Scenes from Charleston, South Carolina (photo by Kenn Stearns)

It was Charles Towne in 1670 and by the late 1600s had grown to become one of America’s largest cities. It was renamed Charleston in 1783 and remained one of the largest cities until the mid-1800s. Nicknames include Carolopolis, Charlie-O, Chucktown, and The Holy City. By any name, Charleston’s historic buildings, art and historical museums, tourist attractions, and culinary diversions are well worth enjoying. My personal favorite is Rainbow Row, a series of colorful historic homes known for their pleasing and highly photogenic pastel colors. My encounter with the popular tourist attraction happened at dawn when traffic was light and when the air was clear so the sunrise could cast enchanting shadows that were commanded to dance across architectural treasures. Chasing daylight down Rainbow Row is moving, exciting, and somewhat spiritual.

Sunrise cast shows and daylight dances across historic Charleston (photo by Kenn Stearns)