Gadsden Flag, 1775 So-called for its designer, Charleston’s own Christopher Gadsden (1724-1805), presented this pattern in 1775 first to Commodore Esek Hopkins, commander of the brand new United States Navy established by General George Washington. Later, Gadsden presented a second flag of the same design to South Carolina’s state Congress…
Read MoreIn December 1856, President Franklin Pierce decorated the White House tree with candles. It was a risky move to be sure. After all, most festive folks who enjoyed illuminating their Christmas trees by this time were well aware of the dangers of having multiple open flames intermingling with large, dried…
Read MoreThe Charleston Museum boasts a wonderful quilt collection, most of them locally made, dating from the late 18th century through the 20th century. Particularly important are our 19th century chintz appliqué beauties that were obviously a favorite of the Lowcountry women that made them. Perhaps especially relevant to our celebration…
Read MoreBy Carl P. Borick, Director The Charleston Museum lost a true and dear friend with the passing of ADM Arthur M. Wilcox on October 13. A descendant of Joseph Manigault, whose house the Museum owns and preserves, Arthur Wilcox was a great believer in the mission of the Museum. He…
Read MoreFragments from an elaborately-molded plate, featuring a pierced rim, fruit and basket design. Master potter John Bartlam immigrated to Carolina from the Staffordshire region of Britain to search for clays appropriate for English-style tablewares. He found good clay at Cain Hoy, a small settlement on the Wando River,…
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