Are the webinars suitable for children?

Yes, most webinars are designed to be family-friendly and educational for all ages.

Can I watch a recording later?

Recordings are sometimes available; check the schedule or contact the Trust for details.

Many webinars are free, but some special sessions may require registration or a fee—check the event listing.

Do I need special software?

A web browser and internet connection are sufficient; some sessions may require specific platforms like Zoom.

Can I ask questions during the webinar?

Absolutely, live Q&A sessions are a key part of the experience.

Are the sessions suitable for non-English speakers?

Most webinars are conducted in English; check for available subtitles or translated sessions.

Indoor Learning Experience with Drayton Hall Preservation Trust

Located in Charleston, South Carolina, Drayton Hall offers a captivating way to connect with history through their engaging webinars. While not a traditional outdoor adventure, these one-hour sessions deliver an exhilarating journey into the past, blending educational content with interactive elements that captivate audiences of all ages. Hosted by the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust, these webinars provide a rare opportunity to explore the storied estate and its rich history from anywhere, making them a standout activity in the Charleston area.

The webinars are meticulously designed to be both fun and challenging, providing a memorable experience that stimulates curiosity about American history, architecture, and preservation. Participants learn about the historic significance of Drayton Hall, one of America's oldest and most iconic colonial-era plantations, known for its pioneering approach to preservation still dominant today. The sessions often include vivid storytelling, high-quality visuals, and opportunities for questions, making them a dynamic alternative to traditional tours.

While these experiences are indoors, they are a vital part of the local outdoor-inspired recreation scene, emphasizing education, cultural heritage, and community engagement. They stand out as a perfect activity for those looking to immerse themselves in American history without stepping outside, especially during inclement weather or for visitors from afar. The Drayton Hall webinars are an excellent complement to outdoor adventures in Charleston, offering a well-rounded cultural package.

Open to all, the webinars reflect the Trust’s commitment to sharing history with broader audiences, fostering preservation awareness, and keeping the spirit of the South’s historic estates alive. Whether you're a history buff, a student, or a curious traveler, these sessions promise a fun, educational experience that deepens your appreciation for Charleston’s storied past.

About Drayton Hall Preservation Trust

Drayton Hall Preservation Trust stewards Drayton Hall, a nationally significant historic property located on the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The Trust preserves America’s earliest unrestored Palladian house—often described as the nation's oldest preserved plantation house—and interprets its architectural, cultural, and archaeological stories for the public.

Programming includes daily and seasonal guided tours such as the one-hour Signature Experience Tour that visits the cellar, main, and second floors and features the Steven and Laura Gates Exhibit Gallery and the Lenhardt Courtyard Garden. Educator-led Student House Tours provide 45–60 minute curriculum-based experiences exploring African American history, architectural preservation, and onsite archaeology. Evening offerings range from Candlelight Tours that illuminate 18th-century spaces to special events like Drayton Hall at Night with live lawn music and archaeological presentations. Seasonal and community events include the popular Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast, holiday concerts such as African American Spirituals with Ann Caldwell and The Magnolia Singers, and hands-on workshops like the Wreath Building Workshop led by local florist Lela Solomon. The Trust also collaborates with nearby institutions to offer combination itineraries—for example, joint tours and package days with Middleton Place and Charleston Strolls walking tours—giving visitors economical ways to experience Lowcountry gardens, houses, and historic streets. Interpreters and guides emphasize preservation, authenticity, and historical context. Many ticketed experiences have limited capacity, so visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure a place.

Public programming supports conservation of the house, landscape, and archaeological collections through admission and membership, and community engagement efforts nationwide.