The Sights Of Charleston
Williams Mansion Palmetto Carriage Works®
The Williams Mansion, formerly known as the Calhoun Mansion, is the largest private residence in all of Charleston and may be seen on your carriage tour of this beautiful, historic city.
Built in 1876 by George W. Williams, the mansion was his contribution to the reemergence of Charleston after the civil war. It took nearly five years to build, employing hundreds of local artisans and craftsman. The Calhoun Mansion is more than 24,000 sq ft containing 35 grand rooms including the grand ballroom and the music room which boasts a 45 ft covered glass skylight. The home also holds 23 period fireplaces, numerous ornate chandeliers and beautiful plaster and wood molding.
The 14 by 65 ft grand entrance is a sight to behold along with the 75 ft high domed stair hall ceiling. There are no less than three levels of Piazzas in this Italianate manor home and you won’t want to miss the delightful Koi ponds you’ll find on the grounds. There are so many surprises awaiting you in this historic mansion, you have to see for yourself.
The Calhoun Mansion is known as the “Grande Dame” of Charleston’s great homes and was once dubbed “the greatest post civil war home on the eastern seaboard.” After the death of Williams in 1903 the house began to deteriorate and was eventually condemned in 1972. The mansion was eventually rescued by a Charleston native who spent 25 years and nearly five million dollars restoring it to its original grandeur.
Today the Williams Mansion is still the largest single family residence in Charleston. It is a revered historic structure that is open to the public for tours now that it has been restored to its previous condition. The Williams Mansion has been featured in Architectural Digest, America’s Castles, Forbes, HGTV, and The Wall Street Journal. This magnificent home is a must see on your trip to charming Charleston.