Ansonborough
One of Charleston’s earliest suburbs…
House & Garden Tours take place from 2 – 5 PM on Saturday afternoons and feature a unique set of 6-8 properties in a different neighborhood each weekend. Enjoy a self-guided tour, going from site to site at your leisure, where our volunteer docents are stationed to share knowledge about the history, architecture, and landscapes.
Ansonborough, one of Charleston’s earliest suburbs, was established in the 1740s by seafaring Captain George Anson. Though much of the neighborhood was destroyed in the great fire of 1838, it was rebuilt and restored during a major revitalization effort in the mid-20th century. Ansonborough later became a nationally recognized model of historic preservation following a major mid-20th-century restoration. Today, Ansonborough showcases diverse history, architectural legacy, and a remarkable story of renewal.
Tour Information:
- Check-In: Check-in takes place on-site at the beginning of the tour. There are no physical tickets, and printed confirmations are not required. All guests will be checked in will-call style at the beginning of the tour using the first and last name on your order. Addresses are not published in advance of the tour. Ticket holders will receive tour routes and check-in instructions via email 3-5 days prior to the tour. Once checked in, you will receive a wristband, map, and program, and may then tour the properties in any order you wish.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are not available in the private houses and the nearest public restrooms may be a considerable walking distance away, please plan accordingly.
- Photography: Photography is not permitted on private property, inside or out. In accordance with South Carolina state law, photography is only permitted from the public right of way.
- Weather: Tours go on rain or shine. Prepare for inclement weather, if forecasted. The Preservation Society reserves the right to cancel the tours if threatening or unpredicted conditions arise. If the tour is cancelled by the PSC, all ticket holders will be contacted and refunds will be available.
- Other: High-heeled shoes are not permitted. We suggest wearing flat, comfortable walking shoes. In some cases, plastic shoe coverings may be required for entry and will be provided. Food and drink, other than capped water bottles, is not permitted inside.
- Cancellations and Refunds: All sales are final. Refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis until September 1. After September 1, guests who notify the office in advance may either exchange their tickets for a comparable tour if space is available or convert their ticket purchase to a tax-deductible charitable donation. Most tours do run waitlists once sold out – if you are no longer able to attend, please let us know so your space may be released.
