Aiken-Rhett House of Charleston
The Aiken-Rhett House is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston, South Carolina. Built around 1817 originally for a merchant named John Robinson. It was a typical "Charleston double house" at the time he owned it and is said that he was forced to sell the house to meet financial obligations in 1825.
This impressive residence was bought by William Aiken Sr. in 1827 and then passed to his son and new bride in 1833. It was enlarged and then redecorated by the Governor and his wife, Mrs. William Aiken Jr. around the 1830's and then again in the 1850's. The changes the William Jr. and his wife Harriet made to the house was said to make the house "one of the most impressive residences in Charleston." Many of the beautiful treasures found in their home were brought back from their traveling trips to Europe. Such things included paintings, classical sculptures and even bronze chandeliers. Most of these treasures are still in the rooms that they were purchased for.
Although WIlliam Aiken Jr. was Governor and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, we cannot forget that he was also one of the states largest slaveholders. There were said to be about 12 slaves that maintained his palatial house and probably more than 700 at his rice plantation located on the South Edisto River.
Conservation has been of utmost importance for the Aiken-Rhett House and because of this, it's been virtually unaltered since about 1858 and attracts all walks of life. Tickets are very reasonable and they even feature an "audio tour," the only one in Charleston.
When traveling to Charleston South Carolina, there are always many things to see and do, but all paths seem to lead it's visitors on an impressive and unforgettable adventure back in time. It's a journey you won't soon forget.
