William Blacklock House, Federal architectural residence in Charleston, United States
The William Blacklock House is a three-story brick residence in Charleston featuring a double staircase entrance decorated with marble keystones and ornamental wrought iron railings at 18 Bull Street. The College of Charleston manages this property, which sits within the Charleston Historic District and includes large grounds with two separate outbuildings.
Built in 1800 for a merchant connected to the Branch Bank of Charleston, the house reflected the city's economic prominence during that era. It received National Historic Landmark status in 1973, recognizing its architectural and historical importance to the city's early development.
The residence displays Federal period design elements with elliptical fanlights and sidelight windows that reflect early American domestic style. The attached outbuildings later adopted Gothic Revival features, showing how architectural tastes changed over time.
The property sits on Bull Street within the Charleston Historic District and is easily accessible on foot among other historic buildings in the area. Visitors should note that the grounds are managed by the college and hours may vary depending on the academic schedule.
A hidden basement entrance sits beneath the dual staircase and is concealed by columns arranged according to Palladian architectural principles. This concealed door shows how early American homes combined practical elements with refined facades.
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