Old Walled City Tour



Did you know that Charleston was the only English walled city in North America, substantially in place by 1712? Linger through the oldest neighborhoods in Charleston past virtually intact blocks of pre- and post colonial homes, storefronts, churches and public buildings while your guide relates the rich tales and legends from Charleston's proud and turbulent past. Learn about the personalities and circumstances that turned a small pioneer settlement in 1670 into the greatest city in the South by the time of the American Revolution, and the seat of Southern Culture through the Antebellum period. Approximately 2 hours.

Glorious Architecture Tour



Charleston is a city with over 1100 buildings pre-dating 1900, with 83 pre-dating the American Revolution, and as such is the largest repository of early architecture in the United States. Your guide will explain the evolution of Charleston architecture in relation to its wealth, climate and the many early nationalities which influenced a style that is uniquely Charleston. Learn about Georgian, Adams, Regency and Greek Revival styles and periods, 'single houses', piazzas and north side manners. Approximately 2 1/2 hours, includes admission to 2 museum houses.

Slavery and Freedom Tour



Some 200,000 captive Africans were processed at the port of Charleston, approximately 40% of all enslaved captives brought into the present day United States. This tour explores capture in Africa, the Middle Passage, processing and sale at the docks in Charleston, and the domestic trade up to 1865. We discuss the rise of Rice and Cotton as cash crops and their function in the expansion of slavery. Learn the roles of enslaved skilled workers, domestics and field hands in the context of antebellum culture, their lifestyles, survival strategies, and handicrafts. Important personalities discussed include Robert Smalls, Denmark Vesey, Dave Drake and modern day master ironworker Philip Simmons, among others. Approximately 2 hours.