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Behind Charleston's most iconic wrought iron gates lies one of America's most extraordinary historic residences: the legendary Sword Gate House. Located along prestigious Legare Street in the heart of Charleston's coveted South of Broad neighborhood, this magnificent estate is a masterpiece of Federal-style architecture, layered with more than two centuries of history, timeless elegance, and architectural significance.Originally constructed in the early 1800s and expanded over generations, the residence is famed for its iconic sword-shaped wrought iron gates crafted by renowned Charleston ironworker Christopher Werner. Installed by British consul George Hopley in the mid-19th century, these extraordinary gates have become one of Charleston's most recognizable architectural symbols and gave the estate its enduring name. Set behind towering masonry walls and lush gardens, this spectacular compound unfolds as a private world unto itself, where grand salons, elegant ballrooms, sweeping piazzas, and richly detailed interiors evoke the romance, grandeur, and sophistication of Charleston's golden age. Exquisite plasterwork, intricate period millwork, soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and centuries-old craftsmanship blend seamlessly with a meticulous, design-driven restoration that elevates the estate to an exceptional standard of modern luxury. Set on approximately .87 acres, one of the largest residential parcels in downtown Charleston, the estate offers an extraordinary sense of privacy and tranquility in the heart of the historic district. Enclosed by towering masonry walls and lush, mature landscaping, the grounds have been transformed into a series of beautifully designed outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Manicured gardens, elegant hardscapes, dramatic landscape lighting, and an integrated sound system complement a new heated and cooled swimming pool and spa. A striking linear water feature, anchored by a glass conservatory, creates a dramatic focal point between the main residence and the carriage house. An inviting garden dining area with brick wood-burning fireplace provides an intimate setting for outdoor entertaining, while three levels of gracious piazzas overlooking the gardens and a magnificent 200+ year old magnolia tree. The estate's remarkable privacy is enhanced by its substantial perimeter walls, gated entrances, and discreet off-street parking, including a rare two-car garage and generous additional parking with a long driveway off Tradd Street. Together, these features create a level of seclusion, security, and convenience seldom found in historic Charleston. The Sword Gate House has served many roles throughout Charleston's storied history, from private residence to girls' academy, inn, and cultural landmark. Its legendary gates have welcomed diplomats, prominent Charleston families, famous artists, musicians, actors, and literary figures. Today the estate remains one of the city's most celebrated and architecturally significant properties, embodying the history, mystique, timeless grandeur, beauty, and elegance that define luxury Charleston living. The current owners have undertaken an extraordinary renovation, in collaboration with Cortney Bishop Design. The Charleston-based firm led the interior design throughout the estate, reimagining the property while honoring its architectural heritage. The firm's work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, ELLE DECOR, Galerie, House Beautiful, LUXE Interiors + Design, RUE, Southern Living, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Veranda which led the interior design throughout the estate, meticulously reimagining the property while honoring its architectural heritage. At Sword Gate House, the design balances the home's historic architecture and original millwork with contemporary details and a warm, livable sensibility. Virtually every surface has been thoughtfully restored or enhanced, with an emphasis on exceptional craftm
| DAYS ON MARKET | 6 | LAST UPDATED | 10/19/2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| TRACT | South of Broad | YEAR BUILT | 1803 |
| COMMUNITY | 51 - Peninsula Charleston Inside of Crosstown | GARAGE SPACES | 2.0 |
| COUNTY | Charleston | STATUS | Active |
| PROPERTY TYPE(S) | Single Family |
| Elementary School | Memminger |
|---|---|
| Jr. High School | Simmons Pinckney |
| High School | Burke |
| ADDITIONAL DETAILS | |
| AIR | Central Air, Other |
|---|---|
| AIR CONDITIONING | Yes |
| APPLIANCES | Built-In Electric Oven, Dishwasher, Disposal, Dryer, Gas Range, Ice Maker, Microwave, Other, Range Hood, Refrigerator, Washer |
| AREA | 51 - Peninsula Charleston Inside of Crosstown |
| CONSTRUCTION | Stucco, Wood Siding |
| EXTERIOR | Balcony, Lighting, Other, Rain Gutters |
| FIREPLACE | Yes |
| GARAGE | Yes |
| HEAT | Central, See Remarks |
| INTERIOR | Cathedral Ceiling(s), Eat-in Kitchen, Elevator, Entrance Foyer, High Ceilings, In-Law Floorplan, Kitchen Island, Other, Pantry, See Remarks, Walk-In Closet(s), Wet Bar |
| LOT | 0.87 acre(s) |
| LOT DIMENSIONS | 0.87 |
| PARKING | Detached, Off Street, Other, Garage Door Opener |
| POOL | Yes |
| POOL DESCRIPTION | In Ground, Private |
| SEWER | Public Sewer |
| STORIES | 4 |
| STYLE | Traditional |
| SUBDIVISION | South of Broad |
| WATER | Public |
MORTGAGE CALCULATOR
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Listing Provided by Maison Real Estate
The data relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Broker ReciprocitySM program of the Charleston Trident Multiple Listing Service, Inc (CTMLS). All real estate listings are marked with the CTMLS Broker ReciprocitySM thumbnail logo (a little black house) and detailed information about them includes the name of the listing brokers.
The broker providing this data believes them to be correct, but advises interested parties to confirm them before relying on them in a purchase decision.
Copyright 2026 Charleston Trident Multiple Listing Service, Inc. All rights reserved.
The broker providing this data believes them to be correct, but advises interested parties to confirm them before relying on them in a purchase decision.
Copyright 2026 Charleston Trident Multiple Listing Service, Inc. All rights reserved.
This IDX solution is (c) Diverse Solutions 2026.