Ansonborough Inn - Where to Stay in Charleston

Ansonborough Inn

History of the Inn

The Ansonborough Inn…for those familiar with maritime history, the very name speaks to its nautical heritage.
The Inn is located within the historic district of downtown Charleston, so named when Lord Anson of England won the property in a spirited poker game with famous Charlestonian Thomas Gadsden. Lord Anson was sent to Charleston in 1724 to protect the coast of South Carolina from pirates. Admiral Anson was by no means a mere gentleman with a title – he was an exceptional sailor by any standard. He was the third Englishman to circumnavigate the globe. On his many voyages he captured Spanish ships filled with treasures. The most celebrated being in the mid-1740's when he abducted a Spanish vessel carrying booty worth a million and a quarter pounds of sterling. The Ansonborough district stretches from King Street to the edge of the Cooper River, between Society and Calhoun streets. These farmlands were divided into a borough of 25 lots in 1746.

Development/Background

Originally a three-story stationer’s warehouse (circa 1901), the building was designed for individual condominium units. As a result our suites are larger than most hotel rooms. They range from 450 to 750 square feet, which is unlike the typical 288 sq.ft. hotel room. Following the original renovation, the Ansonborough Inn has been transformed into this charming all-suite inn rivaling any in the South. Exposed heart pine beams and local fire red brick were commonly used in buildings of the period and these elements were incorporated in the décor throughout the Inn.

What’s New?

The Inn was completely remodeled in 1999 by owners George & Sandra Fennell. In keeping with the nautical heritage of Admiral George Anson, the Fennells have overseen the transformation of the Inn into one of the Historic District’s truly unique properties. You’ll notice their attention to detail…handsome historic antiques and reproductions and a vast collection of original oil paintings throughout the guest suites and common areas.

Awards

The Ansonborough Inn received the Charleston Chamber of Commerce’s Enhancement Award for property beautification.