We are “living the dream” in the Lowcountry.
Historic sites, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities surround us in Mount Pleasant. The wonderful beaches of Sullivan’s Island and the Isle of Palms are at our front door. And, just across the Ravenel Bridge are the many attractions of Charleston, James Island, Johns Island, Folly Beach, and Summerville.
A recent article in USA Today highlighted a special aspect of our cherished South Carolina history. Two of the “Ten Best Historic Southern Plantations” are located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston. The plantations bloomed as early as the 17th century, and many of the beautiful structures and gardens are still with us today in South Carolina.
Inspired by the article, I have chosen some of the top Charleston-area plantations to visit.
- Boone Hall: While visitors may be familiar with Boone Hall Plantation from films like “The Notebook” and “The Tempest,” Mount Pleasant residents know this plantation for its rich history and photogenic gardens. Major John Boone founded the plantation in 1681, and the farm still continues to plant and sell its crops today. You can visit the colonial styled mansion, nine original slave cabins, a butterfly garden, and many special festivals, like The Taste of Charleston.
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Magnolia Plantation in West Ashley was founded in 1676 and has been preserved by the Drayton family (who owned a few plantations) for over 15 generations. Portions of the Magnolia Gardens can be traced back 325 years. The gardens are beautiful in every season. When you visit Magnolia Gardens, you will want to visit five restored cabins that show different eras of the plantation.
- Middleton Place: The main house at Middleton Place was built in 1705. The Middleton family played a significant role in Charleston and American history. Henry Middleton was the second president of the First Continental Congress. Arthur Middleton, his son, was a passionate revolutionary and signer of the Declaration of Independence. The plantation has some of the oldest landscaped gardens and original pieces of equipment that the Middleton family used. You can walk through the house, museum, gardens, and equestrian center.
- Drayton Hall: The Drayton family built Drayton Hall in the 1740s with Georgian Palladian architecture. It is a prized Charleston plantation for many reasons. Most noteworthy, it is one of the few buildings in the South that has not been restored or expanded. The plantation survived the Civil War, Charleston’s Great 1886 earthquake, and centuries of hurricane weather. When you walk through this mansion, you will be experiencing the plantation lifestyle as it was more than 200 years ago.
With each of these plantations, there is a thriving history that is waiting to be explored. Learn more about Charleston’s history from our famous plantations this season. Most plantations are open every day, but be sure to check their official websites.
From the Peck Law Firm, we hope you enjoy walking through these beautiful Charleston homes and gardens!
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