The Charleston Old Guard
Where the bloodlines run long, the horses run fast, and the family politics haven’t changed since the last century—because no one dares suggest they should.
They remain steadfast in tradition, selective in memory, and united by an unshakable belief that a firm handshake and a good horse can still solve most problems.
Mr. John Walker
of Whyndum, Charleston, South Carolina
Known For:
Unshakable loyalty, effortless horsemanship, and the kind of aim that could earn medals—if he didn't politely miss by a hair to spare someone else's pride.
Status:
Unmarried. Devoted (with increasingly poor disguise) to Miss Elizabeth Taylor, who remains, as ever, magnificently unmoved.
“I’d never presume to ask for her heart. But I do seem to keep making room for it.”
Editor’s Note:
The sort of man who’d ride through a storm without complaint, stay behind to mend the fence, and tip his hat to the very people who forgot to thank him. Unclear if he holds a devastatingly low opinion of himself, or was simply raised with too much grace to insist on what he’s owed.
Assessment:
A gentleman more likely to have his heart broken than to break another’s.
His manners are often mistaken for meekness—but we are nearly certain there’s a spine in there somewhere, and he’ll use it when it matters most.
Would build you a home with his own hands and apologize if the nails weren’t straight—even if he’s the only one who noticed.
Mr. Thomas Walker
of Whyndum, Charleston, South Carolina
Known For:
Impeccable aim, irresistible arrogance, and delivering devastating truths with the tone of a compliment. Known to kiss and insult in the same breath — sometimes to the same woman.
Status:
Unmarried. Unrepentant. Frequently admired, occasionally tolerated, and never fully trusted. Equal parts entitled and calculating.
Famously danced with three sisters in one evening and left all of them annoyed—for different reasons.
Open to love. Even more open to leverage.
“It was most unladylike for her to slap me. Most women have the good breeding to accept a compliment — such as, ‘You’re actually surprisingly pretty once you stop trying so hard.’”
Editor’s Note:
The sort of man who could shoot the apple off your head at twenty paces—then ruin the moment by offering unsolicited advice about your posture.
Assessment:
Too clever by half, too careless by choice, and too handsome to ignore. Wields wit like a weapon and wears trouble like a tailored coat.
Would make an excellent villain… or the sort of lover one regrets publicly and misses in private.