This website was created for Walter Hiott in order to share his love of Charleston and the area of South Carolina that is referred to as the Lowcountry.
As a native Charlestonian, Walter Hiott has a deep respect for the city and her people. And with a wealth of sandy beaches, historical sites, scenic plantations, intriguing architecture, and amazing restaurants, he is not alone. In 2013, Charleston was named the number one tourist destination in America by Travel and Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler. It was also named the number two US city for destination weddings. But a lively social scene and historic American sites aren’t the only things that draw Walter Hiott to Charleston. His family has deep roots in the area. Walter’s ancestors have lived in the Lowcountry of South Carolina since the 1700’s and possibly earlier.
With simply a stroll through Charleston, one can easily see why the city has recently been rated so highly. Another thing someone might notice while wandering about is that it feels like almost a timeless city. One might notice certain flashes of contemporary life, like a tourist on a cell phone, or a brand new type of automobile, but these will be in the midst of an old city, grounded in history, that refuses to let go of its heritage. The term “old” in the previous sentence is not meant in any sort of derogatory way that suggests decay, but rather in a charming and venerable way, meant to suggest that the whole city is like one big, beautiful antique.
Despite her age, Charleston is thriving, as the previously mentioned ratings indicate. In terms of what it offers to visitors, it is contemporary enough to be thoroughly stimulating, while at the same time it is able to remain, in character and in personality, rooted in its history.
According to Hiott, Charlestonians have a real aversion to tearing down buildings, and a patient hope and passion for restoring them. In this way, it stands in stark contrast to a city like New York. It seems that in Charleston, people will go to extraordinary lengths to save and renovate buildings rather than replace them. This philosophy has become such an integral part of Charleston’s culture and has greatly contributed to the city’s ambiance. And if you see these old houses and buildings while meandering about on a warm summer evening, you will certainly be grateful for this.
As you read further about this wonderful city, or better yet if you travel there yourself, it will become clear why Walter Hiott and many others love Charleston so much.
