Mount Pleasant History and Culture

Locals and Owners of Mount Pleasant Real Estate Compose Historical Community

Founded in 1680 by a group of English settlers, Mount Pleasant is situated on a neck of land bounded by Charleston Harbor, Shem Creek and Cove Inlet. Many of the town’s current families descended from these early pioneers.

By the mid-1800s, Mount Pleasant was well-known as an ideal summer resort. But that serenity was interrupted in 1861 with the shots fired off Charleston’s battery toward Fort Sumter marked the beginning of the Civil War. All of Mount Pleasant’s able-bodied men signed up to support the cause, while many of their families left for towns further inland to wait out the war and the rigors of Reconstruction.

By the late 1800s, the people of Mount Pleasant had bounced back to their industrious businesses of farming and shipping. A writer for the News and Courier declared: “Mount Pleasant cannot be excelled as a resort for the summer or winter tourist as an annual residence.”  Boasting “all the attractions of the North,” the town’s list of assets included “boating, bathing, fishing, hunting, and shady pleasant drives.”

Despite the phenomenal growth of this bustling Southern community, it is impossible to overlook the unique blend of history and progress found in Mount Pleasant today. Remaining ever-proud of its heritage, Mount Pleasant continues to move its nearly 60,000 residents thoughtfully into the future. Perhaps that’s one reason why newcomers to Mount Pleasant represent such a rich mix of people, from retirees to baby boomers to growing families. There truly is something for everyone in Mount Pleasant.

Active adults love the view from the new Arthur Ravenel Bridge, when they strap on their running shoes and compete in the annual Cooper River Bridge Run and Walk. The best organized and the best conducted 10-K race in the world, the journey begins in Mount Pleasant, crosses the Cooper River Bridge, and ends in historic downtown Charleston. Held on the first weekend in April, this event continues to attract more and more participants from around the world each year.

The end of April hails the annual Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival. Held at Alhambra Hall overlooking Charleston Harbor, the event features a variety of local seafood dishes presented by area restaurant; music, and shagging, the official dance of South Carolina. This unique festival gives visitors to the area insight into the local shrimping industry.

Every October, the Town Mount Pleasant greets thousands of local children to the Children’s Day Festival at the Park West Recreation Complex, located on U. S. Hwy. 17 North. Kids of all ages enjoy activities including tethered balloon rides, pony excursions, laser tag games, wall climbing and much more.