Charleston, S.C. is a wonderful place to ring in the New Year in style – Southern style, that is – and for architecture nuts like us, it’s a little slice of mint julep-flavored heaven.
Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina, dating back to 1670, and is known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, distinguished restaurants, and mannerly people.
This was my second time in Charleston, but I still made new discoveries and once more fell under the genteel spell of the city.
To begin with, I stayed in the charming Governor’s House Inn, which was built in 1760 and is designated a National Historic Landmark. Originally designed as a Georgian double house with center staircase and two rooms on either side, it was renovated in 1885, and a Victorian spiral staircase was added. One of its owners was Edward Rutledge, the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence.
And for New Year’s Eve, I had the treat of dining at Circa 1886, which is located in the original carriage house of the luxurious Wentworth Mansion. The 24,000-square-foot, four-story Wentworth Mansion is a superb example of Second Empire architecture, characterized by its mansard roof.
One of the highlights of my visit was a stroll through the Historic District with its many houses and mansions dating back as far as the early 1800s. I saw a wide range of architectural styles – Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, Renaissance Revival, Victorian, and more.
I saw the French influence on the plantation-style homes, with their trademark wrought-iron features. I relished the elegant gardens. And I conjured up images of Southern aristocracy through the centuries seeking respite from the heat on graceful verandas, where they could watch their neighbors stroll by and socialize.
In short, I felt the elegance of Southern charm through the homes designed by architects who understood scale and gracefulness.
The lovely architecture, slower lifestyle, Southern manners and great food make Charleston a must-see destination. Who knows? Maybe I’ll lead a tour there in 2015.