Charleston: The Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour

Charleston’s rich history comes alive on the Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour. For just $50, explore the stunning Greek Revival architecture and uncover the fascinating legacy of the Alston family during the Civil War. With 90% of the home’s original furnishings still intact, this 1.5-hour guided experience offers an intimate glimpse into Charleston’s past. Conveniently located with hotel pick-up, the tour promises an unforgettable adventure for history enthusiasts. But what secrets and stories wait to be discovered within the walls of this remarkable house?

Key Points

• The Edmonston-Alston House walking tour offers a 1.5-hour experience, including a 1-hour guided walking tour and a 30-minute house tour.
• The tour focuses on Charleston’s history, the Alston family’s role during the Civil War, and the house’s Greek Revival architecture.
• The Edmonston-Alston House contains 90% of its original furnishings, providing an immersive glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s elite.
• The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and hotel pick-up for added convenience.
• The walking tour begins at the Edmonston-Alston House and explores Charleston’s rich history, architecture, and the Alston family’s legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour is a 1.5-hour experience that combines a guided walking tour along South Broad Street and a 30-minute tour of the historic house itself.

Priced at $50 per person, the tour is conducted in English with a live guide. Highlights include exploring Charleston’s rich history, learning about the Alston family during the Civil War era, and admiring the Greek Revival architecture of the Edmonston-Alston House, which was constructed in 1825 and retains 90% of its original furnishings.

Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour starts and ends at the Edmonston-Alston House, with hotel pick-up included.

Exploring Charleston’s Rich History

Charleston’s location on a peninsula bounded by two rivers has profoundly shaped its unique history and lifestyle. The Battery, a significant site, enhances the tour experience, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Explore the rich history along South Broad Street, where the Edmonston-Alston House stands as a testament to Charleston’s resilience during the Civil War era. Learn about the Alston family and admire the Greek Revival architecture that has stood the test of time. Uncover the stories that lie within the walls of this historic home, where 90% of the furnishings were originally owned by the family.

Charleston’s Unique Characteristics	Significance
Location on a peninsula	Shaped history and lifestyle
Bounded by two rivers	Contributed to distinct culture
The Battery	Significant historical site
South Broad Street	Rich historical context

The Alston Family During the Civil War

During the tumultuous years of the Civil War, the Alston family, owners of the Edmonston-Alston House, found themselves at the heart of Charleston’s dramatic events.

As Union forces besieged the city, the Alstons witnessed firsthand the impact of the conflict. They sheltered wounded Confederate soldiers and endured the hardships of the siege.

The house played a significant role, serving as a hospital and refuge for those affected by the war.

Visitors to the Edmonston-Alston House can explore this captivating history and gain insights into the experiences of Charleston’s residents during this pivotal chapter in American history.

Edmonston-Alston House’s Greek Revival Architecture

Constructed in 1825, the Edmonston-Alston House boasts a stunning Greek Revival architecture that transports visitors back in time.

The home’s symmetrical façade, grand columns, and pediment roof are hallmarks of the Greek Revival style, which was popular in the early 19th century.

Inside, the ornate moldings, intricate woodwork, and elegant rooms reflect the wealth and sophistication of the Alston family who lived here.

Visitors can admire the well-preserved original furnishings and gain insights into the daily lives of Charleston’s elite during the antebellum period.

The Edmonston-Alston House stands as a remarkable example of Charleston’s architectural heritage and a window into the city’s captivating history.

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Furnishings Originally Owned by the Family

Of the furnishings within the Edmonston-Alston House, a remarkable 90% were originally owned by the family who resided there.

This rare preservation of the family’s personal belongings offers visitors a unique glimpse into their daily lives and decorative tastes.

The house contains:

1. An impressive collection of elegant Charlestonian antiques, including Chippendale and Hepplewhite furnishings.
2. Porcelain, silver, and crystal items that were used by the Alston family.
3. Intricate wallpapers, fabrics, and window treatments that showcase the home’s original design.

This unparalleled preservation allows visitors to truly step back in time and enjoy the history of the Edmonston-Alston House.

Booking and Reserving the Tour

Booking the Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour is a straightforward process.

Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later, ensuring they don’t miss out on this captivating experience. Simply check the availability of starting times and book your tour.

The tour lasts 1.5 hours, including a 1-hour guided walking tour and a 30-minute house tour. Prices start at $50 per person, and the tour is conducted in English with a live guide provided.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from and returns to the Edmonston-Alston House, with hotel pick-up included for added convenience.

Meeting Details and Starting Point

The Edmonston-Alston House serves as the starting and ending point for this captivating walking tour. Guests won’t need to worry about transportation, as hotel pick-up is included.

The tour’s meeting details are straightforward:

1. The tour begins and concludes at the Edmonston-Alston House.
2. The guided walking portion lasts 1 hour, followed by a 30-minute house tour.
3. The total duration of the experience is 1.5 hours.

Exploring Charleston’s rich history along South Broad Street and admiring the Edmonston-Alston House’s Greek Revival architecture make this tour a must-do activity for anyone seeking to enjoy the city’s captivating past.

Charleston’s Unique History and Lifestyle

Charleston’s unique history and lifestyle stem from its strategic location on a peninsula bounded by two rivers. This geography has long shaped the city’s fortunes, from its early days as a hub of the colonial trade economy to its central role in the American Civil War.

The Battery, a defensive seawall and promenade, is a testament to Charleston’s storied past. Today, the city’s antebellum architecture, bustling cultural scene, and lively coastal lifestyle continue to captivate visitors.

Exploring Charleston’s rich history and picturesque setting provides an immersive glimpse into the city’s enduring charm and character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?

The tour provides accessibility for guests with disabilities. Accommodations like wheelchair access to the house and restrooms are available. Visitors with special needs should contact the tour operator in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can Visitors Take Photos Inside the Edmonston-Alston House?

Yes, visitors are typically allowed to take photos inside the Edmonston-Alston House, though flash photography may be prohibited. It’s best to check with the tour guide or staff upon arrival for any specific photography guidelines.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Walking Tour?

The Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. The tour is suitable for all ages, and children are welcome to join. Visitors can participate in the 1.5-hour experience, which includes a guided walking tour and a tour of the historic house.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no information provided about extending the tour duration. The standard tour length is 1.5 hours, which includes a 1-hour guided walking tour and a 30-minute house tour. Extensions or customizations may be available upon request, but are not mentioned in the tour details.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Larger Private Groups?

Yes, the Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour can be customized for larger private groups. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate group needs, including adjusting group size, duration, and pricing.

Recap

Discover Charleston’s captivating past through the Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour. Enjoy the intriguing Alston family’s history during the Civil War, while marveling at the house’s well-preserved Greek Revival architecture and original furnishings. With convenient hotel pick-up and flexible cancellation, this tour offers an unmissable opportunity to explore Charleston’s unique heritage. Don’t miss this chance to uncover the city’s rich tapestry of stories.

You can check if your dates are available here: