South Carolina is a land of "firsts." It was the first province
in the New World to plant rice for sale. South Carolinians were the
first to seize British property by force as a prelude to the
American Revolution, and they were the first to secede from the
Union when the Civil War was eminent. The state is home to the first
public museum and the first formal gardens in the United States.
Beth Elohim Reform Temple was the birthplace of Reform Judaism in
the United States. You can see the sites and learn all about the
history of these events in Charleston, the first permanent
settlement in the Carolinas.
Charles Towne, now Charleston, was founded by eight English
noblemen in 1670. From its coastal beginning, the state grew inland,
attracting settlers from several European nations. They primarily
made their living from the land, until the Civil War brought
agriculture to a fiery halt. The state recovered slowly. Although
the textile industry began in the 1880s, it wasn't until after World
War II that South Carolina was able to pull out of its economic
slump. Today, manufacturing and tourism play key roles in the
state's economy.
South Carolina offers luxurious resorts with fine dining and
world-class golf courses, excellent fishing and the longest
deer-hunting season in the country. You can canoe down a mountain
stream or ride a horse through one of the state parks. It's a place
to find a romantic hideaway or the perfect spot for a family
vacation. Golfers will be pleased to know that the state has more
than 350 courses. You can play nearly anywhere during your vacation.
Charleston and Myrtle Beach are the state's most well-known
cities. But while they are both on the sea, they couldn't be more
different. Charleston with its historic homes and elegant gardens is
more subdued and traditionally Southern. Myrtle Beach bustles with
activity. It's a season-long beach party. Both have much to offer
visitors and make a good starting point to other areas of the state.
With its 47 state parks, miles of coastline,
and dozens of historic sites and other attractions, South Carolina
offers myriad activities to meet just about any taste.
