Euphemism can be a interesting phenomenon. Consider the difference between a “pest house” and a “quarantine station”. The net effect was the same for many 18th century arrivals to Charleston including both European settlers and enslaved Africans.
Dr. Nic Butler, historian for the Charleston County Library, will present a review of the facts and misunderstandings on the Sullivan’s Island quarantine stations or “pest houses.” From 1707 to the mid-1790s, the quarantine station was the first point of landfall for a portion of the people coming to South Carolina, especially enslaved Africans. The talk will take place in the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center which is located at 1214 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482. Park entrance fees, $3 for adults and $1 for senior citizens, will apply for this program.
Here’s some additional information from the Ft. Moultrie/National Park Service website.