Oh, Charleston!

From Myrtle Beach we ventured to Charleston, a gentle southern city, first visited by me less than two years ago. Ever since that first short work-related visit I wanted to return and spend some time learning of the area, its history and culture. We decided to stay at James Island, just a few miles to the south. The county owns and operates a large park which includes a nice RV park complete with a lake, miles of bike trails, and a seasonal water park.

Although miles from open sea, the park has a fishing dock and water access to the ocean.

Fishing is not the only recreation experienced by the lake; here the local model sailing club is holding races.

Charleston boast an aircraft carrier museum, the USS Yorktown. A WWII vintage submarine, commissioned too late for action in the war also is part of the museum. Dad and I spent close to four hours touring and reading up on the two crafts and the various types of airplanes on display. Guess who got to sit in the captain's chair?

Fort Moultrie, less known than Ft. Sumter. had protected the bay from the British during the Revolutionary War, well before Ft. Sumter and its man made island existed.

Since we are now hooked on the ocean, we had to venture out Folly Beach, a few miles to the east of our campground. This picture was taken from the pier as Louise and Floyd combed the beach for sea shells; a wave of greeting accompanied the happy travelers.

Imagine hosting a gathering at the end of the pier on a summer's eve...

The local grocery boasts that "we may snooze, but we never close," repleet with it own art on the side of the building by a local artist. Do I run or try to shake the man's hand?

Splurging a bit, we took a carriage ride through old downtown Charleston, soaking up its history and sites, more than one can absorb or retain. We choose Classic Carriage Works. The horse named Bill wasn't phased by the roar of Harleys, but would freak out if he saw an extension ladder.

You should know me by this time, I must show a couple of beach pictures!

Next entry will speak about the islands of Edisto and Hunting, including the southern-charmed town of Beauford, South Carolina, bringing you up to the present time at Savannah, Georgia. The gentleman in the next picture learned how to make the sawgrass baskets when he was a child and he returned to making these local crafts after he retired. As you can see, he is full of smiles doing what he loves doing.