Postcard of the Charleston Orphan House. Back of postcard reads: "The Orphan House first built in U.S. is complete in every detail and is Charleston's grandest charitable work. Was opened in 1794 and enlarged and completed in 1855. In the belfry hangs one of the city alarm bells."
Postcard of the Custom House in Charleston. Back of postcard reads: "Erection began in 1850 continuing until the Civil War arrested its progress; structure resumed and completed in 1880."
Postcard of the Old Post Office, also known as the Old Exchange Building. Back of postcard reads: "In 1680, on this site stood the guard post of the early colonists. In 1718, Stede Bonnet and other pirates were imprisoned on this site. In 1767, this building was erected as an exchange and custom house. Taxed tea was stored here and forcibly detained. It was here, in 1774, that the Provincial Congress was assembled, setting up the first independent government in America. In 1781, patriotic men and women of the Revolution were here incarcerated during the British occupation of Charleston. President George Washington was here, in 1791, entertained by his grateful countrymen."
Postcard of the Dock Street Theatre and St. Phillip's Church. Back of postcard reads: "Charleston, one of America's most Historic Cities, can lay claim to more 'firsts' than any other city in America. The first legitimate theatre in the United States was founded here when the play 'The Orphan' was presented on February 23, 1735."
Postcard of the front of the Charleston Museum. Back of postcard reads: "Oldest museum in the United States. Founded 1773. 'An educational institution operated for the people of South Carolina by the City and County of Charleston and by the contributions and memberships. Its collections include natural history and culture history material with special reference to South Carolina.'"
Postcard of the front of the Charleston Museum. Back of postcard reads: "This is the oldest museum in North America. Founded in 1773. Unexcelled collection of natural history groups and Low Country subects."
