Preserving the Legacy: A Journey Through Boone Hall's Past, Present, and Future with Jim Westerhold

Building Business w/ the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce

Apr 2 2024 • 44 mins

Imagine stepping onto the grounds of Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, enveloped by the whispers of history and the echoes of stories untold. Today's conversation with Jim Westerhold, the General Manager of this historic Charleston landmark, along with co-hosts Kathi Herrmann and Scott Labarowski, is a journey that began with a serendipitous summer job and led to a lifelong dedication to the preservation of a site steeped in American history. Like a scene from "The Notebook," Boone Hall captures hearts, and Jim invites us into a world where the past is not just remembered—it's actively preserved and honored.

Our exploration with Jim doesn't just stay rooted in the past; it branches out to the vibrant present of Boone Hall, a place where the community gathers in celebration and education. As we traverse the lush gardens and catch the harmonious strains of Gullah performances, it's clear that Boone Hall is more than a place—it's a living legacy, intertwining the joys of today with the rich tapestry of its history. Boone Hall hosts everything from the oyster festival to Fright Nights.

Looking toward the horizon, Boone Hall's future is as fertile as its fields, with plans of nurturing both land and community. In this episode, we touch on the plantation's dedication to local agriculture and the ways in which fostering historical knowledge can root us more deeply in our own lives. So, join us on this walk through time, across the grounds of Boone Hall, as we uncover the threads that connect us all through history, culture, and the timeless pursuit of knowledge. Jim's story is a testament to the power of passion and the importance of every individual's role in shaping and sharing our collective heritage.