18th Century Mansion - Drayton Hall

Drayton Hall is considered one of the finest examples of Georgian-Palladian architecture in the United States. Preservation rather than restoration is the heart of this stately 18th century mansion. Surrounded by live oaks and bordered by the historic Ashley River in South Carolina, Drayton Hall offers daily guided house tours and programs, customized private tours, and educational programs that bring to life the history of the site and the stories of its people for visitors of all ages.

[Photo Credit:Carol M. Highsmith's America, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division]

Drayton Hall was constructed, using both free and slave labor, between 1738 and 1742 on the Ashley River northwest of Charleston, South Carolina for John Drayton, a member of the King’s council for the colony of South Carolina. The Drayton’s were prominent in the economic, political, military, and social history of the state. The hall was the property of the Drayton family until 1974 when it was acquired by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. 

Drayton Hall Northeast Elevation

[DRAWING CREDIT: Historic American Buildings Survey (Library of Congress)]

In order to preserve the seven generations of history within its walls, the house has never been restored. Drayton Hall is one of three popular plantations in the Ashley River area (Magnolia and Middleton are the other two) but this structure has been preserved in its original state, untouched and without furniture which makes it a unique experience to tour.

[DRAWING CREDIT: Historic American Buildings Survey (Library of Congress)]

Drayton Hall was the only plantation house on the west bank of the Ashley River not burned during the Civil War. One legend surrounding its survival during those closing months of the war claims it was spared because it served as a hospital for smallpox victims, therefore the troops dared not enter the grounds for fear of their own health. The fact that few changes were made since that time contributes to the significance of the building.

Stair Hall Details

[DRAWING CREDIT: Historic American Buildings Survey (Library of Congress)]

Drayton Hall is the oldest preserved plantation house in America that remains open to the public and a masterpiece of Georgian-Palladian architecture. The interior encompasses some of the finest 18th century detailing and paneling in America. Particularly notable are the elaborate double staircase, mantels, and decorative plaster ceilings.

Drawing Room Mantel and Overmantel

[DRAWING CREDIT: Historic American Buildings Survey (Library of Congress)]

Dating back to the 18th century, Drayton Hall‘s African American cemetery is one of the oldest in the nation, documented and still in use. The final resting place of at least 40 individuals, enslaved and free. Recent research shows that the burial grounds extend beyond the boundaries of the present day site and that there are likely hundreds more buried here. On October 9, 2010, the African American Memorial, inspired by famed Charleston blacksmith Philip Simmons and crafted by his protégés, was dedicated at the entrance to the cemetery, an enduring tribute to the people of African descent who have contributed to Drayton Hall from its earliest inception.

Drayton Hall is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day, and New Year’s Eve and Day. www.draytonhall.org