When I was young, I loved museums. I lived in New York City until I was 13 so I was treated to some of the best museums in the country. The Museum of Natural History was my absolute favorite. I could spend forever in there. The Guggenheim was my least favorite (except for the structure itself). I didn’t “get” modern art at all. I’m not sure if I would have a different perspective as an adult. I like soft edges. For me, art must be grounded in reality and discordant music makes my skin crawl. Contemporary architecture isn’t my thing. So…I’m a good fit for the historic, beautiful city of Charleston. The history of Charleston has always fascinated me. It’s always a thrill to see places where history and modern culture collide.
The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon is one of these places. Our dear friends had their rehearsal dinner there a couple of years ago. It was a thoroughly chic and modern affair. However, the place is steeped in history. It’s easy to picture George Washington having supper in the arcade of the Exchange Building and prisoners in the dungeon below. The boys loved the animated “people” who retold the history of Charleston. Being in this setting really made it come alive.
I thought Colin and Davis would get a bit spooked by the dungeon but they loved it. Later that evening they were pretending to be Revolutionary War heroes! Chad and I really appreciated the architecture of the place. Who knew a dungeon could be so attractive?! I loved the careful brickwork and the soaring arches. wonder how much time it took to build this magnificent building. I imagine it took a really long time back in the 1700s.
We had planned to take in the Powder Keg and the Old Slave Mart Museum but it started drizzling and we were all tired from our earlier visit to the Charleston Museum. We visited the Charleston Museum in the morning and had a great time! I had been there once before (when I was teaching 5th grade) but didn’t remember it being so extensive. I’ve included some photos below with my usual disclaimer that they were all taken with my iPhone. My dungeon photos are dark but, then again, dungeons are supposed to be dark! One day I’ll learn to carry my real camera with me, I promise! 🙂
Davis in front of a Stagecoach
Colin at the Morris Island Lighthouse
The skeleton of a Right Whale that was beached in Charleston
Beautiful Ironwork
Replica of a Ship
Alligator Skeleton
Polar Bear (what?????!!) – has nothing to do with Charleston except someone local shot it on a hunt and brought it home!
Mink
Dollhouse that’s the exact representation of a Plantation House
