Huger, SC: Historic 1699 Simons Family Residence

This vintage photograph captures a significant structure located in Huger, Berkeley County, South Carolina. Built in 1699 by Benjamin Simons, a Huguenot, this residence is recognized as perhaps the oldest wooden house in South Carolina. Remarkably, it has remained within the Simons family for generations, showcasing the enduring legacy of early colonial architecture.

The building features distinctive elements, including andirons, doorways, and fireplaces that reflect the craftsmanship of the era. The downstairs was redecorated in the 1800s, preserving its historical significance while adapting to the needs of its occupants. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, highlighting the rich architectural heritage of the region.

This photograph was published in Samuel Gaillard Stoneys Plantations of the Carolina Low Country in 1938 and is available through the Library of Congress. The image serves as a valuable educational resource for those interested in South Carolinas architectural history and the story of its early settlers.