Edmondston-Alston House

Charleston


Charles Edmondston built this Federal-style home in 1825 for a mere $25,000, and fell on hard times in 1837, forcing him to sell it to Charles Alston for $15,500. The Alston family upgraded the home in Greek Revival style, and it remains in their possession, with one member continuing to reside on the 3rd floor. A couple of other rooms and a carriage house out back operate as a high-end B&B.

The docent-led tour brings guests through the public rooms, which feature intricate woodwork, family artifacts and an original print of the Ordinance of Secession. The 2nd floor and piazza are ideal spots to view the harbor.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Charleston attractions

1. Calhoun Mansion

0.11 MILES

If you've ever wondered what the wealthiest, fanciest, most well-traveled hoarder's house might look like, visit the Calhoun Mansion. With 35 rooms and 24…

2. Battery & White Point Garden

0.17 MILES

The Battery is the southern tip of the Charleston Peninsula, buffered by a seawall. Stroll past cannons and statues of military heroes in the gardens,…

3. Joggling Board

0.22 MILES

In the yard of the Nathaniel Russell House sits a fine specimen of a super-Charlestonian porch furnishing – the joggling board. It consists of a 16ft…

4. Nathaniel Russell House

0.22 MILES

A spectacular, self-supporting spiral staircase is the highlight at this 1808 Federal-style house, built by a Rhode Islander, known in Charleston as 'King…

5. Heyward-Washington House

0.25 MILES

As the name hints, this 1772 Georgian-style town house is kind of a big deal because George Washington rented it for a week, and visitors can stand in…

6. Rainbow Row

0.26 MILES

With its 13 candy-colored houses, this stretch of Georgian row houses on lower E Bay St is one of the most photographed areas in Charleston. The…

7. St Michael's Church

0.35 MILES

St Michael's is the oldest church in town, dating back to 1752, and its beloved bells have been announcing the time and various events, including…

8. Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

0.36 MILES

Kids love the creepy dungeon, used as a prison for American patriots held by the British during the Revolutionary War. The cramped space sits beneath a…