Uncover the hidden history of Charles Towne Landing!

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site offers a rich archaeological record of major importance to the state of South Carolina. Archaeological evidence suggests continual human occupation for at least 6000 years. Excavations at the park have provided clues to the daily lives of Native Americans, European settlers, and African slaves. The first excavations at the park were undertaken in 1967 and the archaeology program continues today.

Our research has located archaeological evidence of Native American shell middens, camp sites, villages, and a ceremonial center. Colonial period evidence revealed an early palisade, household artifacts and a possible domestic structure. Revolutionary War earthen fortifications, eighteenth century plantation house and outbuildings, vineyards, slave quarters, a barn complex, tavern, and tar kilns, have also been recovered through archaeology.

Archaeology provided direction needed to recreate a portion of the seventeenth century palisade and earthen fortifications. Currently plans are underway to begin a large-scale excavation on the western palisade wall of the fortified area. This will provide research needed to complete the recreation of the palisade wall built by the Charles Towne residents during the early years of the settlement.

The park has a thriving archaeology volunteer program and offers summer college internships for credit. Weekly archaeology programs are offered and excavations are open to park guests.