Planters Hotel History in Charleston, SC - 1736

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph of the Planters Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina. The buildings origins date back to 1736, making it a significant historical landmark. Initially, this site housed the first planned theater in America, which unfortunately fell into disrepair shortly after 1800. The Planters Hotel was constructed around the ruins, preserving a piece of Charlestons architectural history.

The image showcases notable architectural features, including elegant balconies, imposing columns, intricate ironwork, and grand doors. Each element reflects the rich craftsmanship of the period and contributes to the buildings historic significance. The Planters Hotel remains a testament to the vibrant cultural heritage of Charleston.

This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document and celebrate Southern architecture. It was acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953.

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.