June 25, 2017

Stormy weather kept us in Brunswick for a few extra days providing us the opportunity to check out Saint Simons Island and Jekyll Island. (See photo album-St.Simons Island).Once the weather cleared we made the 90-nautical mile run to Harbor Town Yacht Club in Hilton Head where we stayed overnight. This marina was hit hard by Hurricane Matthew and still does not have electricity on the docks. We had had a long day and were happy to have dinner and turn in as we wanted to leave at daybreak. We got an early start and throughout the day the Captain was pleased the winds were conducive to hoisting the sails averaging about 7.5 knots. We had a lovely uneventful cruise into Charleston. The only excitement was docking the boat along the side of the mega-dock (instead of in a slip) with strong 2-3 knot currents. We were told we would have a starboard side tie up so it was not necessary to have any docking lines prepared on the port side. My gut feeling was to at least put a bow line on the port side but I did not do it. What we were NOT told in advance was that we would have to BACK up the boat to get along side the dock! Not something you want to attempt in opposing currents! Quick change to Plan B- tie up on port side....I had to move really fast to get dock lines on the port side and throw them off. It was challenging but Captain Pete and a couple of guys on the dock got us in safely and securely.

This is the first time either of us have visited Charleston and we love it! Downtown historic Charleston is just a quick shuttle ride away so we have been exploring every day. Charleston was founded in 1670 and is defined by its cobblestone streets, beautiful antebellum houses and friendly people. It is so relaxing walking through the neighborhoods and seeing the moss draped trees shading the beautifully restored homes most with inviting porches. We have also visited several of the historic sights and enjoyed many delicious meals here. (See Photo Albums Middleton Place and Charming Charleston).

Fort Sumter, where the opening shots of the Civil War were fired is close by. Last week we took the ferry out to the fort and did the self-guided tour. Fort Sumter played a significant role during the war. With the fort in Confederate hands, the port of Charleston was able to receive needed war supplies and ship out cotton in payment. To close the port and capture the city it was necessary to seize the Fort Sumter. For 20 months, Fort Sumter withstood Federal siege and bombardment with a loss of only 52 men and 267 wounded. Do you remember the ending? General Sherman's troops advancing north from Savannah caused the Confederates to evacuate Fort Sumter. On April 14, 1865, Fort Sumter was in Union hands.

One morning we drove out to Middleton Place House, a pre-Civil War home and site of America's oldest landscaped garden. The main house, now in ruins, dates back to the early 1700's. Two smaller structures (flankers) were built on either side of the main house; the north flanker contained the library of some 10,000 volumes, a music conservatory and many pieces of art. Union troops set fire to Middleton Place on February 22, 1865 burning the main house and north flanker beyond repair. After the war the less severely damaged south flanker was restored by the family to be their residence. It has remained under the same family stewardship for over 300 years.

Charleston's Historic Market is also a popular attraction. In existence for over 200 years, outlasting tornadoes, hurricanes, a major earthquake, devastation by fire and Civil War bombardment, it serves as a public market for locals selling a variety of items e.g. crafts, local foodstuffs, jewelry , souvenirs, etc. One of the oldest handcrafts of African origin in America is hand-woven, sweet grass basketry. With over 50 resident artists, the Market is the place to buy one of these sturdy baskets. If you like to buy indigenous items on your travels as I do visit one of the basket stalls and you will leave with a unique basket plus a significantly lighter wallet! You will also be treated to a quick demonstration on the weaving technique!

Our stay in Charleston was longer than most ports to allow time to enjoy the city and also because we flew up to New York to visit family. Reflecting on the last couple of weeks, we agree we love Charleston and the wonderful welcoming people we have encountered.

As I type this note, we are carefully watching the weather. Although we were planning to leave (Sunday) for Georgetown, SC we delayed because of a cold front pushing through bringing squalls and lightning. Thanks for following us. We look forward to hearing from you.

Take care,
Barbara and Pete