Nestled in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, just a stone’s throw from the picturesque White Point Garden, lies a captivating bed and breakfast with a rich history: Two Meeting Street Inn. This iconic inn, located at 2 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC, is not just a place to stay; it’s a journey back in time, offering guests an intimate glimpse into Charleston’s elegant past and enduring Southern charm.
A Wedding Gift with a Storied Past
The story of Two Meeting Street Inn is deeply intertwined with Charleston’s post-Civil War history and the prominent Williams family. In an era when wealth was scarce in the South, George Williams, a successful businessman, built a grand Victorian mansion for himself at 16 Meeting Street around 1876. This opulent home served as a testament to his prosperity and marked the beginning of a fascinating family legacy in Charleston.
Years later, in 1890, Williams’ daughter, Martha, celebrated her marriage to Waring Parker Carrington of the well-known King Street jeweler family. As a wedding gift, George Williams presented Martha with a generous sum, reportedly $75,000 – a considerable fortune at the time – to build a home of her own. This extraordinary gift materialized into the stunning Queen Anne style residence at Two Meeting Street, completed around 1892. Thus, the inn’s origins are rooted in love and family, setting the stage for its romantic ambiance.
Tiffany Windows and Enduring Family Legacy
Adding to the allure of Two Meeting Street Inn, the newlyweds, Martha and Waring, further embellished their home with exquisite Tiffany windows in 1895, commemorating their fifth wedding anniversary. Local lore suggests that Louis Comfort Tiffany himself may have visited Charleston to oversee the installation of these artistic masterpieces, although documented evidence remains elusive. Regardless, these windows stand as a testament to the refined taste and affluence associated with the inn’s early days.
The establishment of Two Meeting Street also speaks to the strong family bonds prevalent in Southern culture at the time. It’s believed that George Williams wished to keep his youngest daughter close, reflecting the importance of familial proximity and support. Indeed, Charleston and the Lowcountry were characterized by intricate networks of family ties, where kinship was a defining aspect of social life.
A Charleston Honeymoon Destination
Over the years, Two Meeting Street Inn has affectionately been dubbed the “honeymoon or wedding cottage,” a nod to its romantic beginnings and its long-standing reputation as a premier bed and breakfast. Its intimate atmosphere and charming architecture have made it a sought-after destination for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic getaway in Charleston. Beyond honeymooners, the inn’s unpretentious elegance and picturesque setting have also made it a favorite subject for artists and photographers, both local and visiting, who are captivated by its timeless beauty.
Martha Williams Carrington’s legacy extends beyond Two Meeting Street Inn. In honor of her mother, who passed away in 1905, she generously funded the construction of the Williams Music Pavilion in White Point Garden, also known as the Gazebo or Bandstand. Completed in 1907, this iconic structure, with Martha’s initials inscribed within, once hosted lively concerts, adding to the vibrant cultural scene of Charleston. While regular concerts at the Gazebo are no longer held, the hope remains that the City of Charleston might revive this cherished tradition, allowing music to once again fill the air of White Point Garden. In the meantime, visitors to Two Meeting Street Inn and White Point Garden can still appreciate the historical significance and enduring beauty of these Charleston landmarks.
In conclusion, Two Meeting Street Inn Charleston Sc offers more than just accommodation; it provides an immersive experience in Charleston’s history, romance, and Southern hospitality. From its origins as a wedding gift to its present-day charm as a beloved bed and breakfast, Two Meeting Street Inn remains a captivating destination for those seeking an authentic Charleston experience.
