To know the Charleston Trident area is to be captivated by its history. Built on 300 years of triumphs and failures and blessed with an abundance of unique ante-bellum architecture, this gracious and beautiful Southern city holds tightly to her rich traditions and elegant style.
In April of 1670, 148 European settlers landed on the banks of the Ashley River on a site that they soon named "Charles Towne" in honor King Charles II of England. By the end of their first decade on the land, the settlement was moved to the city's present location, a peninsula of land between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. The large harbor was excellent for trade and commerce, and a plan for the new town, known as the "Grand Modell," was sent from England as a guide for laying out streets and fortifying the settlement against invasions from both land and sea.
It was shortly after 1719, when King George I declared Carolina a royal colony and the city adopted its present name, that Charleston began to gain a reputation as a land of opportunity, bringing increased wealth and the development of the arts into the area. A good many of the houses, theaters and churches that were built in the city at this time are an important part of the city's landscape today, and residents and visitors continue to enjoy a thriving arts community.
Through the late 18th and 19th Centuries, Charleston played an important role in many of the country's defining events. In March of 1776, South Carolina's leaders set up an independent government and seceded from Great Britain, and in August of the same year, four Carolinians signed the Declaration of Independence. Almost a century later, the first shots of the Civil War rang over Charleston Harbor. By the end of the war in 1865, Charleston stood badly damaged in the wake of defeat.
Over the last twenty years, the Charleston Trident region has hit full stride. Called "the best kept secret of the South" less than 15 years ago, the Charleston Trident area is definitely no secret today. New "settlers" are arriving in the area every day. Looking beyond its history, they are finding a thriving community moving full speed ahead into the future.
Geographical Overview
A 3,163-square mile region located at the southern-most end of Interstate 26, along South Carolina's seaboard.
Economic Overview
The port city of Charleston has grown into one of the major centers of trade and commerce on the Southeastern seaboard.
Climate
With an average annual temperature of about 65 degrees Charleston is both a great tourist destination and place to live.
Art & Culture
Charleston is home to some of the country's oldest cultural treasurers.
Education
There are four school districts serving approximately 90,000 students in the Charleston metropolitan area.
Religion
There are more than 250 churches and synagogues in the metropolitan Charleston area
Sports and Recreation
Golf, fishing and boating of all kinds are part and parcel of the Charleston "lifestyle."
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