John Mark Verdier House, Beaufort

The John Mark Verdier House is often regarded as one of Beaufort's most iconic and well-preserved historic homes. John Mark Verdier, a French Huguenot, played a pivotal role in Beaufort's history. Arriving in Beaufort, he embarked on a successful journey as a merchant and later as a plantation owner, accumulating wealth through the highly profitable Indigo trade of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Verdier acquired over 1,000 acres of Sea Island cotton fields and plantations, prompting the construction of a grand Federal-style mansion in Beaufort's historic downtown district. The mansion became an iconic local landmark and even served as a preferred residence for Union Soldiers during the Civil War.

This stately home, adorned with two levels of white pillared columns and front porches, symbolized his ascent to the upper echelons of Beaufort's society. It is furnished with a collection of period-appropriate antiques, providing a glimpse into the furnishings and decor of the time when the house was originally occupied.

Today, the John Mark Verdier House serves as a museum and cultural center. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historic residence and learn about the history of Beaufort and its inhabitants. Guided tours of the house are available, providing visitors with insights into the architectural details, the lifestyle of the era, and the historical context of Beaufort during the 19th century. The tour offers insights into various intriguing aspects, including the home's distinction as the first Beaufort residence to have a telephone and its original design that positioned kitchens, bathrooms, and closets outside the main house.

The house museum also boasts three compelling exhibits focusing on Robert Smalls, the first African American to serve in the U.S. Congress in 1875, a collection of Civil War-era photos by local Samuel Cooley, and an exhibit honoring the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, who valiantly served in both the American Revolution and the Civil War.