Historic Mills House Hotel

On our recent whirlwind trip to Charleston, South Carolina, our gracious hosts (and dear friends) booked us in the historic Mills House Hotel, the only hotel in Charleston's Museum Mile.

Originally built in 1853 by entrepreneur Otis Mills and designed by architect John E. Earle, this hotel’s prime location was chosen for its proximity to the nearby market, businesses and grand homes. When it opened its doors in November of 1853, it boasted a wrought-iron balcony imported from Philadelphia, terra-cotta window cornices from New England and conveniences liked steam heat and running water.

Through the years, The Mills House, a jewel among Charleston South Carolina hotels, has been host to many distinguished guests including General Robert E. Lee during the Democratic National Convention in 1860 and Theodore Roosevelt during the South Carolina Interstate and West Indian Exposition in 1901-1902. After changing hands through the 1900s and surviving a fire in 1939, the interior of the Mills House Hotel underwent a complete renovation in the 1970. Although the original height was left intact, the building was divided into seven levels (I was also told the wrought-iron balcony is original).

I loved the hotel's location on Meeting Street. I took a walk Saturday morning to the Circular Congregational Church (and three or four other historic churches), the John C. Calhoun Mansion, numerous historic homes, all the way to The Battery and Charleston Harbor.

It was a lovely stay, in a distinctive hotel, in a breathtaking city.