Aiken-Rhett House

The Aiken-Rhett House in Charleston, South Carolina is a stunning example of Antebellum architecture. Originally built in the early 19th century, this historic house has been preserved and restored to its original splendor, allowing visitors to experience a bygone era.

History of Aiken Rhett House:

The Aiken-Rhett House is unique in that it has not been restored to a single period in time, but rather showcases the evolution of the house over several decades. While the house retains its antebellum grandeur, visitors can also see evidence of later additions, including gas lighting and indoor plumbing. This approach to preservation allows visitors to understand the evolution of the house and to appreciate the unique history of the property.

The Aiken-Rhett House was constructed in 1820 and acquired by William Aiken, Jr. in 1827. Aiken was a thriving entrepreneur and successful politician who transformed the house into a lavish antebellum residence, with the help of his wife, Harriet Lowndes. The house was expanded and renovated several times over the years, resulting in a vast 22,000-square-foot mansion.

Architecture of Aiken-Rhett House:

Visitors to the house are welcomed by an impressive double staircase and beautifully wrought iron gates, once used to separate the white family’s area of the house from the enslaved individuals who lived and worked there. Inside, visitors can marvel at the beautiful architectural details, including ornate mantels, intricate plasterwork, and beautiful woodwork. The ground floor contains a series of grand rooms that were used for entertaining guests on special occasions. These rooms are furnished with beautiful antiques, artwork, and period pieces, providing a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Charleston elite.

As visitors tour the house, they can also see evidence of the enslaved individuals who worked and lived on the property. The original kitchens and slave quarters have been preserved and provide a stark reminder of the role that enslaved labor played in the antebellum South. The Aiken-Rhett House’s exhibition on slavery is an important reminder of the darkest period in American history and a necessary reflection on society’s ongoing struggle to address systemic inequality.

The Aiken-Rhett House in Charleston, South Carolina is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. Visiting this beautifully restored antebellum mansion gives visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Charleston elite and a sobering reminder of slavery's influence on the antebellum South. For those interested in American history and architecture, the Aiken-Rhett House is an unmissable attraction.