Planters Hotel, Charleston SC, 20th Century History Photo

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph of the Planters Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina. The hotel was built around the ruins of the first planned theater in America, which dates back to 1736. After the theater fell into disrepair shortly after 1800, the Planters Hotel emerged, integrating the remnants of its predecessor into its architecture.

Located in Charleston County, the hotel represents a significant piece of the regions history. The image showcases the intricate ironwork, palm trees, and the surrounding streets that characterize this historic area. Johnstons work contributes to the understanding of Southern architecture and the cultural landscape of early 20th-century America.

This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South and serves as a visual record of the architectural heritage of Charleston. It was acquired from the estate of Frances Benjamin Johnston in 1953, further enriching its historical significance.

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.