Walking Through History

Historic Charleston, SC offers a plethora of activities—-plantations, restaurants, museums, beaches, lighthouses…the list goes on. However, take a moment to stroll down some of its quieter streets, and one may find that it’s the simpler charms that enhance the city’s elegance.

Charleston Magazine describes these brick alleyways as ” a mere breath, a tiny gasp between two dense walls…” While these relics of history, which predate the automobile, may be considered minute pedestrian streets, one rarely encounters another person walking through them…it is as if, for a moment, the city belongs to the one person passing through.

Erica Mason, store manager of Bake House says that these alleys are often overlooked, but they "are what makes Charleston so special--they add to the history and the charm. When I myself discovered these alleys I felt that I had discovered something secret, something that is reserved for locals. Now, having realized that they are more well known that they appear, my appreciation for them is different. I can appreciate their history. Some of these alleys were where pistol duels took place...when the times were more lawless.

Its solitude could lead to its charm. One will not find Atlantic or Stoll’s Alley listed on a tourist brochure. These tree-vaulted lanes are local treasure’s that speak to the city’s aesthetically pleasing eye, and its love of secrets. These vantage points also offer a different perspective of the city. Within these walkways one can allow their imagination to listen to history—carriage wheels circling over cobblestone streets, vendors selling their goods…

History surrounds the city of Charleston—it is a walking museum. Whether real or imagined, the history of these alley’s offers a chance to adventure from reality…if even for a short walk.

If the above description does not spark interest--because lets face it, sometimes words fail--then take a look at some more images captured below....