Charleston, South Carolina, U.S.A: Tour Guide, Early African American status, South Carolina Travel Guide

Charleston, South Carolina, U.S.A. Tour Guide, Early African American status, South Carolina Travel Guide. Charleston is still coming to terms with its difficult history of slavery. Historians estimate that slave ships brought 200,000 to 360,000 men, women, and children into Charleston's harbor over the course of America's period of international slave trade. Charleston's mayor, Joseph P. Riley, Jr., goes so far as to estimate that more than 80% of African-Americans in the U.S. today can trace at least one ancestor back to Charleston. Fortunately, more and more Lowcountry institutions are now recognizing African-American history and creating learning opportunities for locals and visitors. There's growing interest in Gullah language, crafts, food, and culture. And we're finally going to have the African-American Museum that local leaders have been talking about for years. The city and other partners recently announced plans for a $75 million International African-American Museum to be open by 2018 near the South Carolina Aquarium. In the meantime, here are five African-American history sites worth a visit in Charlest. TOURISM: If you prefer a temperate, subtropical climate, then Charleston is the place for you! The weather is typically warm, even when winter wraps much of the world in her icy cloak. December to February typically sees an average temp in the 60s while spring and autumn are in the 70s. Summer can get a little warm, averaging in the low 90s, but that makes for great outside play and there are plenty of outside activities in the area! After the hectic work week, you can kick back on the weekends and take a walk on the long cobblestone streets along Rainbow Row and other parts of the city, catch a carriage ride around the city, or take the family to the South Carolina Aquarium. You can wander through the Old City Market where local vendors sell everything from local spices to handmade palmetto baskets and roses to photography. The Moon Pie General Store is also fun for the whole family with its snack cake scented candles and unique novelty items. If you opt for some outside fun, you can hit one of the area's bike trails or visit one of several state and county parks, including Waterfront Park with its bicycle carousel. As you walk along the river, you'll pass the Pineapple Fountain and end up at the Battery with its massive, moss-laden oaks and beautiful gazebo. If you don't mind a short drive, pack the family in the car and head over to Johns Island to see the Angel Oak Tree