Thomas Elfe House Tours

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The Dock Street Theatre is Charleston's last surviving hotel from the antebellum period. The silhouette of its wrought iron balcony against the spire of St. Philip's church may be the single most photographed spot in the city. The main portion of the building was constructed around 1809 as Planter's Hotel. The hotel was built by Alexander Calder and his wife, who did so by renovating several pre-existing buildings at the site. The main entrance may not have been built until 1855 by J.W. Gamble. The hotel was used extensively by planters from the midlands of South Carolina, who traveled to Charleston during horse-racing season. It was noted for its wonderful food and drinks during this era, and the South's famous Planter's Punch may have originated here. Guests to the hotel passed through the recessed porch with brownstone columns, into the lobby, and up a grand staircase that ascended to a drawing room. While much of the interior has been altered, these elements of the antebellum hotel remain and were adapted in subsequent uses of the building. A series of additions to the hotel throughout the 19th and 20th centuries can be easily identified by differences in brick coloration. This theater is said to have been the first building built specifically for theatrical performances in America. Planter's Hotel occasionally housed one of the city's theatrical troupes, which performed at the nearby New Theatre during the mid-19th century. The most notable actor of this troupe was Junius Brutus Booth. Booth was the patriarch of an outstanding family of actors, which included John Wilkes Booth, President Lincoln's assassin. Junius Booth, who stayed at the Planter's Hotel, allegedly tried to kill his manager here in 1838. Today the Dock Street Theatre is home to the Charleston Stage Company, South Carolina's largest professional theater production company, and houses the city's Cultural Affairs office as well as The City Gallery, an exhibition space for local artists.

Dock Street Theater

Enjoy a show at Dock Street Theater, a storied theater in Charleston. Discover the area's shops, or seek out its local tours.

Dock Street Theater
St. Philip\'s Church showing heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

St. Philip's Church

Attend a service with the oldest religious congregation in South Carolina, dating back to the 17th century. George Washington worshipped with this congregation.

St. Philip's Church
One of the many gates throughout Charleston, South Carolina. This one is called the Lyre.

Circular Congregational Church

After visiting Circular Congregational Church, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Charleston. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Circular Congregational Church
The Old Powder Magazine is the only public building remaining from the era of the Lords Proprietors, the eight English aristocrats who owned Carolina from 1670 to 1719. Charles Town, as the capital and southernmost English settlement on the continent, was strategically important. The town was repeatedly attacked by pirates, marauding Spanish naval vessels, and Indians. Along with the high walls and a moat that surrounded Charles Town, the Powder Magazine, as the principal storehouse of munitions and gunpowder, was crucial for the defense of the city.

The Powder Magazine

You can study the exhibits at The Powder Magazine, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Charleston. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

The Powder Magazine
Gibbes Museum of Art showing heritage elements and interior views

Gibbes Museum of Art

Browse the collection of this visual arts museum, set in Charleston’s Historic District. Its detailed Beaux Arts style makes it as impressive outside as inside.

Gibbes Museum of Art
Pink House Gallery featuring a house

Pink House Gallery

You can browse the exhibits at Pink House Gallery, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Charleston. Add the area's churches or shops to your travel plans.

Pink House Gallery

Best Lodging Options Near Thomas Elfe House

Emeline

Emeline

4 out of 5
181 Church St Charleston SC
Emeline
The Francis Marion Hotel

The Francis Marion Hotel

4 out of 5
387 King St Charleston SC
The Francis Marion Hotel
Planters Inn

Planters Inn

4.5 out of 5
112 N Market St Charleston SC
Planters Inn
The Ryder Hotel

The Ryder Hotel

3.5 out of 5
237 Meeting Street Charleston SC
The Ryder Hotel
The Ansonborough

The Ansonborough

4 out of 5
21 Hasell Street Charleston SC
The Ansonborough
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