Charleston Museum 

The Charleston Museum was founded in 1773, making it America’s first museum. War delayed the museum’s public opening, but the doors finally opened to the public in 1824. The Museum features two levels of exhibits that recounts the history of Charleston and the Lowcountry by showcasing hundreds of items ranging from ancient fossils to Civil War artifacts. 

The first level is home to the Natural History section, temporary exhibits that focus on local history and the museum’s gift shop. The second level is home to eight permanent exhibits: 

• Lowcountry History Hall - Learn about the Native Americans who first inhabited the South Carolina Lowcountry as well as the colonists and enslaved African Americans who transformed the region into an agricultural empire.
• The Armory - Showcases examples of historic weaponry, dating from 1750 to the twentieth century
• Becoming Americans - Explore Charleston's role in the American Revolution
• Charleston in the Civil War - Learn about Charleston's role in the Civil War
• Early Days - See collections from around the world including an Egyptian mummy and mummy case
  
• Kidstory - A hands-on exhibit for children where the history of Charleston comes alive
• Historic Textiles - Features regularly rotating exhibits from a rich historic textiles and clothing collection
• Charleston Silver - Showcasing the impressive work of the South’s finest silver craftsmen and women
  
  The museum also owns two historic homes, the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward Washington House, that are open to the public. Admission for each is $12 or save money by purchasing combo tickets. Limited free parking is available and paid public parking is available across the street. Allow approximately 2 hours to tour the entire museum.

Charleston Museum Photos

Charleston Museum Hours and Admission

Charleston Museum Address and Map

Current and Upcoming Events
at the Charleston Museum

What: In the Company of Animals: Pets of Charleston
When: April 6 - December 31
Where: Charleston Museum Photography Gallery
How Much: Adult $12  and Children $5 

The human-animal bond has long existed in the Holy City and many residents wanted their pets captured by the lens. Highlighting photographers such as Morton B. Paine, Franklin Frost Sams and Chansonetta Stanley Emmons, this photographic exhibit chronicles how Charlestonians spent their time in the company of animals.

What: War on Fashion
When: May 24 - December 1
Where: Textile Gallery
How Much: Adult $12  and Children $5

Fashion has always changed dramatically following worldwide periods of warfare. This exhibition will be an in-depth examination of both how and why fashion changed after the Age of Revolution, World War One, and World War Two.

Hotels Near the Charleston Museum

Embassy Suites

Hampton Inn 

The Dewberry

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