Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour

The Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour provides an enlightening exploration of Charleston’s rich African American heritage. Participants uncover the city’s lesser-known narratives, visiting significant sites like the Citadel and Emanuel AME Church. The tour delves into the unique Lowcountry culture, highlighting West African influences, the Gullah language, and culinary traditions. It’s an insightful and meaningful experience that honors the resilience and contributions of the local black community. Those interested in Charleston’s underrepresented history won’t want to miss this captivating tour.

Good To Know

• Explore Charleston’s black history and culture through visits to significant sites like the Citadel, Aiken-Rhett House, and Emanuel AME Church.
• Gain insights into the military heritage and neo-Gothic architecture of the Citadel, a renowned college founded in 1842.
• Discover the stories of enslaved people and the opulent lifestyle of the elite at the Aiken-Rhett House, an antebellum mansion.
• Learn about the history and community impact of the historic Emanuel AME Church, founded in 1816 as an independent black congregation.
• Enjoy the unique Lowcountry culture, including the Gullah language, Sweetgrass basket weaving, and the culinary contributions of enslaved Africans.

Tour Highlights

The Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour focuses on the black history and culture of Charleston.

Travelers explore historically significant sites like the Citadel, Aiken-Rhett House, and Emanuel AME Church. They’ll learn about the unique black Lowcountry culture and gain insights into underrepresented aspects of Charleston’s history.

The tour highlights lesser-known stories, shedding light on the city’s African American heritage. Guests come away with a deeper understanding of Charleston’s complex past and the vibrant contributions of the black community.

The experience offers an eye-opening look at this aspect of the city’s history.

Significance of the Citadel

One of the historically significant sites explored on the Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour is the Citadel, a renowned military college that has played a pivotal role in the city’s history.

Founded in 1842, the Citadel has been a symbol of Charleston’s military heritage, producing generations of officers who’ve served in conflicts from the Civil War to the present day.

The campus itself is an architectural gem, featuring grand neo-Gothic buildings that reflect the institution’s storied past.

Visitors gain insights into the Citadel’s enduring influence and the pivotal role it has played in shaping Charleston’s identity.

Exploring the Aiken-Rhett House

Another highlight of the Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour is exploring the Aiken-Rhett House. This antebellum mansion offers a glimpse into Charleston’s past.

Visitors can:

1. Marvel at the opulent interiors and well-preserved rooms.
2. Discover the stories of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property.
3. Imagine the grandeur of Charleston’s elite society in the 19th century.
4. Reflect on the complex history that the house represents.

The Aiken-Rhett House stands as a testament to Charleston’s complex past, inviting tour participants to ponder the city’s rich, yet troubled, history.

Discovering Emanuel AME Church

After exploring the Aiken-Rhett House, the Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour takes participants to another significant landmark – the Emanuel AME Church.

This historic church, founded in 1816, has played a crucial role in Charleston’s African American community. The tour guide shares the church’s past, from its beginnings as an independent black congregation to its modern-day significance.

Visitors learn about the 2015 mass shooting that targeted the church, and how the community has since come together to heal and continue its legacy of social justice.

The tour provides a solemn yet meaningful experience, honoring the church’s profound impact on Charleston’s history.

Understanding Black Lowcountry Culture

The Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour delves deeper into the unique Lowcountry culture of Charleston’s African American community. Guests learn about the enduring influences of West African traditions, the resilience of enslaved people, and the vibrant legacy of Gullah Geechee heritage.

The tour highlights:

1. The rhythmic Gullah language, a creole blend of English and West African dialects.
2. The spirituality and community found in historic black churches like Emanuel AME.
3. The artistry of Sweetgrass basket weaving, a beloved Lowcountry craft.
4. The flavors of Lowcountry cuisine, shaped by the culinary contributions of enslaved Africans.

Immersed in this rich cultural tapestry, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Charleston’s complex African American story.

Underrepresented Aspects of Charleston’s History

While Charleston’s history is often celebrated for its antebellum architecture and Southern charm, the Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour delves into the underrepresented narratives that have long been overlooked.

The tour explores historically significant sites like the Citadel, Aiken-Rhett House, and Emanuel AME Church, shedding light on the city’s complex racial history.

Participants gain insights into the unique black Lowcountry culture, learning about the contributions and experiences of the African American community.

Accessibility and Participation

Though not wheelchair accessible, the Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour is stroller accessible, allowing families to participate.

The tour also welcomes service animals and is located near public transportation, making it accessible to a wider audience. Most travelers can join, though it may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

The tour allows:

1. Photography
2. Asking questions
3. Bringing along well-behaved dogs (with proper cleanup)
4. Experiencing Charleston’s unique black Lowcountry culture.

Alcohol, however, isn’t permitted during the tour.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can reserve the Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour in advance and pay later, providing flexibility in booking.

The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. This allows visitors to easily adjust their plans if needed.

The pricing for the tour starts at $57.15 per person, making it an affordable option for those interested in exploring Charleston’s rich history and black culture.

The tour’s accessibility and pet-friendly policies further enhance the overall experience, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey through the city’s historical landmarks.

The Sum Up

The Frankly Charleston Sunday Walking Tour provides a profound exploration of Charleston’s rich black history and culture. Participants uncover the lesser-known narratives of the city’s African American heritage, delving into the unique Lowcountry influences and honoring the resilience of the local black community. This insightful and meaningful experience offers a comprehensive understanding of Charleston’s underrepresented past.