Timeless Charm of Charleston's Historic District

• HelloHowdy
  [hah-dee]
• GoodbyeFarewell
  [fair-well]
• YesYessir
  [yes-sir]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-jd]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn mee]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [hau yall doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And y'all?
  [fain. and yall]
• Do you speak English?Ya talk English?
  [ya tahk ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't reckon
  [ai dohnt rehk-uhn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like to see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Git!
  [Git!]
• Call the Police!Call the Sheriff!
  [Call the Sheriff!]
• Call a doctor!Call the doc!
  [Call the doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm ailin'
  [I'm ailin']

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll buy...
  [ai rehk-uhn ayl bai]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [ai'm just look-in]
• How much is it?How much is that?
  [hau muhch is that]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do it cheaper?
  [Can you do it cheaper?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [Tomorrah]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Charleston's Historic District was established in 1670 when the area was first settled by English colonists. Originally named Charles Town in honor of King Charles II, the city quickly became a hub of trade and culture in the southern colonies. The layout of the city, with its narrow streets and public squares, reflects the early grid planning typical of colonial towns, emphasizing community and commerce.

During the American Revolution, Charleston was a focal point of conflict and strategy. The city saw significant battles, including the Siege of Charleston in 1780, which resulted in the British capturing the city. The Historic District is marked by various sites, such as the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, which played crucial roles during this tumultuous period, serving as a military headquarters and prison.

In the decades leading up to the Civil War, Charleston's Historic District flourished as a center of wealth and culture, driven largely by the plantation economy. The city became known for its grand mansions and historic churches, many of which still stand today. The architecture from this period reflects the wealth generated from cotton and rice, as well as the reliance on enslaved labor.

Charleston's Historic District was significantly impacted by the Civil War, being the site where the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter in 1861. The war devastated the city economically and socially. During Reconstruction, the city underwent significant changes as the federal government sought to rebuild and redefine Southern society, leading to both conflict and progress as African Americans fought for their rights.

The late 20th century saw a concerted effort to preserve Charleston's Historic District as a valuable cultural and historical asset. Advocacy groups and local government initiatives worked together to restore and maintain historic buildings, leading to the establishment of the Charleston Historic District as a National Historic Landmark in 1960. These efforts have ensured that the unique architectural and historical heritage of Charleston remains intact for future generations.

The Historic District of Charleston is easily accessible from various neighborhoods within the city. If you are coming from the airport, the Charleston International Airport (CHS) is approximately 12 miles away. You can take a taxi or rideshare service, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. From nearby neighborhoods like West Ashley or Mount Pleasant, you can reach the Historic District via the US-17 bridge or take the local bus service operated by CARTA. For those staying in Folly Beach, expect a 30-minute drive or bus ride to reach the Historic District.

The Historic District is highly walkable, with most attractions within a short walking distance of each other. For longer distances, consider using the local bike-sharing program, Holy Spokes, which has several stations throughout the area. The CARTA bus system also provides service within the Historic District, and taxis or rideshare options are readily available. If you're interested in a guided tour, numerous companies offer carriage rides, which provide a unique way to see the area’s historic sites.

Charleston is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant. Areas like East Side and parts of the North Charleston region can have higher crime rates, particularly involving property crimes. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas, and always keep your belongings secure. Stick to well-lit streets and populated areas, especially after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is MUSC Health, located just outside the Historic District. Keep a list of local emergency contacts handy, including the address of your accommodation. It’s also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress appropriately for the weather. Don't wear overly casual attire, especially when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting historic churches. Cover shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't use your phone loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or nod. A handshake is appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine, especially seafood. Don't eat while walking, as it can be seen as disrespectful in certain areas.

To experience the Historic District like a local, explore the lesser-known streets such as Tradd or Church Street, where you can find hidden gardens and historic homes. Visit local markets like the Charleston City Market for unique souvenirs. Attend local festivals or events, especially during the spring and fall, to immerse yourself in the local culture. Try to engage with residents; many are happy to share stories and recommendations that might not be found in guidebooks.