5 Interesting Charleston Facts Worth Knowing About

Charleston, SC is a city full of rich history and intrigue. Charleston is well-known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, in addition to its sprawling plantations and magnificent churches. Also known as “Chucktown,” this timeless city still manages to capture the hearts and minds of visitors from all over the world. Here are 5 little-known facts about Charleston worth knowing about.

1. Charleston Has a Bill Murray Connection

Comedic actor Bill Murray is part owner of the Charleston Riverdogs, the city’s oldest baseball team. Formerly known as the Charleston Sea Gulls, the minor league team is affiliated with the New York Yankees. Murray is also the official “director of fun” for the team.

2. Gullah is the Official Language of the Low-country

Gullah is a Creole based language spoken by the Gullah people (descendants of African slaves in the South). It was declared the official language of the Lowcountry in 1939. Similar dialects of the Gullah language can be found as far away as the Bahamas.

3. Charleston is the Peach-Producing Capital in US

Move over, Georgia! While “The Peach State” is most famous for the production of these juicy fruits, it is in fact Charleston which produces the most in the country. 15% of peaches in the US are grown and shipped from you guessed it, Charleston!

4. Charleston, SC Was Home to America’s First Theater

Charleston is also home to the country’s oldest museum: The Charleston Museum, which dates back to the late 1700s. Popular American composer George Gershwin lived and died here as well.

5. In Charleston, Pineapples Are a Symbol of Hospitality

Pineapples are a symbol of hospitality in Charleston. It is said that after returning after a long journey, sea captains would spear the fruit onto their fence to let friends and family of their triumphant return. It was also doubled as an invitation to come visit, share stories, and catch up over food. According to historians, the practice stems from New England.