The Horry County Museum and the Horry County Historical Society present a lecture and book signing by J. Grahame Long on Saturday, January 28th, on his book Dueling in Charleston: Violence Refined in the Holy City.
Though no landmarks or memorials formally recognize dueling in Charleston, it remains a quintessential element of the Holy City’s legacy. Most upstanding locals nourished the duelist’s tradition, many going so far as to make it an integral part of their social lives. For a time, even the most casual character insults or slurs toward one’s moral fiber or family lineage invited a challenge, and almost always, the offended party was expected to retaliate. Thus, finding full expression in frequency and public acceptance throughout the Lowcountry, a gentleman’s duel was a crucial–albeit deadly–matter of taste and caste. For two centuries, Charlestonians dueled habitually, settling personal grievances with malice instead of mediation. Charleston historian J. Grahame Long presents a charming portrait of this dreadfully civilized custom.
The program will begin at 1 pm in the McCown Auditorium located at 805 Main Street, Conway SC. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 843-915-5320 or email hcgmuseum@horrycounty.org. To view a full list of programs, visit our website at www.horrycountymuseum.org.