Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
National Register Listing
Street Address:
10 mi. NW of Charleston on SC 61 (Charleston County)
Alternate Name:
Magnolia-on-the-Ashley
NRHP Nomination
Record Number:
S10817710050
Description and Narrative:
(Magnolia-on-the-Ashley) Magnolia Gardens, which consists of 390 of the original 1,872 acres, has a long heritage that dates back as far as 1672 when Morris Mathews, one of the first settlers to arrive in the province, received a warrant for 750 acres of land which eventually became part of the Drayton estate and Magnolia Gardens. The gardens were created by the Reverend John G. Drayton during the mid-nineteenth century and is the only private wild fowl sanctuary in the Charleston County area. It is also significant that Rev. Drayton planted many of the first camellias in South Carolina and through hybridization developed many new varieties. The property includes seven wooden slave cabins, the Drayton vault, the plantation house, in addition to the gardens and nursery. Magnolia Gardens has had three plantation homes built on its grounds since its beginning. Both the original and second home were destroyed by fire. The present home, built in 1873, is a one-and-a-half story stucco construction which includes a raised basement and tower. High steps lead to a piazza which is supported by Doric columns and enclosed with a balustrade. A two story, stucco tower is set in a gable roof which also features gabled dormers. Listed in the National Register December 11, 1972.
Period of Significance:
1850;19th century
Level of Significance:
National
Area of Significance:
Social History;Commerce;Conservation;Landscape Architecture
National Register Determination:
listed
Date of Certification:
December 11 1972
