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This elder mother of the Gullah Geechee community shares the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Gullah Geechee during this live event from Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Enjoy this new video from We Woke TV
Mashed.com has named its Best Seafood Restaurants in the US – One Charleston Restaurant made the list
Congratulations to The Ordinary named one of the top seafood restaurants in the nation by Mashed.com
Located at 544 King Street, Charleston, SC, The Ordinary, which is the same team that derived FIG, has captivated diners who come from far and wide to enjoy this culinary delight. They have created a menu that “celebrates the “merroir” of the Coastal Carolinas and the East Coast, and we strive to support local and regional fishermen, crabbers, oystermen, farmers and producers.”
The Mashed article describes The Ordinary as: “In the elegant city of Charleston, South Carolina, an oyster hall is ensconced in a former bank. From all accounts, there’s absolutely nothing ordinary about The Ordinary. According to The New York Times, award-winning chef Mike Lata is clearly obsessed with oysters. “You can poach them, broil them, smoke them, pickle them,” Lata told the Times. Lata hails from Massachusetts, but he’s endeared himself to Charlestonians with his passionate support of local fishermen (per Charleston Food & Wine), who provide him with the seafood he needs to create his eclectic menu.
Lata avoids cliched Southern food — not a speck of pork on the menu — and instead uses similar preparations but with fresh herbs and spices not usually associated with seafood (per Charleston City Paper). There’s a single meat item — steak tartare — and everything else is raw or cold and hot plates. The menu changes daily, but you’ll always find a large sampling of local oysters, which Lata also piles on — along with a fisherman’s-net-full of clams, shrimp, and smoked-fish pate — his well-priced seafood towers. Crispy oyster sliders are a big hit, and look for the skate wing that’s roasted on the bone and slides off in delicate white slivers.”
10 Reasons to Visit Charleston, South Carolina
By Mark A. Leon
There are many reasons to come to Charleston, South Carolina. From family vacations to weddings, to a little tinkling of Southern Charm. Charleston is a city rich in history, culture, exquisite dining, family friendly attractions, watersports and just a relaxing escape under the sun.
For some, it is the spiritual connection with the ocean as they surf the waves, the historic setting of the first shots of the American Civil War fired, award winning dining, festivals, boating, golf or just a few days away to enjoy carriage rides or a beautiful sunset.
We have compiled ten wonderful reasons to visit Charleston, S.C. for those that have not yet made the decision to experience Southern Living at its finest and friendliest.
10 Great Reasons to Visit Charleston, South CarolinaThe beautiful
- Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge (Cooper River Bridge) – Why would a bridge be a reason to visit a tourist destination? This 2 ½ mile suspension bridge is a work of architectural majesty. Its design, views of the Charleston Harbor and haven for runners, bikers and walkers have helped it become an attraction all its own. With the addition of the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park which offers musical and movie events, fishing and romantic walks and swings, the Cooper River Bridge is a full day event and truly picturesque.
- Three waterfront area attractions in one pass:S.S Yorktown, South Carolina Aquarium and Water Taxi. With the introduction of this new single pass for three of our biggest harbor based attractions, families can enjoy oceanic life, a deep understanding of our military history and feel the cool breeze of being on the water in the Charleston Harbor. This convenient pass with make Mom, Dad and the kids happy all day long. Coming in late 2022 will be the International African American Museum.
- Craft Beer Fan Dreamland – The Lowcountry is now home to over 30 unique craft beer breweries and has quickly become one of the top beer producers in the Southeast. With careful craftsmanship and dedicated passion, the brew masters have helped to create a culture of fine beer. Partnering with local area restaurants, the ability to get a taste of the Lowcountry is right at your fingertips.
- Mouthwatering Dining – From Southern Living to Conde Nast to The Washington Post, the reputation of Charleston dining has been an area of spotlight for several years and continues to gain in credibility as more and more flock to experience a truly eloquent dining experience. Make sure you bring an appetite with your visit and do your research as we have so many great restaurants to choose from. If you need another reason, check out the Brunch Guide .
- Five Area Beaches – How many cities can boast 4 area beaches with each having its own personality and breathing ecosystem. Charleston offers Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Kiawah Beach, Folly Beach and Edisto Beach all within 45 minutes of historic downtown Charleston. It is hard to turn down city and beach life all in one visit.
- Nature Photographer’s Paradise – If you are a nature photographer, a sunrise/sunset chaser or bird photographer, you will not find a better place to beef up your portfolio. From Birds of Prey to the most spectacular sunrise and sunsets you will find, Charleston offers photographers a place of magic to capture and remember.
- Embrace History – Charleston has built a wonderful set of attractions celebrating the history of the Lowcountry and the United States. Some of the most beautiful and educational attractions include. From Charlestowne Landing to Magnolia Cemetery, the Lowcountry is so rich in history and the emphasis on remembering and celebrating it.
- Nature Walks and Parks – Charleston has put a tremendous amount of funding and effort to develop and maintain a strong system of trails and parks for exercise, picnics, walks or working. All Charleston County Parks now offer free Wi-Fi (Great for remote workers). There are many short and long nature trails to see wildlife and get some outdoor exercise (Ex: West Ashley Greenway, Caw Caw Interpretation Center, Wannamaker Park).
- Festivals Galore – Not only is Charleston known for some of the largest festivals in the Southeast and the nation including Spoleto, Festival of Lights, Annual Oyster Festival, and SEWE Festival, but festivals are just a part of who we are. This area loves to celebrate by gathering together, having fun and enjoying the great outdoors. We also understand the importance of helping others. So many festivals are aligned to fund raising activities to help those in need. Come on out for a few festivals and let us keep you company.
- Genuine Friendly Culture – Some places preach its friendliness, but we live it every day. When you walk the streets, we wave and say hello (to everyone). If you are lost, we help you find your way. If a dog needs a home, we adopt it. If your car is stuck in flooded waters, we help you push it. That is just the way we do things.
Sarah Campbell Allan, Charleston and South Carolina’s First Female Doctor
Sarah Campbell Allan was born in Charleston, S.C. on 7 December 1861 to James and Amey Sarah (Hobcraft) Allan, both immigrants to Charleston. James Allan, a native of Wick, Scotland, had arrived as a young boy with his parents in 1837. His father, Alexander, was a cabinetmaker by trade and James’s mother, Isabella, was the daughter of a Scottish schoolmaster from Thurso in Caithness. James grew to manhood in Charleston, eventually becoming a well-known jeweler and silversmith. Amey Sarah Hobcraft, born near the ancient walls of the City of London, arrived in Charleston as a young lady to visit an aunt. After a short courtship, James and Amey were married in Charleston 13 August 1856, and they had at least 11 children. Sarah Campbell Allan was their third child. Her two older siblings died young, leaving Sarah as her parents’ eldest child.
After being denied entry to the Medical College of the State of South Carolina because of her gender, she attended the Woman’s Medical College of the New York Infirmary, an institution founded by Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell and her sister, Dr. Emily Blackwell in 1868. The school closed in 1899 after Cornell University pledged to accept women medical students. Dr. Allan also completed a post-graduate year of study at Johns Hopkins University Medical School in 1895.
In October 1894, Dr. Allan took the newly instituted examinations for medical licensing in South Carolina. In her group of candidates, she was the only female present and she handily outperformed her male counterparts. She was issued license number 40, the first woman licensed to practice medicine in South Carolina.
In 1895, Governor John Gary Evans appointed Dr. Allan as Assistant Physician at the South Carolina State Lunatic Asylum under James W. Babcock. She remained in Columbia until 1907, when she resigned to return to Charleston and care for her ailing father. Although she never formally practiced medicine again, she consulted with Charleston physicians on psychiatric cases during her retirement. Dr. Allan never married and she died in Charleston on 25 February 1954.
She is buried at Magnolia Cemetery.
Nigerian Jollof Rice Meets Low Country Red Rice|Hibiscus Mule – Lowcountry Cooking with Charleston’s Chef Jolie
HIBISCUS MULE
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz hibiscus syrup (I used hibiscus flowers in syrup)
- Juice, 1/2 lime
- 1-2 oz ginger beer
- Fresh mint & lime for garnish
Add ice to a shaker with vodka, hibiscus syrup, lime juice, and ginger beer. Shake until ICE COLD! Pour into a copper mug, garnish with mint, and lime, and enjoy!
If you can’t find Hibiscus flowers in syrup like is used. Try this recipe
NIGERIAN JOLLOF RICE
Serves 4
- 2 medium red bell peppers, seeded and roughly chopped
- 1 small yellow, rough chopped (medium dice the 1/2 onion)
- 3 c meat stock (use 1 cup for blending the pepper sauce)
- 1-2 scotch bonnets or habanero peppers
- 1 c vegetable oil
- 1/2 c butter
- 1 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1 Tbsp curry powder
- 1 Tbsp dried thyme
- 2 Tbsp A Dab A Do Ya!
- 1 Tbsp Maggi or Knorr chicken base
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 1/2 c parboiled rice
METHOD
1. In a blender, blend the chopped peppers, 1/2 of the other onion (remember to save the other 1/2 onion for frying), and scotch bonnet peppers with 1 cup of stock.
2. Once blended, put in a saucepan on low to boil out the water/stock. This should take about 20 mins. The pepper sauce will be thick once done.
3. Once the pepper sauce is done, preheat a medium sized pot over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Then add vegetable oil and heat for 1-2 mins. Next, add the butter. Once the butter is almost completely melted add the onions.
4. Fry the onions for 2-3 minutes, then add the boiled pepper and onion mixture and continue frying for an additional 2-3 minutes. Then stir in, curry powder, thyme, A Dab A Do Ya!, and Maggi/Knorr seasoning. Continue stirring allowing the seasonings to cook into the mixture.
5. Stir in tomato paste and until well incorporated. On medium-low heat continue frying the mixture for 10-15 minutes.
6. Add stock, stir and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in rice, bring to a low boil and cover for 10 minutes to allow the bottom of the rice to get crispy. (creating the crispy bottom of the rice is optional).
7. After the first 10 minutes of cooking, remove the top, add bay leaves and garlic. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly with foil and lid. Cook for 25 additional minutes.
8. Uncover, fluff, remove bay leaves and enjoy with fish, chicken and your family!
LOWCOUNTRY RED RICE
Serves 6-8
INGREDIENTS
- 2 c long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 c smoked sausage, cut in ½ circles
- ½ c yellow onion, medium dice
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 ½-4 c tomato sauce
- ¼ c water
- 1-2 Tbsp A Dab A Do Ya!
- Pinch white sugar
- Pinch cayenne pepper
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
METHOD
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Preheat skillet on medium high heat for 2-3 mins
3. Add vegetable oil and heat for 2 mins.
4. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 mins. Then add sausage and sauté for an additional 3 mins.
5. Next add tomato sauce, water, A Dab A Do Ya!, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Allow tomato mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, and stir occasionally.
6. Spray a medium casserole dish with non-stick spray and add rice.
7. Using a colander, separate sausage and onions from tomato sauce.
8. Add the sausage and onion mixture to the top of the rice. Then, add about 3 cups of tomato sauce onto the rice and stir. Add butter and cover with plastic & foil and bake in a 350-degree oven for 25-30 mins.
9. After 25-30 minutes, uncover, stir, and determine if you need to add more tomato sauce. If so, add more liquid, recover and continue to bake in 7-10 min. increments. Rice should be soft and fluffy when finished.
Dr. Tonya Matthews discusses The International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, SC (New Video Interview)
Who’s on the Move presents a discussion with Dr. Tonya Matthews inside the new International African American Museum set to open in late 2022.
About the Video
Set to open in late 2022, IAAM will honor the untold stories of the African American journey from Charleston, S.C., at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf and beyond.
Downtown Charleston’s “Under The Almond Trees” Celebrates Five Years – Cinco De Mom-O
Under The Almond Trees Charleston’s premier downtown baby boutique, invites guests to celebrate their five-year anniversary by joining for their Cinco De Mom-O party on Thursday, May 5 from 4-8 p.m. benefitting Florence Crittenton Programs of SC.
Location: 190 King Street, Charleston, SC
Guests are invited to shop from 15 local vendors in and around the store, eat delicious bites from Papi Chulo food truck, a raffle, and silent auction. Florence Crittenton’s mission is to provide hope, safety, and opportunity to pregnant, parenting, and young women in foster care to instill self-worth and self-sufficiency. The nonprofit values the right of every young woman to obtain the education, skills, and support needed to have a healthy start in life – for today and tomorrow
For more information, please e-mail info@underthealmondtrees.com.
Where In the World is Jimmy Buffett? Charleston, SC
According to the official Jimmy Buffett Instagram, Jimmy is walking the streets of Charleston, SC
Let us know if you spot him!!
Source: www.Instagram.com/jimmybuffett
Gillie’s Seafood on Charleston’s James Island – Felt Like Grandma’s House with Chef Sean Mendes – New Video
New video from My Ancestry Chronicles with Di Shawn J. Gandy
On our first day in Charleston, S.C. we made sure we made our way to Gillie’s Seafood on James Island.
The Award-Winning Chef, Sean Mendes who’s been featured on the Discovery Channel, Travel Channel, and the Food Network has created what he calls an “ode to his grandmother, LaReese Gilliard.”
Chef Sean with his family serves up that Low Country-inspired food with that Gullah/Geechee hospitality that makes you feel like you’re at Grandma’s house.
If you’re ever in Charleston, S.C….be sure to pay a visit to Gillie’s Seafood, and bring your appetite and some free time, especially if Uncle Teddy’s there, to hang out and experience Gillie’s.
www.gilliesseafoodandsoul.com/
Regional Public Transportation Statement Regarding Federal Mask Mandate – Mask Requirement Suspended Effective Immediately
NORTH CHARLESTON (April 19, 2022) — Today, Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority and TriCounty Link Executive Director Ron Mitchum released the following statement regarding the Federal mask mandate
“In accordance with guidance from the Federal Transit Administration, effective immediately, CARTA and Tricounty Link have suspended mask requirements on all vehicles. Masks will continue to be made available to riders, as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that riders wear masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time.”
ABOUT CARTAThe Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is a public transportation system dedicated to providing affordable transit in the Charleston, S.C., community through local fixed routes, on-demand paratransit, and express commuter service. For the latest on CARTA, visit ridecarta.com, like us on Facebook, or follow on Twitter at @RideCARTA. All customers are encouraged to plan rides and track buses with the CARTA-endorsed Transit app.
ABOUT TRICOUNTY LINK
The TriCounty Link system is composed of nine regular fixed routes and six commuter routes providing services to rural residents of Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. The current fleet consists of 60 vehicles seating from 14 to 32 passengers.
All TriCounty Link vehicles are ADA compliant and include wheelchair lifts, and on average, two wheelchair tie-down positions per vehicle. For the latest on TriCounty Link, visit www.ridetricountylink.com and like us on Facebook.