I was in Charleston for the weekend and I had a chance to visit the Magnolia Gardens and Plantation .

It is the oldest public garden in America and is stunningly beautiful. It is also filled with History .

I took the “Slavery to Freedom Tour ” and learned about the history of slavery in Charleston and specific to Magnolia Plantations.

It was heart breaking to listen to how the slaves were treated. Had a chance to see the cabins they lived in . I couldn’t even stand to be in the cabins for more than a few minutes- it was musty and suffocating. When I went it was May . Not too cold or too hot . I can only imagine what it must be like in the middle of winter or middle of summer !

I also visited the plantation owner’s house at the plantation. Beautifully build and perfect for catching the breeze .

Some reflection on the tour made me marvel at the human mind and spirit ! To treat other human beings in such manner and cause suffering takes a cruel hurt or blinded views . To persevere in such conditions with happiness and to find strength to carry on takes will power .

It was a bit startling to realize that in Charleston people of colour had to step aside in the side walk for white person less than 50 years ago !

The plantation History gave me a chance to see the best and the worst in humanity!

Some photos below from the Magnolia Gardens and Plantation. These were the cabins the slaves lived in :