Bharath had already gone to a walk by the time I woke up, he came back with a huge smile and good coffee and kept talking about the vibe of the city. I sipped the coffee and soon we both went to explore the town, quaint and charming houses, piazzas are a thing in the old houses, yards/gardens in some houses are so beautiful, I felt like I was in some European country. Walked around the park by the bay, walked past the rainbow row, walked by the St.Philips church, walked past the market, walked past the battery, walked in french quarters, walked past museums, walked past college street.
We decided to go to Charleston museum to learn the history about Charleston. This town played such a key role in American revolution and also the Civil War. It was incredibly humbling to read stories and realize how far we have come. Yet, I couldn’t stop thinking about how much we still need to go about the race in this country and around the world. It made me sick how the Lincoln GOP transformed into Trump Party and the levels of rock bottom some individuals are falling in this great party. I digressed but I couldn’t stop thinking about the vision the older generation has for this country and how poorly we are living upto it. Progress is happening slowly but surely. Sometimes we may take 10 steps forward and 8 steps backward but the progress does happen. Hope is always a good thing. As Dumbledore said, "Happiness can be found, even in darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light". Choose hope and light.
Charleston was apparently one of the affluent counties back in the day, believe it or not they used to farm rice here in the south, it was such revelation for me. They have tried different crops like cotton and indigo but this is what made them rich and it was a major center for British to import and exports goods as well as warfare. So, it played a central role in the wars. Civil war started in Charleston at Fort Sumtar and that was the beginning of the end of Confederate forces. Charleston endured continuous bombing for more than 500 days and lost much of the wealth and end of slavery meant end of rice cultivation as it was very labor intensive.
Flint's landing was right on the bay, with pleasant afternoon breeze and sunshine, enjoyed some southern delicacies and fresh fish. This is a must go place if you are in Downtown. Went to the local market, it was fun exploring the local arts and crafts of Charleston, Candles, art, jewellery is pretty big there. Finally, took the much raved about historic carriage tours and explored the french quarters and our insanely funny guide gave the history lesson with hilarious anecdotes sprinkled. I ran to the battery chasing the sun going down, sky was in a soothing orange and cold wind on my face made it all worth it. And lastly, huge shout out to southern fried chicken at Magnolia's, that is something else.
Day 5: Downtown, Charleston.
Food: Flint's Landing and Magnolia's
