Nestled in the heart of Charleston’s historic district at 72 Queen Street, Poogan’s Porch isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a journey through time. Housed in a magnificent Victorian-era home constructed in 1888, this beloved establishment offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, culinary excellence, and a dash of the paranormal. For nearly a century, the neighborhood surrounding this grand residence remained a peaceful residential enclave, a testament to Charleston’s enduring charm.
From Residence to Restaurant: The Story of 72 Queen Street
As America celebrated its bicentennial in 1976, the winds of change gently swept through the neighborhood. Recognizing the potential of 72 Queen Street, local authorities granted permission to transform the stately house into a restaurant. This marked the beginning of Poogan’s Porch as we know it today, a culinary landmark that seamlessly blends history with modern dining.
The Heartwarming Tale of Poogan the Dog
The restaurant’s endearing name originates from a heartwarming and slightly whimsical tale. As the story goes, when the property at 72 Queen Street was purchased, the previous occupants departed in such haste that they inadvertently left behind a member of their family – a small, wiry-haired white dog named Poogan. Abandoned on the porch, the bewildered pup became an instant fixture.
Captivated by the dog’s gentle nature and apparent abandonment, the new owners embraced Poogan, making him the restaurant’s namesake. Another version of the story paints Poogan as a friendly neighborhood stray, a familiar face who frequented porches in search of a kind handout. As renovations began at 72 Queen Street, Poogan became a daily visitor, drawn by the activity and perhaps the promise of workmen’s lunches. The owners, charmed by his persistence, playfully declared the porch to be Poogan’s domain.
Regardless of the exact origin, Poogan was undeniably a real dog, not merely a fabricated mascot. He served as the restaurant’s official greeter for years, a beloved figure until his passing in 1979. Poogan remains deeply missed by the owners and the Charleston community, but his legacy lives on through the restaurant that proudly bears his name. Legend has it that if you visit Poogan’s Porch today, you might just catch a glimpse of a spectral canine – the legendary Poogan himself.
Unveiling the Spectral Residents: The Ghosts of Poogan’s Porch
Poogan’s spectral presence isn’t the only ghostly tale associated with the restaurant. The other prominent spirit is believed to be that of Zoe St. Amand. Long before Poogan’s Porch became a culinary destination, dating back to the early 1900s, Zoe resided at 72 Queen Street with her sister, Elizabeth. Zoe, a local schoolteacher, was considered a spinster by many, a perception reinforced by her preference for long black dresses and thin-framed glasses.
Zoe and Elizabeth shared an exceptionally close bond, finding solace and companionship in each other’s company, largely removed from the outside world. They lived a quiet, secluded life together for decades. Tragedy struck in 1945 when Elizabeth passed away. The loss of her closest confidante plunged Zoe into deep despair, and her mental health deteriorated rapidly.
One fateful night, Zoe wandered from her home, calling out for Elizabeth in distress. Concerned neighbors intervened, and Zoe was eventually taken to Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital. She remained under hospital care for the remainder of her life and was laid to rest in Charleston’s St. Lawrence Cemetery upon her passing.
The Lingering Spirit of Zoe
The ghost of Zoe is said to haunt her former residence, perpetually searching for her beloved sister, Elizabeth. Reports of Zoe’s spectral appearances surfaced shortly after her death but intensified after her home was converted into the restaurant. Ironically, despite being reclusive in life, her spirit seems drawn to the bustling atmosphere of Poogan’s Porch. Perhaps the longing to reunite with Elizabeth transcends her earthly aversion to crowds.
Staff and patrons alike have reported sightings of Zoe’s ghost roaming the premises. Some diners, unaware of the house’s history, have even interacted with Zoe, mistaking her for a real person. The realization that they encountered a paranormal entity often dawns upon them later, when they notice Zoe’s photograph hanging on the restaurant walls.
Guests staying at the hotel across from Poogan’s Porch, oblivious to the restaurant’s haunted reputation, have recounted seeing an elderly woman in a black dress standing at a top-floor window. On several occasions, these sightings prompted concerned calls to the police, with individuals believing a woman had been accidentally locked inside the restaurant and needed assistance.
Staff Encounters with the Supernatural
Poogan’s Porch boasts a rich tapestry of ghost stories, many originating from the restaurant staff. Bobbie Ball, the owner of Poogan’s Porch, has had her own personal experiences with Zoe. She vividly recalls an evening while closing up when she was startled by a wooden stool abruptly falling over, seemingly propelled by an unseen force. Following this, the restaurant door began to swing open and shut violently.
The daytime chef also had a memorable encounter with Zoe. Early one morning, while preparing coffee, he placed his freshly brewed cup on a stool after hearing a knock at the back door – a produce delivery. Upon returning, his coffee cup had vanished. Initially questioning his own memory in the pre-dawn hours, he decided to brew another cup. However, upon returning to his stool, the original cup reappeared, exactly where he had left it, now mysteriously empty and bearing a lipstick mark – perhaps Zoe’s subtle appreciation for the chef’s coffee.
Late one night, a staff member cleaning up after closing hours experienced an unsettling sensation of being watched. Despite finding nothing upon turning around, the feeling persisted. Later, while glancing in a mirror, she was startled to see not her own reflection, but the face of an elderly woman with wire-rimmed glasses – Zoe. The spectral image vanished moments later.
More Tales from the Haunted House
Another pastry chef, often working overnight to prepare fresh biscuits, had a series of eerie experiences. While baking one night, listening to music, she heard a loud commotion from upstairs, drowning out the radio. Curiosity overcoming her apprehension, she ventured upstairs to investigate, finding nothing amiss.
Returning to the kitchen and resuming her baking, she turned the radio back on. As one of her favorite songs played, she began to sing along, only to hear another voice joining in. Expecting to find a coworker playing a prank, she searched the entire restaurant, finding no one. The alarm was set, confirming she was alone. She concluded that she, too, had become part of Poogan’s Porch’s ghostly lore, serenaded by Zoe.
A Guest’s Ghostly Birthday
Even guests have had paranormal experiences at Poogan’s Porch. A woman named Elizabeth, ironically sharing a name with Zoe’s sister, chose Poogan’s Porch for her birthday dinner, drawn by its haunted reputation before embarking on a ghost tour. Using a ghost radar app during dinner, Elizabeth reported strong energy readings around her table, creating an unnerving atmosphere. Their server, noticing the app, shared a personal story of encountering a mysterious orb of light in the very corner where Elizabeth and her friends were seated.
Plan Your Visit to Poogan’s Porch
Located at the charming address of 72 Queen Street, Poogan’s Porch welcomes guests seven days a week, offering a dining experience reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting. Over the years, it has been the backdrop for countless family breakfasts, romantic brunches, and business lunches.
While savoring the exquisite Southern cuisine, keep a watchful eye out for the ghost of Poogan, rumored to brush against legs in search of dropped morsels. And perhaps a glance towards the restroom mirror for a possible chat with Zoe. If coffee is your order, drink it quickly, or you might just find Zoe has become a spectral coffee connoisseur.
Indulge in Southern Charm and Culinary Delights at Poogan’s Porch
For an unforgettable dining experience in Charleston, Poogan’s Porch is an absolute must-visit. The consistently exceptional food and service ensure a delightful meal. Given its popularity, especially on evenings and weekends, making reservations is highly recommended. You can easily secure your table and explore their menu by visiting their website. Discover the history, savor the flavors, and perhaps, encounter a ghost or two at Poogan’s Porch – a true Charleston treasure on Queen Street.
