Here is an appealing old house with a fascinating history.
Chesnut Cottage is located in the historic district of downtown Columbia, South Carolina.
It was once the home of Mary Boykin Chesnut and her husband, General James Chesnut.
Who?
James Chesnut Jr. was a Democratic senator in 1858–60. But when Abraham Lincoln was elected president in 1860, Chesnut resigned from the U.S. Senate and took part in the South Carolina secession convention, later helping to draft the Confederate States Constitution. He also served as a general in the Confederate States Army in the Civil War.
He and his wife were friends with Jefferson Davies – the president of the Confederate States from 1861 to 1865.
In fact, as the historical plaque in front of the house explains, Jefferson Davies actually stayed here and “addressed the citizens of Columbia from the front steps of this cottage”.
Such a significant Civil War-era dwelling is of course listed in the National Historic Registry.
Chesnut Cottage is kind of a misnomer because it is a lot larger than its name suggests. It actually has 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms in 4,300 square feet.
It is currently listed for sale for $950,000.
For nearly 4 decades, Chesnut Cottage has functioned as an inn for travelers visiting South Carolina’s capital.
It is set up well for an inn or B&B with 5 guest suites and a private owner’s suite.
This c. 1850 home has many original features as well as some beautiful period-appropriate historic furnishings.
The kitchen is not large, but it appears well-equipped for a small inn.
Have a look at the beautifully appointed bedrooms…
Pictured below is one of the 7 baths:
Civil War images are found throughout the home.
Perhaps the most fascinating part of this home is the cellar which is finished like a cozy British pub.
Outside, Chestnut Cottage has a courtyard patio where guests can relax and soak in the history.
Chesnut Cottage is lovely inside and out, and worth a visit even if it was on the losing side of history.
Source:
https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/1718-Hampton-St-Columbia-SC-29201/300045092_zpid/
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