Doesn’t this plaque make you wonder about the man behind the Col. William Rhett House? This historic marker tells a tale of a life intertwined with Charleston’s very beginnings. The Col. William Rhett House stands as a testament to Charleston’s rich history. It is located at 54 Hasell Street.
Built around 1712, the Col. William Rhett House is believed to be one of Charleston’s oldest houses. Col. William Rhett, a prominent figure in early Charleston, commissioned its construction. He was more than just a resident. Rhett was a merchant, sea captain, and militia officer. He even served as speaker of the Commons House of Assembly.
Rhett’s most famous feat was capturing the notorious pirate Steed Bonnet. Imagine the bravery required to face such a dangerous foe. This act alone cemented Rhett’s place in Charleston’s history. The Col. William Rhett House was initially the main house for Point Plantation. It was later known as Rhettsbury. The plantation lay outside the walled city limits. It was later folded into the historic Ansonborough neighborhood.
After Rhett’s death in 1722, the house remained in his family until 1807. Then, Christopher Fitzsimons, a wealthy merchant and planter, purchased it. Fitzsimons renovated and enlarged the house. He also added its piazzas, enhancing its architectural appeal. Fitzsimons’ grandson, Gov. Wade Hampton, was born in the Col. William Rhett House. He was born in 1818. Hampton later became a Confederate Lieutenant General. He also served as Governor of South Carolina and a United States Senator.
In the 1940s, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Kittredge bought the house. They were the creators of Cypress Gardens near Moncks Corner. The Kittredges added the eastern set of stairs to the front of the house. They mirrored the original set on the opposite side. This addition created a balanced and symmetrical facade.
The Preservation Society of Charleston erected this historical marker in 2001. It designates the Col. William Rhett House as a significant landmark. The plaque commemorates Col. William Rhett’s contributions to Charleston. It also celebrates the house’s enduring legacy.
The Col. William Rhett House is a two-story home. It is stuccoed brick. Its history spans centuries. It has witnessed Charleston’s evolution from a colonial settlement to a vibrant city. The house stands as a reminder of the individuals who shaped its destiny.
So, as you stand before the Col. William Rhett House, take a moment. Reflect on the lives of those who once called it home. Think about William Rhett and Christopher Fitzsimons. Envision Wade Hampton’s early years within these walls. This house is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a living testament to Charleston’s past.