Journey to the land of Forrest Gump, grand plantation homes and live oak trees
The southern parts of the United States, particularly Georgia and South Carolina, possess a unique charm that captivates many visitors.
My friend and I explored this region for the first time last Easter. Nestled by the coastline, rivers, and marshlands, it is significant for its geography as part of the Lowlands of the USA. The area’s rich history and ties to British royalty enhance its allure; Georgia is named after King George II, while Charleston is named in honor of King Charles I.
Iconic films such as Gone with the Wind, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, The Notebook, and Forrest Gump highlight the beauty and culture of these regions, making them even more attractive. Each movie tells a story of the South, showcasing its vibrant culture, historic towns, and the warm hospitality of its people. Every southern meal truly feels like a feast fit for a king!
Savannah
In Savannah, Georgia, visitors are treated to a glimpse of American history through its founding by James Oglethorpe, an Englishman in 1733, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States. The city’s charm is evident in its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and beautiful architecture. The Oglethorpe Inn, where we stayed, adds a special touch to the experience, connecting visitors to the rich heritage of Savannah. It’s like sleeping in a history book, complete with all the modern comforts.
Savannah’s architecture is a delightful mix of styles that will make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into a charming postcard. The stunning antebellum homes, with their grand columns and pastel colors, seem to say, “Welcome to a time when the biggest worry was whether to sip sweet tea on the porch or inside!” The famous wrought-iron balconies and Spanish Moss hanging from the Live Oaks create a picture-perfect setting that feels straight out of a movie I watched.
The city’s history is further enriched by its involvement in the American Civil War. Savannah’s strategic location as a key port made it a vital asset during the conflict. In 1864, General William Tecumseh Sherman captured the city during his famous “March to the Sea.” This event marked a significant moment in the war, as it demonstrated the Union’s strength and helped pave the way for the South’s eventual surrender. The scars of the Civil War can still be seen in the city, with monuments and museums that honor its complex past, reminding visitors of the struggles and resilience that shaped the region.
The beauty of Savannah extends beyond its historical sites. The city’s public squares, such as Forsyth Park and Chippewa Square, provide serene spaces for relaxation and enjoyment. Chippewa was made famous in the movie Forrest Gump with an unforgettable scene of Gump (Tom Hanks) sitting on a bench and telling his life story to anyone who cared to listen. That was 80 percent of the film. The bench is now in the museum because people were chipping the wood off to keep it as a relic. These squares are not just beautiful; they serve as gathering places for locals and tourists alike.
We visited Mercer Williams House, now a museum, of a mix of Greek and Italianate architecture. It was completed in 1860 and was used in the mystery film, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. We attended Palm Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of John the Baptist. What we did not do was join the tourists in a haunted tour of America’s most haunted cities. But enjoying a leisurely stroll or sitting on a bench while soaking up the atmosphere allows visitors to appreciate the essence of Southern hospitality—where a friendly wave is as common as a passing dog wearing a bowtie!
We enjoyed a captivating performance of the Broadway musical, Million Dollar Quartet at the historic The Savannah Theater, which tells the true story of the only time Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash shared the stage. The theater itself was as venerable as the audience and perfectly set the mood for this nostalgic journey back to our jam session era.
Beaufort
Pronounced as Beaufort, as in beautiful, this tiny city in South Carolina is one hour away from Savannah on the way to Charleston. An idyllic coastal town where locals chat with newcomers in coffee shops, we stopped for a picnic in the waterfront park. Behind us were two beautiful old mansions, privately owned, which we were hoping to explore.
Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that breathes history, characterized by its stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. Founded in 1670, Charleston has played a significant role in American history, from its colonial beginnings to its pivotal position during the Civil War.
The city was home to a wealthy and influential elite class, composed of plantation owners who held social and political power, where the preservation of slavery and agrarian lifestyle became intertwined with its culture. This social status allowed them to mobilize public sentiment for secession, leading to the Civil War. The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 was the catalyst for the secessionist movement because it served as a threat to the institution of slavery, the source of the Southerners’ power and wealth.
Today, the city is a testament to its rich past, showcased through its beautifully preserved structures, picturesque landscapes, and delicious Southern cuisine.
Charleston’s architectural beauty
The historical significance of Charleston is evident in its well-preserved architecture, which reflects a blend of Georgian, Federal, and antebellum styles, much like Savannah and Beaufort. Walking through the historic district feels like stepping back in time, with each building telling its story.
The iconic Rainbow Row, a series of pastel-colored historic homes along East Bay Street, showcases the city’s vibrant charm and unique aesthetic. The Battery, a waterfront promenade lined with grand mansions, offers an exquisite view of the Charleston Harbor and highlights the city’s opulence during its prime years.
Riding on a horse-drawn carriage is one of the best ways to appreciate Charleston’s history and architecture. As we embarked on our carriage tour, the clip-clop of hooves on the cobblestones set the pace for a leisurely exploration. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the city’s past, including tales of pirates, plantations, and the impact of the Civil War. As we ambled through the streets, I was enthralled by the intricate ironwork, the wide porches, and the carefully manicured gardens that define Charleston’s architectural landscape.
A visit to Middleton Place and Boone Hall Plantation
Charleston’s history is also deeply intertwined with its plantations, where much of the region’s agricultural wealth was achieved using enslaved Africans. Our first stop was Middleton Place, a beautifully preserved plantation dating back to the 18th century. As I walked through the sprawling gardens, I marveled at the meticulously arranged landscapes and serene beauty that captivated countless visitors and filmmakers alike.
The grounds of Middleton Place tell the story of Colonial America’s plantation economy and the lives of those who lived and worked there. The Main House, although burned during the Civil War, has been reconstructed and serves as a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the lives of both the owners and the enslaved people who labored on the plantation.
Our next destination was Boone Hall Plantation, one of America’s oldest working plantations, renowned for its distinctive drive lined with live oak trees. It was made famous as the film location of The Notebook.
Here, the grand plantation house stands as a symbol of the region’s agrarian past, while the slave cabins have been preserved to honor the stories of the people who lived in them. Guided tours provide an insight into the daily lives of the plantation’s workers and the complex history of plantation life. Both Middleton and Boone Hall offer profound reflections on the history of the South, blending beauty with the somber realities of its past.
Culinary delights in the French Quarter
After immersing ourselves in Charleston’s rich history and culture, we turned our attention to the city’s culinary offerings. The French Quarter, known for its vibrant atmosphere, is home to some of the best dining experiences in the region.
One of our culinary adventure highlights was indulging in fresh oysters, a Southern delicacy that perfectly captures the essence of coastal cuisine. We savored the briny sweetness of the oysters, served on the half-shell and topped with a tangy mignonette sauce.
Another standout dish was Moules Marinières, a classic French preparation of mussels steamed in white wine, garlic, and herbs. Served with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth, this dish showcased the influence of French cuisine on Charleston’s dining scene. The combination of fresh seafood and local ingredients reflected the city’s commitment to culinary excellence and its connection to the surrounding waters.
We concluded our journey in Aiken to reunite with relatives, taking the opportunity to reflect on our rich experiences in Savannah, Beaufort, and Charleston. Each city offered its unique charm, but with its serene atmosphere and equestrian culture, Aiken proved to be the perfect retreat for unwinding and savoring the memories of our adventure.