The Ansonborough Hotel, With Charleston's Historic Charm And Modern Elegance
Tucked peacefully away in the historic district near the Charleston Harbor, The Ansonborough stands as a traditionally brick masterpiece, bridging the past with the future. To better understand the hotel’s significance for this region, one should consider its place within a city with a rich and diverse history. The hotel is not only a witness to Charleston's diverse background, but it is also ushering in a new level of refinement and polish with its modern style, amenities, and services.
I stayed at the iconic hotel so I could fully immerse myself in the historic district and the city's culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. The interior is reminiscent of a merchant sea captain's house with its exposed beams, subtle lighting, and nautical motif, in honor of the British Royal officer after whom the hotel is named.
Charleston’s Historic District
The Ansonborough is located on Hasell Street in the city's oldest and most adored neighborhood. Within walking distance of the hotel are iconic sites, including Rainbow Row, The Battery, and the Nathaniel Russell House. Walking the compact streets provides a tangible way to explore the rich history that dates back to the late 17th century.
The Battery aligns with the naval history of Ansonborough, offering scenic views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter, while Rainbow Row features a collection of 13 colorful Georgian homes. The district is an area of firsts for the country, including its first theater, Dock Street Theatre, and its first museum, the Charleston Museum. Soaking in the boutique hotel's heritage and pairing it with these exciting sites offers a unique perspective on the historical tapestry of the region.
Hotel History
The intimate hotel has its own distinctive history, initially constructed in 1920 as a paint and varnish factory, the only one in the Palmetto State. The brick warehouse supplied products such as the iconic Charleston Green and other colors, which were applied to many establishments, including the walls of Fort Moultrie. It transitioned in 1952 to a stationer's warehouse and regional distribution center by adding truck ramps, chutes, and conveyors. The changes modernized the 32-year-old building, which remained active until 1987, when it was remodeled again into the Ansonborough Hotel.
The warehouse was converted into a residential building, featuring hotel rooms and private condos, in July 1987. The idea was to blend modern luxury with Charleston's legacy, and the designers hit the mark. The name was derived in honor of the neighborhood it is located in, the first in Charleston. The interior honors its warehouse roots and nautical lore, with wharfside history just outside the front door, which can also be viewed from the third-floor Rooftop Garden.
Royal Navy Officer Ansonborough and Charleston’s First Neighborhood
From the hotel's name to the Scarborough and Squirrel Bar, Ansonborough honors its naval past in virtually every detail. The name comes from Admiral George Anson, a young British naval officer who arrived in the historic seaport in 1724 aboard the HMS Scarborough. While at the port, he received a 64-acre land grant behind the old city walls, possibly for his military service, though some rumors insist he won the grant during a card game. Either way, this large plot of land became Charleston's first neighborhood, an idyllic plot on the harbor that has always been an essential part of the local economy.
Anson, ever the adventurer, would eventually return to England, achieving international acclaim by circumnavigating the globe. Along the way, he would capture a Spanish galleon and be awarded the title of Admiral of the Fleet, the British Royal Navy's highest honor. His land in Charleston was converted into a neighborhood in 1745, and it holds the distinct honor of being the city's first planned suburb. Several roads in Anson pay homage to the town's namesake: Scarborough Street, Squirrel Street, and Garland Street. The latter streets are named after two ships on which Anson served early in his distinguished career.
The Rooftop Garden
One of my favorite features of the Ansonborough is its Rooftop Garden. It features several tables, loveseats, and gorgeous views of the harbor, iconic church steeples, and the Cooper River Bridge. The comfortable seating arrangements share the space amidst foliage and unique paintings on the brick walls. The area provides a respite from all the excitement of exploring the historic district, and guests are encouraged to bring their favorite beverages from the Scarborough and Squirrel Bar in the lounge area. The staff also offers a Sunset Cocktail Hour from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Scarborough and Squirrel Bar
The bar is located next to the front door and adjacent to the inviting lounge area, where guests receive a complimentary and cooling White Point Refresher. The cocktail is a light drink created for hot days, made with vodka and cucumbers, that can be enjoyed in the lounge or on the rooftop. The chic bar and hidden poker room are visually appealing spaces featuring curated cocktails and Carolina charcuterie.
Local Restaurants and Venues Near the Ansonborough
The culinary scene is just as enjoyable as the heritage sites in historic Charleston, and there are many landmarks to consider. I had the distinct pleasure of dining at the Tempest on my first night in town and the Grocery on night two. Each one offered impeccable service, unique decor, and an elevated menu that paired well with the wine selection.
The Tempest is housed in a former mariner's church, adding to the city's rich maritime heritage, and features stained glass ceilings overlooking the bustling City Market. The Grocery was warm and inviting, stocked with house-made charcuterie, local seafood, and fresh vegetables. I recommend either one or a sophisticated dining experience, each embracing the authentic cultural flair of the historic district.
The Ansonborough seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance, complemented by the timeless beauty of Charleston's historic district. The luxury rooms, rooftop garden, and lounge area encapsulate the characteristics of this fascinating city, showcasing its decor and sophistication. It is within walking distance of many landmark sites and venues in the historic district, adding to its charm.
One of the best ways to experience the historic side of any city is to plan an immersive stay, which is why I chose Ansonborough for my trip. Its sophistication blended seamlessly with its historical side, an excellent combination that is rare to find. The chic hotel represents Charleston well and has more than enough amenities to please any guest.
