The Heyward-Washington House, located at 87 Church Street in Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic house museum. Constructed in 1772, the house stands as a testament to the rich history of the area. It was once the home of Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence, and served as the residence of George Washington during his 1791 visit to the city. Today, it is owned and operated by the Charleston Museum.
The Heyward-Washington House is not just a historic building, but also a showcase of Charleston's craftsmanship. The house is furnished with a collection of Charleston-made furniture, reflecting the style and taste of the late 18th century. In addition to the main house, the property also includes other structures such as the carriage shed and a kitchen building from the 1740s.
One of the highlights of the Heyward-Washington House museum is its collection of historic Charleston-made furniture. This includes the priceless Holmes Bookcase, which is considered one of the finest examples of American-made colonial furniture. This piece, along with others in the collection, offers visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship and design sensibilities of the period.
History & Anthropology Art & Design Historic house Person & Artist Profession & Craft
#4 Art & Design in Charleston #7 History & Anthropology in Charleston #7 Historic houses in Charleston #2 Person & artist museums in Charleston #4 Art & Design in South Carolina #10 History & Anthropology in South Carolina #8 Historic houses in South Carolina #2 Person & artist museums in South Carolina #1 Profession & craft museums in South Carolina #197 Art & Design in United States #168 Person & artist museums in United States #19 Profession & craft museums in United States
87 Church St, Charleston
No exhibitions in Heyward-washington House Museum have been found.
Heyward-washington House Museum has 1 rating.
The Heyward-Washington House Museum in Charleston offers visitors a well-preserved glimpse into 18th-century life in South Carolina. This historic home, once owned by Thomas Heyward Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence, showcases period furnishings and architecture. Many visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides who provide informative tours, explaining the history of the house and its inhabitants. The museum's collection of Charleston-made furniture is particularly noteworthy, with many pieces being original to the home.
The small formal gardens at the rear of the property are often mentioned as a pleasant surprise, providing a serene space that reflects the landscaping styles of the era. Some visitors note that the kitchen house and slave quarters offer important context about the lives of enslaved people during this period, though a few suggest this aspect could be explored in more depth.
While many find the admission price reasonable for the experience offered, a few visitors mention that the tour can feel rushed at times, particularly during busy periods. The house's size means that larger groups may feel crowded in some of the smaller rooms.
Accessibility might be an issue for some visitors, as the historic nature of the building means there are stairs to navigate and no elevator. However, the staff is generally described as accommodating and helpful.
Overall, the Heyward-Washington House Museum provides an educational and engaging experience for those interested in American history, offering a tangible connection to Charleston's colonial and revolutionary past.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near Heyward-washington House Museum in or around Charleston.