Edmondston-Alston House, Charleston (must see)

In 1825, Charles Edmondston, a wealthy merchant and wharf owner, constructed this impressive three-story residence (originally of English Regency style) where he could enjoy unobstructed views of Charleston Harbor. The front staircase led to two drawing rooms on the second floor, with smaller rooms behind them serving as withdrawing spaces—one for ladies and one for gentlemen. The house featured 14-foot-high ceilings, large window and door openings for better airflow during the summer, and a library room. Additionally, the property featured a kitchen, servants' quarters, horse stables, and carriage facilities.

However, economic hardships stemming from the Panic of 1837 led Edmondston to sell the house to Charles Alston, a member of a prominent Low Country rice-planting family. Alston promptly renovated the architecture in the fashionable Greek Revival style. Additions included a third-story piazza with Corinthian columns, a cast-iron balcony across the front, and a rooftop railing displaying the Alston coat of arms. The Alstons received their visitors on the first floor, while social gatherings were held on the second floor.

Remarkably, many family documents, portraits, silver items, and fine furnishings from the 1830s, including Charles Alston's nearly intact library, can still be found today. Known for its unique Regency woodwork and uncompromising views of the harbor, the house's intimate atmosphere and authentic details may make visitors feel as though the Alstons only recently departed, perhaps for a countryside visit.