For centuries Charlestonians have walked down Meeting Street in style, showing off the latest fashion on their feet. Now, as visitors and locals alike hit Meeting Street with the opening of Charleston's Museum Mile, the Charleston Museum offers a special new exhibit, History in Every Step. On exhibit March 1 - September 1, 2008, History in Every Step presents an array of historic footwear and walking sticks from the Museum's permanent collection.
Among the ninety pairs of shoes in this exhibit are a pair of 18th century white satin pumps, purple kid slippers worn to a ball for Lafayette, and black satin straights distinguished by the handwritten droit and gauche for right and left. Mid 19th century gaiters sporting a "new" elastic gusset and high-button leather boots are perfect for a springtime stroll. Beaded pumps usher in the 20th century giving way to practical laced oxfords. Spectator pumps and saddle oxfords contrast with evening shoes worn by Nancy Moore (Thurmond) as Miss South Carolina in 1965. The men are not forgotten with a sampling of boots, loafers and needlepoint slippers. And children's shoes reflect the materials and styles worn by the adults.
The Museum in its earlier days collected artifacts from around the world. A sampling of shoes from Japanese getas and Chinese Lotus slippers to Turkish baboosh, give us a peek into footwear from other cultures.
Elaborate and inscribed walking sticks accompany the display of shoes. These range from a hand-carved stick with a snake and alligator to one given to Dr. William Mazyck Memminger by the citizens of Glasgow, Montana for his service during a diphtheria epidemic. Several even conceal swords!
03/01/2008 - 09/01/2008
