Description Originally a rice plantation, Magnolia became known for its gardens after the Reverend John Grimke Drayton inherited the property in the 1840s and began to rework its gardens in an English style. According to legend, he built the gardens to lure his bride south from her native Philadelphia. He was among the first to utilize Camellia japonica in an outdoor setting (1820s), and is said to have introduced the first azaleas to America. Dripping with pink and red azalea flowers and framed by live oak trees, the gardens of Magnolia on the Ashley were quite well known in the Antebellum period, and were photographed by Mathew Brady, who would later become famous for his photographs of the American Civil War. Another visitor to Magnolia in this period was John James Audubon for whom Magnolia's Audubon Swamp Garden is named.
Dustin K Ryan, Charleston SC Member Since April 2010 Artist Statement Born in Portland Oregon in 1977 Dustin grew up in the lush Columbia River Gorge where film and photography became a passion and way to express his artistic talents. An avid sailor, surfer, and nature lover, Dustin moved to Hawaii in 1998 and resided on the islands of Kauai and Maui for 8 years. Now living in Charleston South Carolina, Dustin enjoys the Lowcountry lifestyle and the amazing variety of activities and photo opportunities in the area. Dustin uses all Canon digital bodies and lenses for the best image quality. All images are copyright and available for purchase at Imagekind or localy by contacting Dustin directly. Available for hire, starting $500 per assignment.