviting Hunting Island State Park impresses visitors with acres of spooky maritime forest, tidal lagoons and a bone-white beach littered with seashells and the occasional shark tooth. The Vietnam War scenes from Forrest Gump were filmed in the marsh, a nature-lover's dream. Campgrounds fill quickly in summer. Climb the lighthouse for sweeping coastal views. Much of the park was affected by Hurricanes Matthew and Irma, but has largely recovered.
