Planters Hotel, Charleston SC, Historic Photo 1953

This vintage photograph showcases the Planters Hotel, an iconic structure located in Charleston, South Carolina. Originally built around the ruins of the first planned theater in America, which dates back to 1736, the hotel reflects the citys rich architectural history. The transformation from a theater to a hotel occurred shortly after 1800, illustrating the evolving landscape of Charlestons built environment.

The Planters Hotel is significant not only for its historical context but also for its architectural features, characterized by intricate brickwork and design elements representative of the period. This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aims to document and preserve the architectural heritage of the region.

Photographed by Frances Benjamin Johnston, a prominent figure in early 20th-century photography, this image serves as a valuable cultural artifact. It was acquired from Johnstons estate in 1953 and remains a testament to Charlestons enduring architectural legacy.

KNOWOLs historic images connect the rich stories and imagery of our past. A statement in any room, each is printed on museum-quality paper using a restored version of the original.