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The city limits of Charleston extend across the Ashley
River to an area known to locals as West Ashley. In fact,
it is the place where the English colonists established
the first permanent settlement in the Carolinas in 1670
along the banks of the Ashley River. Today the place where
the settlers first stepped ashore, Charles Towne Landing
State Historic Site, is among South Carolina’s most
outstanding natural and historic parks, with 663-acres
that feature a reproduction 17th century sailing vessel,
natural habitat zoo and beautiful Lowcountry vistas. It
is also a favorite play and picnic spot for families from
across the Charleston area
Also among West Ashley’s historic treasures are
three of the area’s most visited plantations, Drayton
Hall, Middleton Place, and Magnolia Plantation and Its
Gardens. But amidst this historic fabric, West Ashley
is a thriving urban community with a population that has
more than doubled since 1960 – a testament to the
area’s livability.
Many of the neighborhoods closest to downtown Charleston
feature charming brick cottages, many of which have been
renovated in recent years. Other established neighborhood
wind through hundred year old live oak trees, with some
home sites that feature sweeping views of the marsh or
access to the Ashley River.
West Ashley has also kept up with the times. Modern neighborhoods
with the latest amenities continue to spring up, offering
an ample range of home options, from marsh- or river-front
condominiums to estate-sized mansions.
The area west of the Ashley River has successfully intermingled
businesses with family-style living. Shopping at one of
the largest malls in the Charleston area, or at a number
of strip centers that line the major thoroughfares offers
close-at-hand conveniences to residents of many West Ashley
neighborhoods. The area is also blessed with its share
of eating establishments, from pizza or burgers, to fine
dining in style, anything the taste buds desire is nearby.
And of course, West Ashley has convenient access to all
the rich historic, arts and cultural opportunities just
across a short bridge in the city center. It is an easy
commute to downtown Charleston for work, a dinner meeting,
or an evening stroll. |
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