Charleston

Charleston
Settlement type	City
Nickname	The Holy City
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	South Carolina
Subdivision type2	Counties
Subdivision name2	Charleston, Berkeley
Established title	Founded
Established date	1670
Founder	Earl of Shaftesbury
Government type	Mayor–council
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	William Cogswell
Population total	150,227
Population as of	2020
Timezone	EST
Utc offset	−5
Timezone DST	EDT
Utc offset DST	−4
Postal code type	ZIP Codes
Postal code	29401–29425
Area code	843 and 854
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID
Website	www.charleston-sc.gov

Charleston. Founded in 1670 as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II, it is the oldest and largest city in the state of South Carolina. Situated on a peninsula at the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers, it is a major port on the Atlantic coast. Renowned for its well-preserved architecture, pivotal role in American history, and vibrant cultural scene, it is a leading tourist destination and a significant economic hub for the Southeastern United States.

History

Established by English colonists under the Province of Carolina, the settlement was originally located at Albemarle Point before moving to its present peninsula location. It became a wealthy center for the Atlantic slave trade and the cultivation of indigo and rice, leading to the construction of numerous plantations in the surrounding Lowcountry. The city was a focal point of Revolutionary activity, witnessing the 1776 Battle of Sullivan's Island, and later became the birthplace of secession when the Ordinance of Secession was signed here in 1860. The Civil War began with the 1861 Battle of Fort Sumter in its harbor, and the city endured a prolonged siege by Union Army forces. The devastating 1886 Charleston earthquake and the arrival of Naval Base Charleston in the 20th century further shaped its development.

Geography

The city core occupies a peninsula between the Ashley River and the Cooper River, which merge to form Charleston Harbor. This harbor opens into the Atlantic Ocean and is protected by surrounding barrier islands, including James Island, Johns Island, and the Isle of Palms. The metropolitan area encompasses parts of the South Carolina Lowcountry and the Sea Islands, featuring extensive salt marshes and tidal creeks. Notable adjacent communities include Mount Pleasant, across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and the historic town of Summerville.

Demographics

According to the 2020 United States Census, the city proper had a population of 150,227. The broader metropolitan statistical area, which includes Berkeley, Dorchester, and Charleston counties, is home to over 800,000 residents. The population is diverse, with significant African American and Gullah communities whose cultural heritage is deeply rooted in the region. Major educational institutions, including the College of Charleston and the Medical University of South Carolina, contribute to a substantial student population.

Economy

The economy is historically anchored by the Port of Charleston, one of the busiest container ports in North America, operated by the South Carolina Ports Authority. Major sectors include tourism, health care led by the Medical University of South Carolina, aerospace and advanced manufacturing with the presence of Boeing and Volvo Cars, and a growing information technology sector. The United States Department of Defense is a major employer through Naval Base Charleston and the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command. The city is also a center for historic preservation and related industries.

Culture

Often called "The Holy City" for its numerous historic church steeples, the city is famed for its Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival architecture in the Charleston Historic District. It is the birthplace of the traditional dance the Charleston and hosts major events like the Spoleto Festival USA and the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. Culinary traditions are renowned, emphasizing Lowcountry cuisine with dishes like she-crab soup and shrimp and grits. Cultural institutions include the Gibbes Museum of Art, the Charleston Museum, and Drayton Hall.

Government

The city operates under a mayor–council system. The mayor, currently William Cogswell, is elected at-large, while the twelve-member Charleston City Council is elected from single-member districts. Key municipal functions include the Charleston Police Department and the Charleston County School District, though the city and county governments are separate entities. The city is part of South Carolina's 1st congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Nancy Mace.

Category:Charleston, South Carolina Category:Port cities in South Carolina Category:Populated places established in 1670