Charlestown, SC

Weather: Partly cloudy; N wind @ 15 to 20 knots; temperature range 64 to 74 degrees.

Comment:
Everyone was up at 0800 and we set out for downtown at 1000 hours.

As we were driving toward the Maritime Area of Charlestown, we happened upon several trailers parked on the shoulder of the street. The RV’s had their “slides” in the open position. That seemed odd because the slide out rooms stuck out into the traffic lane. We also saw some cameras and lighting fixtures. As we reached to front of the RV’s we saw people “milling about,” starring down the sidewalk toward us. Looking to the right, we saw a couple walking hand in hand down the sidewalk. A cameraman was matching the couple stride for stride while staring into the view finder. Our black Saturn Vue was clearly in the background of the shot. Perhaps in a year or two you’ll see us in a “major motion picture!”

We arrived at the Fort Sumter dock to find 20 knot winds that stirred up white caps and a stiff chop in the harbor. It was a bit too rough to take the kids on the boat ride to Fort Sumter. We opted instead for the IMAX Theatre. The plan was to find a place where Rosie could take a nap but Josh could find something interesting to see. The plan was foiled when we saw the sign on the IMAX door that informed us that the theatre is “CLOSED.” If we wanted a ticket refund, we should call the listed number. It seems that the theatre is permanently closed!

Having studied the tourist literature in our possession, we decided to lunch at Magnolia’s on East Bay Avenue. We left the car in the parking garage and opted for the trolley to take us to the restaurant and marketplace. The old restaurant provided causally elegant dining and boasted “the best southern fried chicken” you’ll even eat. Sandi, Matt and I were up for the challenge. Anna Marie chose the southern bar-b-que shoulder of pork sandwichs. They were served on three mini-buns. She reported that it was a tad too spicy for her taste. Sandi, Matt and I gushed over the southern fried chicken. The chicken was moist, fried to a delicate golden brown, with a light bread covering. The sides included mashed potatoes with sausage gravy, creamed corn and collard greens. Besides the chicken, the creamy corn was spectacular, if you can rave about a side dish. It was stripped fresh off the cob and was lightly creamed. The collard greens were steamed and had a slightly spicy taste.

The meal was spectacular. If you are even in Charlestown, Magnolia’s is a must!

After lunch, we strolled in the marketplace and bought a few souvenirs for Josh. We then hoofed it back to the car and made to two mile ride back to the marina. The Foster’s visited for a while, but in no time, it was time to pack up and make the 2 ½ hour ride back to Myrtle Beach. I suppose the next time we see them will be after Christmas. Good-Bye Sandi, Matt, Joshie, and Rosie!