Simmons-Edwards House

Introduction

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The Simmons-Edwards House is considered one of the finest homes in Charleston. Erected around 1800, its builder and first owner was wealthy planter Francis Simmons and it is an excellent example of Federal architecture. The house is three-stories tall and features a raised basement, and a two-story "piazza" consisting of porches on the first and second floors supported by Corinthian and segmental arches, respectively. Perhaps the most notable feature of the house is the wrought iron fence, which has brick columns topped by ornamental carved pine cones. Locals, however, thought the pine cones looked like pineapples and as a result the house was dubbed the "Pineapple House." The property also includes outbuildings and a large garden with an area containing hedges in the shape of a shamrock.

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Built in 1800, the Simmons-Edwards House is an outstanding example of the Federal architectural style. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark.

Backstory and Context

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The Simmons-Edwards House is historically significant for its Federal architecture. For this reason, it is not only listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is also a National Historic Landmark. The design of the house was befitting of Simmons' prominent wealth and social status in the city. Interestingly, he was married but did not live with his wife, Ruth. She had deceived him into believing that the woman he was in love with was in love with another man. Before his marriage to Ruth, Simmons found out about the deception but, wanting to maintain his honor, went ahead with the marriage. He and Ruth lived in separate houses but stayed married and had an amicable relationship. He passed away in 1814.

Two years later, another wealthy man named George Edwards bought the house and installed the gates. The carved pine cones were made in Italy. Edwards also expanded the property and added the garden. The house continues to be a private residence.

Sources

Stephenson, Tray & Kearse, Bernard. "Simmons-Edwards House." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. October 9, 1960. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NHLS/71000753_text.

Whaley, Amelia. "14 Legare Street - The Pineapple Gates House." Charleston.com. August 17, 2017. https://charleston.com/charleston-insider/diary-of-a-charleston-tour-guide/14-legare-street-the-pineapple-gates-house.

Image Sources(Click to expand)

Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:14_Legare_St.jpg

Additional Information