Fort Hill

National Register Listing

Street Address:

Clemson University campus, Clemson, SC (Pickens County)

Alternate Name:

John C. Calhoun Mansion & Library

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NRHP Nomination

Record Number:

S10817739008

Description and Narrative:

Fort Hill (John C. Calhoun Mansion & Library), the plantation home of John C. Calhoun during the last 25 years of his life is today well-maintained in the center of Clemson University campus. When he moved to the house in 1825 Calhoun was Vice President of the United States, at the height of his career, having gained national recognition as one of the “War Hawks” in the Twelfth Congress and as Secretary of War under James Monroe. He long aspired to the presidency, without success, but he did serve another cabinet position, as Secretary of State under John Tyler in 1845. In 1850 Calhoun died and Thomas G. Clemson, his son-in-law, eventually inherited the estate. Clemson lived in the mansion for many years and he willed the estate to the state of South Carolina for the establishment of an agricultural and mechanical college, with a provision to provide for the preservation of the Calhoun mansion. The Greek Revival mansion and office are all that remain from the former 1,100-acre plantation with many outbuildings. The one-room library or office is located about fifty feet south of the mansion. Listed in the National Register October 15, 1966; Designated a National Historic Landmark December 19, 1960.

Period of Significance:

1825 – 1850

Level of Significance:

National

Area of Significance:

Politics/Government

National Register Determination:

National Historic Landmark

Date of Certification:

October 15 1966

Date of Certification as a National Historic Landmark:

December 19 1960

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