The Williams Mansion — Attraction in Charleston

Ok. Most of these negative reviews totally miss the point. This is an amazing home built at the height of the Victorian period and this type of ornamentation and decoration is spot on in its authenticity. Victorian may not be your cup of tea, but if you are an art historian or just an historical enthusiast of any sort, you know that this sort of display of wealth, culture and influence was definitely in line with the nouveau riche of the day. I love this home. I saw it through all of its stages - back in the 80's - 90's when it was owned by the young lawyer who took on its total renovation, when the bare bones were visible and then came back time and again to see what he'd done and how far he'd come - so glad he took on the project. And now, my family and I have seen the home through the current owner's eyes. It's a different vision, sure, but it's authentic and appropriate as a representation of what was going on in Charleston at the time. The original owner had the money to 'wow' everyone with his vision of a post-Civil War home. He was displaying his wealth on a grand scale and no matter if it is an unusual home amongst all of the 'beautiful ladies' on the peninsula, it deserves to be represented as a snapshot of the times so soon after the Civil War had ended. Kudos to the current owner who has taken on a worthy project and allows people to come in and see a spectacular home, lovingly curated and cared for. And make no mistake...it is a worthy project that is very costly to undertake. Definitely worth the admission price to know it goes back into upkeep and...

This mansion, by far, was the highlight of our extensive Charleston visit. Although we visited more than 10 houses and 5 plantations, Calhoun stood out! We did the Grand Tour, which was worth every penny of its hefty $75/person price tag. We got a generous 90 minute private tour, which included many floors, many rooms, and the largest, most impressive collection of art and antiques collection I have ever seen from around the world (and I say this as someone who visited the Newport mansions and historic homes throughout NY, NJ, CT).

We took our three kids with us (ages 8-9 yo), and they loved it as much as my husband and me. The tour guide was especially great with them, pointing out items that would especially appeal to them, and allowing them to go on the antique elevator. We truly felt like special guests in a private home. The fact that the house is actively lived in by its owners also wowed me. We felt very fortunate that they shared their beautiful collection with us. At the end, we were hugging folks goodbye, as we purchased the book, which includes great photography of the many rooms and items - a wonderful souvenir.

Please, take the time, and the extra expense, to check out the Grand Tour, which is far more extensive than the standard cheaper tour....

We found this place on our first visit to Charleston. We just happened to walk by, the front entrance chandelier caught my eye, then I read Calhoun Mansion on the outside rod iron fence. Being the reality tv junkie that I am the name Calhoun jumped out at me (Cathryn Calhoun Dennis from southern charm) We passed by at about 5:15 and the last tour is at 5 so we came back the next day. All I can say is WOW!!! We did the $17 tour and it was amazing. Later to find out they have a $75 tour that is more in depth. We will definitely recommend this gem to anyone we know who may be visiting Charleston. It truly is an optical treat, you see sooo much. Even if you’re not a fan of antiques or history, it’s still something magical to see. I can almost guarantee you have never seen anything like it and probably never will. It is so unique. It’s hard to imagine how one individual can collect so many jaw dropping pieces. We will definitely be back and will do the $75 in depth tour. To the owner of this masterpiece I say this, thank you for sharing such a private piece of your life with us. Also, I’ll be turning 30 November 2019 can I have my party in your house? By party I mean a slice of coconut cake from the peninsula in your dinning room 😂 but...