Charleston, South Carolina – Aiken-Rhett House

This picture shows the Aiken-Rhett House, located in Charleston, at 48 Elizabeth Street. It was taken by Conyers Bull of Mount Pleasant in 2006.

The house has an unusual history because it remained in the same family for over 140 years.

In 1817, it was built by Charleston merchant John Robinson, who later built Oak Grove Plantation in Orangeburg County.

In 1825, five of Robinson's ships and their cargoes were captured and burned by the French. Although not legally liable for the cargoes of cotton and indigo, he felt obligated to repay the planters who lost their crops. In order to raise the necessary capital, he was forced to sell his home.

In 1827, William Aiken, Sr. purchased the property.

In 1975, it was donated to the Charleston Museum.

In 1995, it was purchased by the Historic Charleston Foundation.

Learn more about the Aiken-Rhett House.