**Middleton Place Charleston SC: America's Oldest Landscaped Garden**

Introduction

Middleton Place is a historic plantation and National Historic Landmark in Charleston County, South Carolina. Established in 1741 by Henry Middleton, it is the oldest landscaped garden in America and a living testament to the grandeur and hospitality of the antebellum South.

The Gardens

The gardens at Middleton Place are a true masterpiece of landscape design. Originally designed in the English Baroque style, they have been continuously cultivated and modified over the centuries. Today, they encompass over 65 acres of lush gardens, including:

• The Terrace Gardens: These formal gardens feature intricate parterres, fountains, and sculptures, evoking the elegance of a European palace.
• The Camellia Gardens: Boasting over 300 varieties of camellias, these gardens offer a breathtaking bloom from late winter to early spring.
• The Rose Gardens: A symphony of colors and fragrances, the rose gardens are home to over 1,000 rose bushes, including many heirloom varieties.
• The Butterfly Lakes: These picturesque lakes are surrounded by blooming water lilies and host a vibrant population of butterflies.
• The Oak Allée: A majestic avenue lined with towering live oak trees, the Oak Allée offers a tranquil and awe-inspiring path through the gardens.

The Plantation House

The Middleton Place Plantation House is a testament to the architectural grandeur of the 18th century. Built in 1755, the house is a three-story brick mansion with a distinctive Palladian façade. Its interior has been meticulously restored to its original splendor and features original furnishings, artwork, and personal belongings of the Middleton family.

The Slave Quarters

Middleton Place is also home to a number of restored slave quarters from the antebellum period. These structures provide a sobering reminder of the complex and often harsh realities of life on a plantation. Visitors can learn about the lives of the enslaved people who worked and lived here, gaining a deeper understanding of the history and legacy of slavery in the United States.

Things to Do

In addition to admiring the gardens, visitors to Middleton Place can enjoy a variety of activities, including:

• Guided Tours: Guided tours of the gardens and plantation house offer insights into the history, architecture, and horticulture of this historic site.
• Boat Trips: Take a boat trip through the tranquil Black River, offering stunning views of the rice paddies and wetlands that surround the plantation.
• Picnics: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the shade of the Oak Allée or on the banks of the Ashley River.
• Shopping: Visit the gift shop for souvenirs, books, and garden-themed items inspired by Middleton Place.

History

Middleton Place has a rich and storied history. It was established by Henry Middleton, a wealthy planter and signer of the Declaration of Independence. Over the centuries, the plantation has been owned by several prominent families, including the Middletons, the Trapiers, and the Cunninghams.

During the American Civil War, Middleton Place was occupied by Union forces and used as a hospital and training ground. The plantation suffered significant damage during the war, but it was later restored to its former glory.

Conservation and Preservation

Middleton Place is a protected historic site and conservation area. The gardens are managed to preserve their original design and plant materials, while the plantation house and slave quarters have been meticulously restored to their original condition.

The Middleton Place Foundation, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to preserving and maintaining this historic treasure. Through educational programs, research, and conservation efforts, the Foundation ensures that Middleton Place remains a vibrant and living legacy for generations to come.

Visiting Middleton Place

Middleton Place is open to the public seven days a week. Admission tickets include access to the gardens, plantation house, and slave quarters, as well as guided tours.

Address:

4300 Ashley River Road
Charleston, SC 29414

Hours:

Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission:

Adults: $26
Seniors (65+): $22
Students (14-18): $14
Children (6-13): $7
Children under 6: Free

Customer Analysis

Middleton Place is a popular destination for tourists, history buffs, and garden enthusiasts alike. Visitors come from all over the world to experience the beauty and historical significance of this iconic landmark.

Target Audience:

• Tourists interested in American history and culture
• Garden enthusiasts looking for inspiration
• Families seeking a unique and educational day trip
• History buffs interested in the antebellum South and the legacy of slavery
• Art and architecture enthusiasts

Wants and Needs:

• Access to beautiful and well-maintained gardens
• Opportunities to learn about the history of Middleton Place and the antebellum South
• A chance to experience the grandeur of a historic plantation
• Educational programs and resources for children and adults
• A memorable and enriching experience

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When visiting Middleton Place, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Not planning ahead: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. Visit the Middleton Place website to purchase tickets online and avoid lines.
• Not wearing comfortable shoes: The gardens are extensive, so it is important to wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Not bringing sunscreen and insect repellent: South Carolina summers can be hot and humid, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Not bringing water: There are limited water fountains in the gardens, so bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Not respecting the historical significance of the site: Middleton Place is a historic site, so it is important to be respectful of the property and its history.

Step-by-Step Approach to Visiting Middleton Place

Follow these steps to make the most of your visit to Middleton Place:

1. Purchase your tickets online: This will save you time and hassle at the entrance.
2. Arrive early: This will give you plenty of time to explore the gardens and plantation house.
3. Take a guided tour: Guided tours provide insights into the history, architecture, and horticulture of Middleton Place.
4. Explore the gardens at your own pace: Allow plenty of time to wander through the gardens and enjoy the beauty of the plants and flowers.
5. Visit the plantation house: The plantation house is a magnificent example of 18th-century architecture and offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of the former residents.
6. Visit the slave quarters: These restored structures provide a sobering reminder of the history of slavery in America.
7. Enjoy a picnic lunch: Pack a lunch and enjoy it in one of the designated picnic areas.
8. Visit the gift shop: The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, books, and garden-themed items.
9. Respect the historical significance of the site: Be respectful of the property and its history.

Tables

| Table 1: Annual Visitation to Middleton Place |
|---|---|
| Year | Number of Visitors |
| 2019 | 400,000 |
| 2020 | 300,000 (due to COVID-19 pandemic) |
| 2021 | 350,000 |
| 2022 | 425,000 |
| 2023 (projected) | 450,000 |

| Table 2: Revenue Sources for Middleton Place |
|---|---|
| Source | Percentage |
| Admission Tickets | 65% |
| Guided Tours | 20% |
| Gift Shop | 10% |
| Special Events | 5% |

| Table 3: Educational Programs Offered at Middleton Place |
|---|---|
| Program | Description |
| Garden Walks | Guided tours of the gardens, focusing on horticulture and history |
| Plantation History Talks | Lectures on the history of Middleton Place and the antebellum South |
| Slave Quarters Tours | Guided tours of the restored slave quarters, providing insights into the lives of enslaved people |
| School Field Trips | Educational programs designed for students of all ages, focusing on history, science, and the arts |

| Table 4: Conservation Efforts at Middleton Place |
|---|---|
| Project | Description |
| Garden Restoration | Ongoing restoration and maintenance of the gardens to preserve their original design and plant materials |
| Plantation House Conservation | Preservation and restoration of the plantation house, including structural repairs and interior updates |
| Slave Quarters Restoration | Restoration of the slave quarters to their original condition, providing a living memorial to the enslaved people who lived and worked at Middleton Place |
| Land Conservation | Acquisition and conservation of surrounding land to protect the historical integrity and natural beauty of Middleton Place |