Planters Hotel History, Charleston SC, 1736 Photo

This vintage photograph captures the historic Planters Hotel, located in Charleston, South Carolina. Originally constructed in 1736, the building holds significance as the first planned theater in America. After falling into ruin shortly after 1800, the Planters Hotel was established around the remaining structure, reflecting the architectural evolution of the region.

The image showcases the intricate details of the hotels design, featuring elegant balconies, robust columns, and ornate ironwork. The fanlights above the doors enhance the buildings character, illustrating the craftsmanship of the time. This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a notable collection aimed at documenting the architectural heritage of the southern United States.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, a prominent photographer, captured this image as part of her extensive work documenting American architecture. Her legacy endures through photographs like this one, which offer a glimpse into Charlestons rich historical narrative.

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.