“Pineapple Gates” a nickname whispered on Charleston breezes. Before you stands the Simmons-Edwards House. A grand neoclassical single house built around 1800 for Francis Simmons a wealthy Johns Island planter. He lived here during his Charleston stays. His wife Ruth however resided separately on Tradd Street. A peculiar arrangement agreed upon from their wedding day.
The house’s fame rests not only on its Federal architecture but on its magnificent brick gates. These gates bear the initials of George Edwards. He acquired the house in 1816. He added these stunning gates with their unique finials. These were initially intended to be live oak acorns. They arrived however as Italian pinecones. Locals however nicknamed them pineapples a name that stuck.
The Simmons-Edwards House is more than just beautiful architecture. It’s a portal to Charleston’s past. It’s seen the comings and goings of prominent figures. James Adger Smyth a Charleston mayor resided here. In the mid-20th century the house changed hands several times. Each sale marked a new chapter. The prices climbed from $50000 to over $3 million. These transactions reflected the house’s growing value and the allure of Charleston’s history.
The gardens too hold a story. Originally sprawling they included vegetable beds and farm animals. Covered by a lawn for much of the 20th century an archaeological restoration uncovered their original beauty. The house’s large property unusually big for downtown Charleston occupies both 12 and 14 Legare Street. This expanse reflects the wealth of its past owners. The extensive gardens reveal a glimpse into a bygone era.
Today the Simmons-Edwards House stands as a National Historic Landmark. A testament to Charleston’s enduring charm. It’s a place where history whispers. Where stories of planters mayors and high-stakes real estate deals intertwine. It is a treasure of Charleston’s architectural and social history. A captivating piece of the city’s rich past.