Behind the Big House
Designed to interpret slavery and the places where enslaved peoples lived and worked.
Insider’s Tours take guests inside some of Charleston’s finest buildings, seldom open to the public. These tours are guided by noted professionals such as architects, historians, and preservation experts with in-depth interpretation focused on Charleston’s unique architectural styles, layered history, preservation ethic, and design. Each tour includes a unique set of 3 – 4 properties and lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with complimentary refreshments included.
Behind the Big House is a national program specifically designed to interpret slavery and the places where enslaved peoples lived and worked. This Insider’s Tour will feature many kitchen houses and outbuildings in Charleston’s South of Broad neighborhood that once operated as part of urban plantation complexes. Learn about the stories of enslaved workers who once occupied these spaces and see the layers of history within their walls.
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 instructions via email 3-5 days prior to the tour.
- 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.
