Charleston's Seafood Empire: Built From a Rowboat

The story of Charles C. Leslie, architect of Charleston's seafood culture.

Charleston’s Mosquito Fleet was a group of hardy and fearless African-American men who, for nearly two centuries, braved the winds and waves and weather to supply city residents daily with fresh fish and seafood. They looked like a swarm of mosquitoes over the horizon.

Indescribable joy accompanies the arrival each spring of our beloved soft-shell blue crabs. These beautiful swimmers create enough ecstasy to cause even the angels to sing. Festivals are everywhere, and blue crabs become like little pied pipers, leading locals and visitors to the nearest restaurant.