Africans played a key role in the wealth developed in Charleston and South Carolina generally, and a number of sites in the city are connected to the history of that culture. The Old Slave Mart, built in 1859 on Chalmers Street is the only slave auction building in the United States that still stands. Today the building houses a museum dedicated to the history of slavery. When you are ready to experience Charleston‘s history—and cuisine, culture, shopping and more—visit AFAR Journeys for 12 itineraries created for AFAR readers by the AFAR Travel Advisory Council.
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Old Slave Mart
Africans played a key role in the wealth developed in Charleston and South Carolina generally, and a number of sites in the city are connected to the history of that culture. The Old Slave Mart, built in 1859 on Chalmers Street is the only slave auction building in the United States that still stands. Today the building houses a museum dedicated to the history of slavery. When you are ready to experience Charleston‘s history—and cuisine, culture, shopping and more—visit AFAR Journeys for 12 itineraries created for AFAR readers by the AFAR Travel Advisory Council.
Gullah Heritage
Guided walks around town with Gullah Tours provide an overview of the city’s African-American history, from slavery to the present day. Morning walking tours focus on sites associated with the city’s African-American heritage: the Old Slave Mart, the sweetgrass stalls at the Charleston City Market, and the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church. You’ll also see works by Philip Simmons, an acclaimed blacksmith who died in 2009 and whose ornamental gates and balconies grace many of Charleston’s homes.