John Jakes's Best Bets in Charleston

Renowned historical novelist John Jakes achieved the rare distinction of having 16 consecutive novels on the New York Times list of best sellers. Considered the contemporary master of the family saga, Jakes is best loved locally for his trilogy North and South, which was made into three miniseries for ABC in the 1980s and '90s. They focused on Charleston before and during the Civil War, with much of the filming done in the city. Less famous but equally entertaining and educational are his books and audiotapes, Charleston and Savannah, or a Gift for Mr. Lincoln. Jakes shared some suggestions for experiencing Charleston's historical sites with us:

"Fort Sumter. A boat ride to the famous Civil War fort is an attraction that shouldn't be missed by any visitor who appreciates history. Close your eyes just a bit and you can imagine Sumter's cannon blasting from the ramparts—maybe even spot a sleek, gray blockade-runner from Liverpool sneaking into the harbor at dusk.

Carriage Rides. We lived in the Lowcountry for years before I took one of the carriage rides that originate next to the outdoor market. I had a misguided scorn for such tours until I jumped impulsively into a vacant carriage one day. I found the young guide enormously informative, and learned a lot, even some years after writing the North and South trilogy.

Boone Hall Plantation. This finely preserved property just a few miles north of the city stood in for Mont Royal, Patrick Swayze's home in the David L. Wolper miniseries North and South. The avenue of live oaks leading to the house is well worth the visit." —John Jakes