Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

PARK PROGRAMS

  • Day in the Life of a Sailor

    Maritime trade and travel were vital to the success of the young Carolina colony. Board Charleston's only reproduction 17th century sailing ketch, Adventure, docked in Old Towne Creek. Discover some of the many aspects of maritime trade and travel during the 17th century. See some of the tools used by sailors and some of the products they shipped.
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

  • Hampton Plantation Mansion Tours

    Several prominent families of Colonial and Antebellum South Carolina lived at Hampton Plantation, including Rutledges, Horrys and Pinckneys. Today, the mansion stands as a testament to the wealth and power of these families as well as the craftsmanship of the builders. Tours include a study of the architecture and evolution of the house, as seen in the open walls and unfurnished rooms, as well as personal insight into the people that called Hampton home.
    Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

  • Fall Frolic in the Animal Forest

    It's fall in the Animal Forest and the animals are looking to put on a little weight for winter. Discover how the zookeepers train the animals to better care for them. Watch the animals being enriched by games, treats and activities that bring out natural behaviors. You will also get a chance to be enriched as we have a pumpkin hunt throughout the animal forest. Join us for family fun in the "Forest."
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

  • Fears that Fortified Charles Towne - Cannon Demonstration

    During the early years of the settlement, the Charles Towne colonists faced several threats, especially from their primary enemy and colonial rival, the Spanish. The Spanish fleet at St. Augustine, Florida was within three days travel of the fledgling English colony. Charles Towne, "here settled in the very chaps of the Spaniard," was a direct challenge to the claim of this disputed land. Following a review of Charles Towne's fortifications and defenses, the program will culminate with the Charles Towne Militia living history team's demonstration of 17th century artillery.
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

  • Coloring the Colony: Indigo Dyeing Program

    The indigo has been grown, the dye has been fermented, and it’s your turn to color the colony indigo-blue. Join us to learn about the history of the plant and dye in South Carolina, then participate in dyeing your own cloth. T-shirts and bandanas for dyeing can be purchased in the gift shop, or you can bring your own from home. Gloves are provided, but you might want to wear clothes you don't mind getting stained with indigo dye.
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

  • Fears That Fortifed Charles Towne-- Musket Demonstration

    During the early years of the settlement, the Charles Towne colonists faced several threats, especially from their primary enemy and colonial rival, the Spanish. The Spanish fleet at St. Augustine, Florida was within three days travel of the fledgling English colony. Charles Towne, "here settled in the very chaps of the Spaniard," was a direct challenge to the claim of this disputed land. Following a review of Charles Towne's fortifications and defenses, the program will culminate with a demonstration of 17th century small arms.
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

  • Ceremonies of the Cultures

    December is a month full of traditions, celebrations, and family gatherings. Come to Charles Towne Landing during the month of December and imagine the English colonists’ first Christmas in the New World. Speak with costumed interpreters in the indentured servants’ quarters to learn about traditional English customs and how those may have been modified in the new colony. Visit the Native American Ceremonial center to learn about Native American stories and spiritual traditions. Storytellers will also bring to life some of South Carolina’s early African-American stories and traditions that they brought to Carolina, helping to shape Charles Towne’s culture.
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

  • Christmas Through the Ages

    Christmas is a time of tradition and celebration. From baking cookies to decorating trees, families have enjoyed Christmas customs in the Lowcountry for over 300 years. Please join Hampton Plantation in celebrating this wonderful season by exploring the history of Christmas traditions in the Lowcountry. Take a tour of an 18th-century plantation mansion and learn where some of our customs came from. Visit with Santa in the plantation ballroom. Enjoy dramatic readings of classic Christmas tales, try your hand at making your very own Christmas card, and join park staff in creating new Christmas traditions of your very own!
    Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

  • Enrichment Day in the Animal Forest

    Environmental enrichment is the process of providing new smells, tastes, objects and activities for zoo animals. These things frequently bring out "playful" and natural behaviors. Enrichment Day gives you an opportunity to discover our secrets to keeping the animals healthy and happy. See how our keepers train the bears and otters using enrichment techniques. Join in the "Forage for Fun" game for your chance to win prizes. Enrichment Day is a fun day for our animals and for you. When it's over, you can take some of these ideas home to use with your own pets!
    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Contact Information

1950 Rutledge RD
McClellanville,SC 29458
Phone: (843) 546-9361
Fax: (843) 527-4995
Charleston CountyMcClellanville