Charleston American Revolution Walking Tour

Explore the forces that pushed Charleston toward Revolution, from colonial rivalries to the struggle for independence. Gain context for the people, conflicts, and debates that shaped the city’s pivotal role.

• Trace the rivalries, trade, warfare, and wealth that shaped Charleston’s path to independence
• Understand how the Yamasee War and the 1780 British siege tested the city
• Meet patriots, Loyalists, royal governors, and British leaders who shaped local events
• Discover how debates over taxation, loyalty, liberty, and power played out in Charleston
• Consider Charleston’s Revolutionary story through victory, defeat, uncertainty, and resilience

Itinerary

Discover Charleston's rich history on a captivating 90 minute walking tour through its historic streets and hidden alleys.

1. Beginning at the Shepheards Tavern marker, this journey takes you from the city's 17th Century founding through pivotal events of the US Revolution. Your expert guide will share engaging stories, encouraging questions and interaction to enrich your understanding of Charleston's pivotal roles.
2. Starting at the site of the founding of the Order of Cincinnati, a group of Revolutionary officers, that still exists today.
3. See the church that the British used as an aiming point during the siege of Charleston, and the graves of several founding fathers.
4. Stand in front of the homes of the Rutledge Brothers. One of whom signed the Declaration of Independence and the other signed the US Constitution.
5. See a home lived in today by descendants of signers of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution.
6. Glimpses into the daily life in Charleston during the Revolution.
7. See the site of the Battle of Sullivan's Island from across the Harbor. One of the first Colonial victories.
8. See the Old Exchange Building and Provost Dungeon, and its key role before and during the Revolution. Seen as of the most important building in the US from the Colonial Era.
9. The home where the British occupied as their headquarters after the capture of Charleston.
10. The remnants of the walled city, which remained in places through the Revolution.
11. And much much more!

Important details

• Arrive about 10 minutes before the start time for check-in and any outstanding waivers
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking
• Bring water during warmer months; water refill stops are available
• Expect bumpy sidewalks, which may make some routes challenging for walkers, wheelchairs, and strollers
• Tour operates in rain unless weather is severe; umbrellas are available if needed