Boone Hall Plantation

Last Updated on September 12, 2023 by

Boone Hall is located about 10 miles north of Charleston in Mount Pleasant. Sadly, it has no relation to the wine, but they do grow nearly every vegetable known to man. It is a plantation after all. In fact, it is the oldest continuously operating farm in the country, founded in 1681 and working right through the Civil War. The entrance to the plantation is fantastic, with 48 live oaks lining the way. They were planted when the farm first came into operation and todays visitors are treated to an entry grander by far than even the original owners could have imagined. I’m not sure it’s one of the most spectacular drives in the world as the plantation claims, but it is pretty special.

The current house was built in 1936 and once again my vision of the southern plantation was dashed. The current home is larger by far than the original construction but still nothing close to Rhett and Scarlett’s digs (although it does come pretty close), and these people were uber wealthy. Hollywood is ruining history, among so many other things.

At one point, after indigo and cotton crops stopped being profitable, nearly 15,000 pecan trees were planted as the new cash crop. Two hurricanes put an end to nearly the entire grove and they now grow vegetables of all types. This Live Oak did manage to survive though.

A 30 minute tractor ride touring the property took us through mostly wooded area before entering into the active gardens. Not theses tractors, but they are on display on property.

It did not occur to me until the tour guide pointed it out that the entire forest was once 738 acres of cotton field prior to the Civil War. Unless you are from farm country, the scale of the plantation is tough to get your head around.

When your tractor tour is complete, head over to the mansion for a quick tour and stroll of the grounds.

When that is complete, take a moment to get your head right and walk over to see how the other half lived – literally. There are nine original slave cabins on property built between 1790 and 1810 and each is now dedicated to telling the story of different aspects of slave life. It is not easy, but should not be missed.

To lift your spirits after touring the plantation, there is a fruit stand just outside the gate. Get some strawberries. They may be some of the best I have ever had.