Why the Folly Boat should be in the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia, S.C.

During the tragic period when Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in late 2018, a flag, nicknamed “Kevin” was ripped and torn through the devastating winds and rain, but withstood the storm with resilience and strength.  That flag became a symbol of the unconditional fortitude of the communities affected by the land fall hit of this 2018 Hurricane.

In 1989, the Lowcountry region of Charleston, Isle of Palms and neighboring communities suffered one the most tragic natural disasters in its history when Hurricane Hugo hit land and destroyed homes, property and lives.  A symbol of this regions unbridled perseverance, in the face of harm, rose from the ashes, the Folly Boat.

For the last 30 years, the Folly Boat has stood in the same spot from when it washed on the side of Folly Road during the massive invasion of Hurricane Hugo in 1989.

Over the years, this symbol of resilience, fortitude and strength has become a canvas for the community.

From messages of love, declarations , anniversaries, remembrance, gratitude, proposals and thank you notes, the Folly Boat has been our message board, but most importantly, a reminder of how fragile this community can be.

In a twist of irony, Hurricane Irma, 28 years later, unhinged this symbol and since then much debate has been raised on what to do now.

We feel the proper place to pay homage and give this historic symbol a proper home is the South Carolina State Museum.

Over the course of Charleston’s history, a number of significant events have solidified the importance of this port city from the first shots of the American Civil War to the tragic and needless shooting of the Emanuel Nine.  Charleston has witnessed extreme highs and lows throughout its history and Hurricane Hugo is no exception.  The recovery of this community and the boat that became its symbol have been a rock in a community that has withstood so much.

Let us restore it back to its original look and create an exhibit that will allow others to learn and understand this piece of our history

The exhibit can include:

• Detailed documentation of the events prior and post Hurricane Hugo
• A visual collage or film of all the creative ways the boat has been a canvas of love for Charleston
• Stories from those that lived the events
• Interactive simulations allowing patrons to paint their own message

Maybe it is time to speak to our state representatives and look at giving the Folly Boat a much deserved home so the entire state and beyond can celebrate its contributions to Charleston.

Official Folly Boat Gallery and Website