Charles Towne Landing
Charles Towne Landing is a beautiful site and living history museum, featuring a trail, a reconstructed 17th century ship, homestead, and an animal farm. As with many historic sites, the best place to begin the journey is inside the museum.
History of Charles Towne Landing
In 1670, the first English settlers landed at Albemarle Point to create a new colony. Prior to the settlement, the land of North and South Carolina had been given to a prominent Englishman, but never settled. In 1663, Charles II, split the land of South Carolina into eight parts and gave each to loyal supporters which would become known as "Lord Proprietors."
One of the Lord Proprietors happened to be Ashley Cooper, First Earl of Shaftesbury. With the help of John Locke, a Constitution was written. The Ashley Cooper River was named after Lord Ashley, and it was his doing that a settlement was supported and created.
The settlers chose the name Charles Towne to honor King Charles II. The farm land was good and the colony prospered. The colonists were from England and the West Indies, and were hoping to grow crops that were similar to those in tropical climates (due to their misconception on the location of Barbados). Even so, they realized that tobacco, indigo, and a number of other crops could grow. In 1680, the colony moved to Oyster Bay, and continued to grow.Visiting Charles Towne Landing
Charlestowne Landing is a must visit for history buffs and for families. Starting with the museum, kids and adults will enjoy learning the history of the settlement, the names of the Lord Proprietors, the Indian tribes of which areas of coastal South Carolina were named, and much more. There are many interactive exhibits that will keep kids of all ages interested and prepared to explore.
After exploring the museum, start the walk by visiting The Adventure. Along the walk, one will see a statue in honor of the Kiawah tribe (of the Cusabos). From there walk past the fort or homestead where the settlers would have been protected by "palisade" walls.
The Adventure
After walking along the path of colonial history, stop to listen to the story and the workings of the reconstructed 17th century ship. This is a wonderful experience, and families with children will be pleased to know that the interpreter is extremely entertaining and kids love it!
Upon entering the ship, one will be greeted by an interpreter who will proceed to tell the story of how the sailors and those on board would have lived while on the sea. He will also give the kids a chance to steer the ship, lift and lower the anchor, and other activities while giving information on the ship. After the demonstration, everyone is free to explore, and can even go try tying some knots, such as "square," before continuing along the path.
All in all, the ship is a wonderful experience, and parents will be surprised at the information their children will remember. It is a lovely learning opportunity. As well as a true adventure for families.
Animal Forest
Once one is finished climbing ropes and tying knots, keep on walking along some marsh land, through coastal South Carolina shrubs and trees, to find a crop garden. The crop garden is being grown using 17th century techniques. From there go to see the Legare-Ware House, take a few minutes to explore the museum again and prepare for the Animal Forest.
The Animal Forest features local animals. It also offers guests the opportunity to adopt an animal for as little as $10. The zoo area is much fun. Children love this area, making it a great place to end or start the journey at Charles Towne Landing.
Charles Towne Landing also offers many musket and cannon demonstrations as well as living history programs. It is where South Carolina begin, and one of the best places to begin one's historical Charleston journey.
Source: