Few cities practice historic preservation with the unabashed passion Charlestonians do. The architecture reflects a slower, grander era – from its churches and public buildings to its private homes. It’s the latter that will open their doors Sept. 27 – Oct. 28 for the city’s 36th Annual Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens.
Fall is the perfect time of year for the tours. Saturated summertime heat is past, there’s a hint of autumn in the air and the folks who live in this historic city are eager to share the architectural showcases in which they live. That architecture is arrayed through neighborhoods that represent the city’s culture from Colonial period to present.
Among the neighborhoods you’ll see are:
- King Street. Named for King George I, the road was once called the Broad Path. The southern end of King is one of the most charming Charleston has to offer. And that’s saying something. The tour takes in some of the oldest and most notable renditions of the classic Charleston single house.
- Murray Boulevard. Back in 1909 the city reclaimed some 47 acres of land between Charleston’s original shoreline and the current seawall. Then homes went up. Today, the area is an architectural jewel box of ornate early 20th Century homes that front the harbor. This is the Charleston of picture postcards, the stuff misty, watercolor memories are made of.
- Radcliffeborough. The mid-19th Century was an iconic, tumultuous period and this is where planters and merchants built their homes. There are some great examples of the Charleston single house to be found hereabouts.
Folks do not live by insight alone. Charleston is as noted for its country cuisine as it is its edifices. You can do far worse than to dine at 82 Queen. If the weather is right, ask for seating in the courtyard.
(Image: msprague)
