Throwback: Iconic Commercial Buildings in Downtown Charleston

Charleston is full of wonderfully preserved historic buildings and homes. The decades of history shine through many parts of the city through colors, textures, and clear signs of architecture from a different time. While our city works tirelessly to preserve the rich past, time marches on, and the city must also adapt and change to meet the needs of its community and appeal to visitors.

Downtown is home to several historical and iconic commercial spaces. They blend seamlessly with the cobblestone streets and bustling restaurants and shops. If you aren’t looking for them, they can be easily missed – but not because they are not meaningful – they merely have been in place for so long they are a part of the downtown landscape. Today, we’re feeling nostalgic and appreciative of some of the most iconic commercial buildings in downtown Charleston.

(Photo Credit: Berlin's Clothing)

Berlin’s Clothing. Berlin’s Clothing initially opened in Charleston in 1883 and is still family owned and operated today. The store survived the massive earthquake of 1886 and Hurricane Hugo. It still stands proudly at the corners of King and Broad Streets providing classic styles to local residents and tourists. Read the whole story here.

(Photo Credit: Post and Courier)

Morris Sokol Furniture Building. After 94 years in business, the upper King Street fixture closed its doors in 2015 and has sat vacant since. Just this month we learned that the 37,000-square-foot space will be home to a boutique hotel, street-level storefronts, and condos. Read more about the plans here.

(Photo Credit: Wikipedia 

McCrady’s Tavern. Built by Edward McCrady, McCrady’s first opened its doors in 1778 as McCrady’s Longroom and was a favorite dining destination for the most discerning eaters including President George Washington. Over the years, it operated as a tavern, warehouse, and a paper company. Today, the space remains true to its roots serving up American cuisine and southern hospitality.

 

Photo Credit: M. Dumas and Sons

M. Dumas & Sons. In 1917, Mendal Dumas opened the store as a uniform service shop and was the sole provider of Naval uniforms for officers stationed in Charleston for many years.  The shop evolved to become one of the city’s best men’s specialty clothing stores. Still family owned and operated, the Dumas family is dedicated to preserving and maintaining the historic building so it will last for generations to come.

Photo Credit: Croghan's Jewel Box

Croghan’s Jewel Box. We’re big fans of repurposing cool buildings into new businesses, and Croghan’s Jewel Box may have started the trend downtown Charleston more than 100 years ago. In 1903, William Joseph Croghan opened his business on the porch of a Charleston single on King Street. Eventually, the shop expanded to take over the entire building. The shop is still operating in the same spot today and is a favorite among locals.  

Print This Post Email This Post

Share on Social Media: