Spirits of the Dead
Many of you South Carolina friends reading this will know the author Edgar Allen Poe. What you probably do not know is that he lived in South Carolina along the Sullivan’s Island shores when serving in the military.
My friend, Caroline, and I went exploring Friday morning and wound up driving along the coast for awhile, enjoying the view during the delightfully clear and cooler day. We drove by Fort Moultrie and the light house as we headed back into the quaint but lively little beach-front town.
I remembered there were bunkers on the island but I had forgotten they were occupied…that is, until we saw the words “Edgar Allen Poe Library†painted on the outside of one of them.
I was reminded of one of Poe’s writings – Spirits of the Dead – as we got out of our car and walked through those doors into the Battery Gadsden. We quickly learned from a knowledgeable staff member, Jeri, that this part of the battery was used to store and prepare ammunition as men defended the Charleston Harbor from the late 1800’s and on until it was given to the State of South Carolina after WW II.
“The soul shall find itself alone ‘mid thoughts…†of the past thinking of Poe walking through these halls and musing of the events and mysteries held in the bunkers. I found myself lost in wonder of the men who worked and died here defending their country. Indeed, there “…are thoughts that shalt not banish…now visions ne’re to vinish.†From Poe’s own pen he said “from the spirit shall they pass…†as I found myself thinking that any visitor willing to take the time to hear about the battery could easily find that spirit revived within this place.
It was easy to dream of events that may have happened within the walls and above on the small station on top used for observation and range finding. One can easily see where …â€the breeze – the breath of God – is still – and the mist upon the hill – shadowy -shadowy – yet unbroken…†could be. In many ways, the spirits of the dead can come alive through anyone taking the time to visit.
…Now are visions ne’er to vanish…†due to the insightfulness of Charleston County Library officials and Sullivan’s Island residents who persisted in rebuilding after Hurricane Hugo in 1989. The library is not only for residents, but it is full of a never ending history that welcomes the most unassuming guest.
My wish for you today is that you visit Sullivan’s Island and explore it’s wonders. Take some time to walk through those library doors. Experience the spirit within those walls as you discover the “mystery of mysteries†of Poe and the others that worked and walked here. 

~ Joellen