The Citadel

From United States Senators and Congressmen to doctors, engineers and ambassadors, The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina has contributed a great number of distinguished leaders to society. Founded in 1842, this military college is located on the bank of the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina on 300 acres of land. The school is a South Carolina landmark that is comprised of 24 major buildings surrounding ten acres of green parade lawn.

A Place in History

The Citadel was originally situated in downtown Charleston on Marion Square and was moved in 1922 to its current location. This military college has a long and rich history dating back to the American Civil War, when its cadets were called upon by the Governor to join forces with South Carolina troops to defend Charleston. Named the Battalion of State Cadets, their academic classes were often interrupted so they could perform duties such as guarding prisoners and manning artillery. The Citadel closed down temporarily in 1865 when Union troops occupied the school. It reopened in 1882.

Citadel cadets have been engaged in every U.S. war since the inception of the college, including World Wars I and II, Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, and the ongoing conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Corps of Cadets

Approximately 1,900 undergraduate students comprise the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, the program which the school is renowned for. The men and women live and study at the college while receiving traditional military instruction in a disciplined environment. Uniforms are mandatory and rigorous physical fitness training is an integral part of the curriculum.

Cadets can earn bachelor degrees in a variety of fields including business, education, engineering, humanities, and science and mathematics. While many Citadel cadets pursue military careers after graduating, they are not required to.

About 1,000 civilian students are enrolled in the Citadel Graduate College, which offers programs in the evenings. The Citadel boasts a stellar academic reputation and has received numerous accolades, including being named as one of the top ten colleges and universities in the South for quality and value in the 2009 U.S. News & World Report rankings. It was also named by Newsweek Magazine in 2006 as one of “America's 25 Hot Schools.”

The Best Free Show in Charleston

Tourists that are planning to visit The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina during the school year can witness quite an entertaining spectacle- the Friday afternoon parade. The cadets march out from the barracks in even formation across the sprawling green lawn accompanied by bagpipes and the drums and brass of the marching band. Be prepared to jump at the booming blast when the cannon salute is fired! The parades are open to the public and the schedule can be found at: The Citadel Website

Points of Interest

Built in the 1930s, Summerall Chapel is notable for its Gothic-inspired red tile roof which forms the shape of a cross when viewed from the air. Handmade wrought iron lights adorn the interior and flags from the 50 states drape the walls. Pine ceilings and stunning stained glass windows make this nondenominational chapel a lovely and serene stop during a tour of the campus grounds. It is also a very popular venue for weddings.

Another tranquil and remarkable Citadel building is the massive Daniel Library, which was built in 1960. The facilities hold more than 1.1 million books and documents and a collection of 12,000 reference volumes.

The Citadel Archives and Museum feature exhibits that tell the story of the college from 1842 to the present and include collections of military-related letters, diaries and photographs.

Athletics are an integral part of Citadel campus life and Citadel Bulldog football, basketball and baseball games are popular attractions. Visit Citadel Sports for a schedule of events.

Visiting the Citadel

The Citadel is located at 171 Moultrie Street in Charleston, South Carolina. Campus tours are led by cadets and are available during the school year.

Call 843-225-3294 for more information.

Click here to visit The Citadel official website