On a beautiful Spring Wednesday, we sipped wine and enjoyed a sneak peak at the unopened Old Towne Creek Park in West Ashley.  Located along the banks of Old Towne Creek, just across from Charles Towne Landing, lies this new Charleston County Park.

Owned by the Ravenel family for years, Ashem Farm, produced vegetables and soybeans on its 55 acres.   The property’s long time owner, Emily Ravenel Farrow, was born here in 1915 and established the St. Andrew’s Parish Riding Academy on the farm.  When Miss Em married John Ashby Farrow the farm was dubbed “Ashem,” a derivative of both their names.   The couple used the place as a country retreat from their grand manse, the William Gibbes House on historic South Battery.

While the West Ashley area developed around the property, Mrs. Farrow ensured the protection of the farm by forming a conservation easement to the Historic Charleston Foundation, protecting both the land and buildings.  The easement permanently limited the potential subdivision and development of the valuable acreage which she willed to the Lowcountry Open Land Trust.

Historic Charleston Foundation’s executive director, Kitty Robinson, said this of Miss Em:  “Mrs. Farrow loved Charleston. She loved the land. And she loved people. We can think of no greater tribute to her legacy than this: a public park that will allow future generations to experience the beauty and peace of the Lowcountry.”  A real lady, Miss Em passed away April 26, 2011 at the age of 96.  Check out the Lowcountry Land Trust’s interview with her here

Mr. H says:  The land, the air, and the planet is our legacy to our young-Enjoy!