A look at how Charleston claimed its official city status

Did you know? On Aug. 13, 1783, the settlement known as Charles Town (also spelled Charles Towne) was officially + legally formed.

Here’s a look at how we got here:

• The settlement was founded and settled in April 1670 and was originally located on the west bank of the Ashley River and called Albemarle Point. Fun fact: This site is now a state park.
• In the spring of 1680, the city moved to what was called Oyster Point, where it still stands today. The name Charles Town was adopted to honor King Charles II of England.
• On Aug. 13, 1783, the city took on its current name, Charleston. State Senate President John Lloyd and House Speaker Hugh Rutledge signed the bill establishing the city.

So although today isn’t when the city was founded, it is the day the city became official, and we think that’s worth celebrating.