Charles Towne Landing, the first permanent English settlement in South Carolina, opened a new exhibit on October 16th to give visitors behind-the-scenes access to the site's most recent archaeological discovery.
Park archaeologists have found what they believe are remnants of a town lot from 1671. The architectural remains they’ve discovered so far, including brick walls, lime floor, and multi-paned window glass fragments – along with artifacts from daily life like pottery, glass, furniture parts and a gold-plated watch cover – are enriching the understanding of the site and life in the colony. While they hope to uncover more of the story as the dig continues, they are inviting the public into the excavation tent to learn about the history they are unearthing in real time.
“Generations of South Carolinians have visited Charles Towne Landing to see the birthplace of South Carolina, but they've never seen it like this,” said Duane Parrish, director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. “The fascinating work that our archaeological team is leading will change the way we understand this site. Each artifact they uncover is another clue about the early settlers – how they lived and the relationships they had with one another and the land. We're thrilled to invite visitors along for this historic journey of discovery in South Carolina's first permanent settlement.”
To celebrate these significant findings, on Saturday, October 16th, visitors can tour the excavation site, explore new exhibits, and speak to the park archaeologist and interpreters to learn more about life in the early colony. The event is free with park admission, weather permitting. Future tour dates will be posted on the South Carolina State Parks website.
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site sits on a marshy point off the Ashley River and introduces visitors to the earliest colonial history of Charleston. A popular destination for families and school field trips, visitors can step aboard and tour the Adventure, Charleston’s only 17th-century replica sailing ship, see cannons fired, or take a peek at otters, bears, bison and more at the Animal Forest natural habitat zoo.
