A Historic Gem
A Historic Gem – Richmond Plantation, A 154-Acre Waterfront Estate in the Heart of the Cooper River Historic District
Description:
Nestled along the eastern branch of the Cooper River, Richmond Plantation offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a magnificent piece of history in one of South Carolina’s most desirable locations — the Cooper River Historic District. Spanning over 154 acres of pristine waterfront land, this exceptional estate combines natural beauty with historic grandeur, making it the perfect blend of town and country living. Just a short distance from Charleston, Richmond Plantation offers remarkable privacy, nestled within a 10,000-acre protected wildlife management area.
The entrance to this spectacular estate is marked by a grand 3-mile driveway, flanked by centuries-old live oaks draped with Spanish moss. As you approach the heart of the plantation, you are greeted by the breathtaking English country manor that serves as the centerpiece of the property. Originally built in 1927 by George A. Ellis, co-founder of E.F. Hutton & Co., the manor home is an architectural masterpiece designed in Shavian-style by the renowned New York City firm Clinton and Russell, famous for their work with the Astor family. The manor is an asymmetrical, one-and-a-half-story structure with two single-story wings, housing 5 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms, and 3 half bathrooms. It boasts a chef’s kitchen, butler’s pantry, grand dining hall, library, and an expansive sitting room, all meticulously restored over a 5-year period by the current owners.
The manor’s English artisan details are a marvel — from the perched gargoyles to casts of King Charles I, high-pitched slate roofing, and handcrafted woodwork. One of the most remarkable features is the 12th-century fireplace, a true testament to the grandeur of the design. This historic home was originally intended as a hunting lodge on the expansive property known as Bonneau Ferry, reflecting the influence of prominent Northeastern businessmen who sought distressed Southern plantations for recreation post-Civil War.
In addition to the main manor house, Richmond Plantation boasts three other Shavian-style buildings: a one-bedroom carriage house, a charming barn, and a dog kennel converted into a second guest home. A newly constructed managers’ home and excellent management team are also on-site. For boating enthusiasts, the estate features a 60’x30′ boat house, nestled at the end of an old rice channel, and was recently featured in the popular Netflix series “Outer Banks”.
Dating back to the 1700s, the Revolutionary cemetery and walled camellia garden on the property add to its rich history. The camellias, still cut and sent to Charleston, are a legacy of the Harleston family, the original rice planters of the land. A small, tranquil reflection pond sits near the barn, marking the spot of the original plantation home, which tragically burned in the early 1900s.
Richmond Plantation is not only a sanctuary of history and architecture but also a haven for nature lovers. The estate boasts a wealth of wildlife, including a thriving deer and turkey population perfect for hunting. The 3.5-acre stocked fishing pond offers ideal conditions for fishing, and the 6-acre dove field is a favorite for wing shooters. For equestrian enthusiasts, the property features a large horse barn, walking and riding trails, and a pavilion for entertaining. There are also ample opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and more, making it a perfect fit for an active lifestyle immersed in nature.
Richmond Plantation is a rare gem that offers an extraordinary combination of privacy, historical significance, and modern amenities. Whether you are looking for a private estate, hunting retreat, or simply a place to escape into nature, this remarkable property offers it all. Don’t miss out on the chance to own this one-of-a-kind plantation that perfectly balances historic elegance and natural beauty.
