College of Charleston Live Cam

The College of Charleston is a public liberal arts and sciences university located in Charleston, South Carolina. It has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1770, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. Here's an overview of the College of Charleston's history:

Founding and Early Years: The College of Charleston was founded on January 30, 1770, under a charter granted by King George III of England. It was originally established as a municipal college to provide education in the arts and sciences. The college's first president was Reverend Robert Smith, and classes began in 1774.

Revolutionary War and Early Struggles: The American Revolution had a significant impact on the College of Charleston. During the war, the college suspended operations, and the campus was used as a military hospital and barracks. After the war, the college faced financial difficulties and struggled to regain stability.

Expansion and Growth: In the 19th century, the College of Charleston experienced periods of expansion and growth. In 1837, the college moved to its present-day location on George Street in downtown Charleston. During this time, the college expanded its curriculum and added new academic departments.

The Civil War and Reconstruction: Like many institutions in the South, the College of Charleston was deeply affected by the Civil War. The campus was occupied by Union troops, and the college's buildings suffered significant damage. In the aftermath of the war, the college faced challenges during the Reconstruction era but managed to survive and continue its mission.

Transition to Public Institution: The College of Charleston was privately controlled until 1970 when it became a state-supported institution. This transition marked an important milestone in the college's history and allowed for increased funding and expansion of programs.

Modern Era: In recent decades, the College of Charleston has continued to grow and evolve. It has expanded its academic offerings, established new research centers, and developed a reputation for academic excellence. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Today, the College of Charleston is known for its beautiful historic campus, its strong academic programs, and its vibrant student life. It enrolls a diverse student body and has a reputation for providing a high-quality education in the arts, humanities, sciences, and professional fields. The college continues to contribute to the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of Charleston and the state of South Carolina.

Historical Facts

• Oldest Municipal College: The College of Charleston is the oldest municipal college in the United States. It was founded in 1770 and predates the establishment of public universities in the country.
• Signer of the U.S. Constitution: Charles Pinckney, one of the framers and signers of the United States Constitution, was a graduate of the College of Charleston. He played a significant role in shaping the nation's founding document.
• Connection to the American Revolution: During the American Revolution, the College of Charleston suspended classes, and its campus was used as a military hospital and barracks for British and American troops. This reflects the college's close ties to the historical events of the time.
• Historical Campus: The college's campus on George Street in downtown Charleston is renowned for its historic architecture and beautiful surroundings. Several of its buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, adding to the charm and character of the institution.
• Role in Education for Women: In the mid-19th century, the College of Charleston was one of the first higher education institutions in the South to provide education for women. The college established the Female Academy in 1855, which later became the College of Charleston's Female Branch.
• Desegregation and Civil Rights: The College of Charleston played a role in the civil rights movement in South Carolina. In 1967, it admitted its first African American students, making it one of the first white institutions in the state to integrate.
• Notable Alumni: The College of Charleston boasts a notable list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some prominent alumni include U.S. Senator Ernest "Fritz" Hollings, journalist Shepard Smith, actress Beth Behrs, and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley.
• Cultural and Intellectual Hub: Over the years, the College of Charleston has become a cultural and intellectual hub in Charleston. It hosts numerous events, lectures, and performances, attracting renowned scholars, artists, and public figures to its campus.
• Research and Academic Excellence: The college has been recognized for its research and academic programs. It has established various centers and institutes focused on specialized fields, including the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture and the Grice Marine Laboratory.
• Athletics: The College of Charleston has a rich athletic tradition. Its sports teams, known as the Cougars, compete in the NCAA Division I and are members of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The college offers a range of intercollegiate sports, including basketball, soccer, tennis, and golf.

These historical facts highlight the College of Charleston's significance as an institution deeply rooted in American history and its ongoing contributions to education and the community.

Geography

Here's some information about the geography of the college and its surroundings:

• Coastal Location: The College of Charleston is situated on the southeastern coast of South Carolina, near the Atlantic Ocean. Its location provides the college community with access to beautiful beaches and coastal areas.
• Downtown Charleston: The college's campus is located in downtown Charleston, which is known for its historic charm and well-preserved architecture. The campus is integrated into the city's urban fabric, with buildings blending seamlessly with the surrounding streets and neighborhoods.
• Historic District: The College of Charleston is situated within the Charleston Historic District, which is a designated National Historic Landmark. This area is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming gardens.
• Peninsula Location: The college is located on a narrow peninsula between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. This geographic position gives the campus a unique setting, surrounded by water and offering scenic views.
• River Access: The Ashley and Cooper Rivers play a significant role in the geography of the college. The campus is near the Ashley River, which is popular for recreational activities such as boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Barrier Islands: The College of Charleston is close to several barrier islands along the South Carolina coast. These islands, including Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms, are popular destinations for beachgoers and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
• Marshes and Wetlands: The coastal geography of Charleston includes expansive marshes and wetlands. These areas provide important ecosystems and contribute to the region's natural beauty.
• Lowcountry Region: The college is situated in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, characterized by its flat terrain, marshy landscapes, and distinct cultural heritage. The Lowcountry is known for its Gullah-Geechee culture, seafood cuisine, and Southern hospitality.
• Climate: Charleston experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.
• Proximity to other Cities: Charleston is conveniently located within a reasonable driving distance to other major cities in the region. For example, it is approximately two hours away from Savannah, Georgia, and three and a half hours away from Charlotte, North Carolina.

The geography of the College of Charleston and its surrounding area contributes to the unique atmosphere and natural beauty that make it an attractive place to study and live.