The Originals: A City of Firsts

  • Fall Tours
  • Walking Tour, History & Architecture
  • October 8, 2025 10:00am EDT
  • October 23, 2025 2:00pm EDT
Charleston Library Society
164 King Street
Charleston, SC 29401

From America’s first theater and the earliest golf course to the oldest museum and beyond

Discover Charleston’s rich history through its many “firsts” and “oldests” – from America’s first theater and the earliest golf course to the oldest museum and beyond. Join local tour guide Lee Ann Bain as she brings to life captivating stories of pioneering Charlestonians like Robert Mills, Jonathan Jasper Wright, and Henrietta Johnston.

Learn how their groundbreaking achievements shaped not only Charleston but also their respective fields, making this tour a unique journey through innovation and legacy. 

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Tour Information:

  • Location: The tour will meet at and depart from the steps of the Charleston Library Society, located at 164 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
  • Parking: The nearest parking garages are located at 85  and 93 Queen Street, approximately a 3-minute walk away from the meeting point. Street parking is generally also available in the surrounding neighborhoods, but limited to 1-2 hour for non-residents – please abide by all street signage and parking regulations. 
  • Restrooms: Public restrooms are available inside the 85 and 93 Queen Street parking garages.
  • Check-In: Check-in takes place at the meeting location at the beginning of the tour. There are no physical tickets, and printed confirmations are not required. All guests will be checked in will-call style using the first and last name on the ticket order.  
  • Other: Tours last between 2-2.5 hours and typically require 6 or more blocks of walking, often over uneven streets and sidewalks. No interiors are included. We suggest wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a bottle of water.  
  • Weather: Tours go on rain or shine. Prepare for inclement weather, if forecasted. The Preservation Society reserves the right to cancel the tours if dangerous or threatening conditions arise. If the tour is cancelled by the PSC, all ticket holders will be contacted, and refunds will be available.  
  • Cancellations & Refunds: All sales are final. Refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis until September 1. After September 1, guests who notify the office in advance may either exchange their tickets for a comparable tour if space is available or convert their tickets to a tax-deductible charitable donation. Most tours run a waitlist once sold out – if you are no longer able to attend, please let us know so your space may be released.