Have You Seen My Town?

Yesterday, as I was posting on this blog for the weekly PhotoHunt (this time the theme was "space"), I realized that some of the prettiest spaces in the world are right here where I live - Summerville, SC.

Summerville, also known as Flowertown or Flowertown in the Pines, is a short distance from Charleston, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island and the coast generally.

It was the first town in the US to adopt a tree ordinance to protect trees. That was way back in 1847.

In 1899, the International Congress of Physicians listed Summerville as one of the two best areas in the entire world for treatment and recovery of lung and throat disorders.

The downtown historic district features lots of beautiful sculpture. There are places for local artists and craftsmen to display and sell their creations. Several restaurants offer sidewalk or outdoor dining.

Downtown features walking areas for shopping (closed to vehicular traffic); azaleas, dogwoods, crape myrtles, camellias, roses and more; fountains; park benches; a friendly atmosphere; historic homes and cottages; and, of course, trees -- lots of beautiful trees. There are several small playgrounds and nice parks.

During the first weekend in April, Summerville hosts a tremendous "Flowertown Festival" throughout Azalea Park and downtown. In May, there's a several-day event called "Sculpture in the South."

I couldn't post all of the pictures but tried to share a few to give an overview. Click on each to enlarge.

Ah, Summerville! Such beautiful spaces.