Scenes of Shem Creek History and Shrimp Walking Tour

5.0 (191 reviews) Charleston, USA
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Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

This walking tour led by Captain Bryan is not your average "sit there and shut up" tour where the guide won't even remember you. Rather, after brief introduction, Captain Bryan will lead you on a historic journey of how Shem Creek came to prominence with its famous shrimping fleet and much more. Unlike any other tour in the area, guests have a chance to see the industry at work. The first half of the tour will contain history of the area and discuss events back to the early 1700's, the second half of the tour will specifically cover the Shrimp Industry. This is not a tour, it is an experience to immerse yourself in the Shem Culture. Take back history, culture, language, but most of all guests will take from this experience an underlying appreciation for our local shrimpers and the history behind these hard working men and women.

What's included

  • Small prize at end of the tour

What to expect

  1. 15m
    Guests will take Mary Street to get a overview of the Charleston Harbor and the changes this seaside community would endure due to conflict, natural disasters, and insect infestations.
  2. 5m
    Guest will pass by the home of the first commercial shrimper on Shem Creek and see the "shrimp shacks." Where the original shrimpers used to live in this historic neighborhood.
  3. Shem Creek
    10m
    Guests will walk by the Captain Peter Lewis House (1855) and discuss the importance of the ferry system that once operated on Shem Creek.
  4. 10m
    Guest will view the Hibben House, the oldest structure standing in the Town and dating back to the mid 1700's. History will allow us to understand how commercial shrimping would begin in the area.
  5. 10m
    Guests will see an assortment of locally sourced seafood at this generational family facility and discuss the decline of this important fishery. How the town went from nearly 100 trawlers down to 4 by 1998.
  6. Shem Creek Park
    15m
    Guests will traverse the boardwalk to see the Shrimp Trawlers and learn how they operate. We will finish the tour with a cast net demonstration to learn how to catch your own shrimp!

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We meet on corner of Coleman Blvd and Mill street outside of the public parking garage/office. It is the only 4 story office building in the immediate area. There is a circular flower arrangement on that corner that I will be near with a grey hat and tour guide badge on.

End point

The tour ends a short walk away from starting location on a beautiful public boardwalk that is next to the creek where guests have the opportunity to explore further.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Walking distance is around 1.5 miles. Please note especially with summer heat that guests should be able to walk this distance.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (191)
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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Operated by Charleston Historic Tours LLC · Booked through Viator
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