For us? You shouldn’t have. We think living in The Holy City is the greatest gift of all, but our city has actually been on the receiving end of quite a few delightful donations. From major contributions to the arts to land donations, check out these three unique gifts given to Charleston.
Land for Charleston City Market | The land for the Charleston City Market was transferred to the City of Charleston by prominent Lowcountry figure Charles Cotesworth Pinckney in 1788, specifically for use as a marketplace — just as it is today. Now regarded as one of the oldest operating public markets in the nation, the structure has undergone drastic changes over the years, but it still serves as the perfect place for Charlestonians to spend the day browsing offerings from over 300 entrepreneurs.
$500,000 to Gibbes Museum of Art | Charleston couple Christina (a local artist) and Robert Brinkman recently donated $500,000 to support ongoing renovations and future enhancements at the museum they adore. The museum plans to expand in 2025. Before the Brinkmans came along, another generous Charlestonian paved the way. In 1888, James Shoolbred Gibbes laid the foundation for what is now a cultural hub by leaving a $100,000 trust in his will for an exhibition and learning center for the fine arts. In 1905, The Gibbes Memorial Art Gallery opened its doors, named after its biggest supporter.
Darius Rucker’s hometown donations | As the Lowcountry native has said before, ‘You gotta make some stances’... and that’s exactly what Darius Rucker has done throughout his years of fame. In 2015, Rucker and his family donated over $250,000 to help fund the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. He also co-chaired the capital campaign that raised $150 million for the hospital. Beyond that, Rucker has supported over 200 other charitable causes in SC through the Hootie & the Blowfish Foundation.
