Charleston is one of the most historically significant cities in the US and played a pivotal role in the American Civil War, both as the birthplace of secession and as a key battleground throughout the conflict. From the firing on Fort Sumter, which marked the start of the war, to enduring Union blockades and bombardments, Charleston was at the heart of the war in the South. Our fascinating full-day tour is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of this chapter of American history, offering privileged access to the key sites and stories of how the war unfolded in the Holy City and how it shaped Charleston for centuries to come.
On this private walking tour, you will:
- Immerse yourself in the history of Charleston and its role in the Civil War;
- Enjoy the personalized attention of your knowledgeable local guide;
- Discover the circumstances that led to South Carolina becoming the first state to secede from the Union at the Institute Hall;
- Walk along Charleston’s iconic waterfront to The Battery and hear how it was a strategic defensive position throughout the war;
- Pass through White Point Garden to see the cannons, monuments, and historic mansions;
- Hear riveting stories of Confederate defences and Union naval blockades;
- Pass by the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon and hear about its use as a during the war;
- Uncover key sites in the Historic district related to the Civil War, including the Fireproof building, Dock Street Theatre and St. Michael’s Church;
- Hop on the ferry for a visit to Fort Sumter, the site where the first shots were fired in April 1860;
- Get an introduction to this decisive bombardment as you cruise across Charleston Harbor;
- Disembark at Fort Sumter National Monument, where you’ll have time to explore its well-preserved ruins and museum exhibits detailing the fort’s role in the war;
- Learn how Confederate forces held this strategic outpost until it was reclaimed by Union Forces in 1865;
- Sail back to Charleston while taking in panoramic views of the waterfront.
Step back in time and explore Charleston’s pivotal role in the Civil War on this engaging private tour led by a local history expert guide. This immersive experience takes you through the heart of the Holy City, uncovering the stories of secession, battle, and resilience that shaped the course of American history. Your journey begins in Washington Square, where the echoes of the past still linger among its historic buildings. You will pass by the site of the former Institute Hall, where delegates signed the decisive Ordinance of Secession, making South Carolina the first state to leave the Union. Nearby, the Fireproof Building, Dock Street Theatre, and St. Michael’s Church reveal layers of history, from political intrigue to the everyday lives of Charlestonians during the war.
You will continue toward the Battery, walking along Charleston’s iconic waterfront, where historic cannons and monuments tell the story of the city’s fortifications and its role in Confederate defence. While there, your guide will lead you on a stroll through White Point Garden, offering a closer look at the artillery that once protected the harbour and the stately mansions that witnessed the turmoil of war.
You will then delve deeper into Charleston’s past at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, where you will learn how this key Charleston landmark was affected by the war. After a pause for lunch (not included), the tour continues to Liberty Square, where a ferry awaits to take you across Charleston Harbor to the legendary Fort Sumter, with pre-purchased tickets allowing for a seamless start to your journey. As you cruise across the harbour, your guide will set the scene for the fateful events of April 1861, when the first shots of the Civil War rang out. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the National Park Rangers before setting out to explore the well-preserved ruins and museum exhibits that recount the fort’s strategic importance as well as the battles that ensued. You will discover how Confederate forces managed to hold this vital outpost for much of the war before it was finally reclaimed by Union troops in 1865.
As you sail back to Charleston, you’ll have the chance to take in the panoramic views of the city’s waterfront, reflecting on how this historic port became a battleground for a nation divided. Your guide can explain how the events of the Civil War left their mark on Charleston and how the city transformed during the Reconstruction era. With expert insights, captivating stories, and access to some of the most significant sites of the war, you’ll be enthralled by this deep dive into Charleston’s Civil War history.
Please note that tour guides are not allowed to guide in Fort Sumter. Your guide will give you a detailed explanation during the ferry ride and then silently accompany you through the museum. Upon arrival, you will receive an informational briefing from a National Park Ranger. Throughout the visit, your guide will be able to answer questions you may have, but not actually “guide” you through the fort and its exhibits.
