Before you stands the Rebecca Screven House a Charleston treasure. This elegant single house at 35 Legare Street whispers tales of a rich past. Built sometime before 1828 it was constructed by Rebecca Screven on land inherited from her mother Mrs Elizabeth Williams.
Imagine Rebecca walking these very grounds. She oversaw the construction of this home a testament to her independence and strength. The house stands as a symbol of her legacy. It is a remarkable story of a woman building a life in a time when female agency was often unheard of.
In 1879 Louisa J McCord a prominent antebellum South Carolina writer purchased the Rebecca Screven House. Her presence further cemented the house’s place in history. McCord’s literary achievements brought additional prestige to this Charleston residence. Think of the words she wrote the stories she crafted within these walls.
The Historic Charleston Foundation acquired the Rebecca Screven House in 2014. They invested $1.75 million to preserve this piece of history. The foundation’s commitment ensured the house’s future. It would remain a landmark not just for Charleston but for the entire state. Both the interior and exterior along with a beautiful garden designed by Loutrel Briggs are protected by easements.
The Rebecca Screven House stands as a symbol of Charleston’s resilient spirit. It represents the stories of strong women who shaped its history. This is more than just a house it is a living testament to the past. It is a place where history breathes. Appreciate the architecture the craftsmanship and the weight of the past within these walls. Leave today knowing a little more about Charleston’s rich history and the unforgettable Rebecca Screven House.