Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina. Located in the southeastern part of the state, Charleston is recognized for its history and unique culture—a blend of West African, Southern American, and French heritage. This city is also known for its numerous churches and denominations; it seats the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston and the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina. Charleston's blend of culture and southern hospitality entice many people to become Charleston movers.
Charleston has one of the busiest ports in the southeastern United States and is heavily involved in manufacturing and shipping. Chemicals, automotives, paper, steel, and textiles are all produced in the city. Army, naval, and air force military establishments are all in Charleston, which employ a significant portion of the city's population. SPAWAR is currently the largest employer of the city and the Medical University of South Carolina is second.
History
English settlers first came to the area in 1670. In its early history, the settlement was subject to several attacks by both neighboring Indian tribes and the French and Spanish. A civic square and St. Michael's Episcopal Church were two of the earliest buildings constructed in Charleston. In the coming years, a diverse mix of people of various ethnicities and religions came to the city. Charleston continued to expand and became one of the largest trading areas of the southern region. People of Charleston confiscated tea in protest of taxation without representation and the Tea Act of 1773. Elections for the Continental Congress were held in the city in 1774.
After proclaiming its independence, the British took control of the city in 1780. The cotton gin made cotton the primary export of Charleston and it again caused growth in the city. A slave uprising was held in 1822 which resulted in many blacks and supporters being put in jail. In the early 1800's, the idea of state rights superceding federal powers was common throughout the area. South Carolina became the first state to vote to secede in 1860. By 1865, Union troops took control of the city. A major hurricane hit the city in 1885 and a year later a severe earthquake hit Charleston; both caused significant damage.
Tourism
Charleston International Airport is eight miles from the city. There are both notable minor league and collegiate sports teams in the Charleston area. The city overall is a popular tourist destination.
An old colonial city, Charleston boasts a large number of museums and historical attractions. Historic attractions in the area include St. Michael's Episcopal Church, the Miles Brewton House, the Old Powder Magazine, the Gibbes Art Gallery, the Charleston Museum, and the Fort Sumter National Monument. The city features an attractive waterfront that is lined with many resorts and hotels.
Charleston also hosts several well known festivals: the Spoleto Festival USA, a 17 day art festival, the MOJA Art Festival, the Food & Wine Festival, the Maritime Festival, and more.