Col. William Rhett House

Col. William Rhett House is a two-story brick residence on Hasell Street in Charleston featuring a symmetrical facade with dual front staircases characteristic of colonial design. The structure displays typical features of early 18th-century residential architecture found throughout the region.

The house was built between 1712 and 1720 as the main residence of Point Plantation and later served as the home of Colonel William Rhett, known for capturing pirate Stede Bonnet. The property changed hands in 1807 when Christopher Fitzsimmons purchased it, and it subsequently became the birthplace of a future U.S. Senator.

The house displays early 18th-century Charleston architecture with its dual front staircases and brick construction, typical of homes built for prosperous families of that era. This style shaped the appearance of residential neighborhoods at the time and remains a window into local craftsmanship from that period.

The house is located in the Ansonborough neighborhood near several other historical sites in downtown Charleston. The best time to explore is outside the hottest summer months when the area is more comfortable to walk through.

The house was the birthplace of a political figure whose career significantly shaped the state and nation, making it more than just an architectural landmark. This connection links colonial history with modern American political development.

Location: Charleston

GPS coordinates: 32.78310,-79.93050

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:08