Discovering a Piece of Civil War History
After spending five days in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, we pulled into Charleston on Easter Saturday for three days of exploring the historic city. Established around 50 years after the Mayflower landed at Plymouth Rock, Charleston became a vibrant port city, famous for exporting rice and cotton, and infamous as the epicenter of slave trade.
Our Saturday agenda included a ferry ride and tour of Fort Sumter where the Civil War officially began. This terrible war, which freed around four million enslaved people, also cost the lives of over a half million people. Touring the fort grounds was a sobering reminder of the evil of slavery and the devastating cost—on so many levels—of war.
We’ve all heard the saying, “It’s a small world!” That was our experience upon entering Charleston. We knew our friends, the Robinsons, were planning a family trip to the city that would partially coincide with our time there. While waiting in line to board the ferry, which would transport us to Fort Sumter, I sent a quick text to Stephen. “Hope your family is having a wonderful time in Charleston. We’re here now and in line to go tour Fort Sumter.” Only minutes later, Jamara, Stephen’s wife, greeted us. They were taking the same tour! Of course, Ron had to get a picture of their whole crew, including a new son-in-law and soon-to-be-son-in-law! Aren’t they the cutest family? We so appreciate the Robinsons.
The flag which flies over Fort Sumter has thirty-three stars and is a testament to President Abraham Lincoln who was committed to preserving the Union. Following the battle at Fort Sumter, which officially began the Civil War, President Lincoln needed to decide whether to leave all thirty-three stars on the flag or remove those of the states which had seceded. He chose to have no stars removed. I was deeply moved and inspired by the president’s steadfast devotion to national unity.
Devastating weapons used during the Civil War are displayed at Ft. Sumter.
Prayer:
O Lord, Prince of Peace,
Merciful God, please protect our nation from war.
In some way, bring peace to those nations which at this very moment are embroiled in the brutalities which wartime brings.
Show me ways in which I can be an instrument of your peace.
Amen
May your life be filled with peace!
