How a South Carolina Slave Became the Most Celebrated Chef in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, consistently tops the lists of ‘world’s best cities to visit.’ It’s also a city that was built on the sweat and blood of slaves, and learning about this history should be part of your travels to this region. 

 

Before slavery was abolished in 1865, Charleston was the slavery capital of the United States. Four million slaves lived in America – 10% of them in South Carolina — and about 40% of the slaves brought to the U.S. came through Charleston Harbor. 

 

This episode is dedicated to the incredible story of Nat Fuller, a Charleston slave who somehow managed to start his own catering and restaurant business, and then went on to become the most celebrated chef in the city. But that’s not all. When Charleston was in confused ruins after the Civil War, Nat hosted a Reconciliation Feast, which brought together black and white diners for the city’s first integrated meal in its history. 

 

I talk to with David Shields, a University of South Carolina professor and author of The Culinarians: Lives and Careers from the First Age of American Fine Dining. I also interview chef Kevin Mitchell, who helped organize and participated in the 150th anniversary celebration of Nat Fuller’s Reconciliation Feast.

 

 

I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel. Ready to travel? Sign up for my newsletter and get your free guide to cheap airfare. 

 

Thank you so much for listening to this show. I know you’re busy and have many listening options, so it means a lot to me that you’re here. You are the best.

 

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