South Carolina Department of Archives and History
National Register Properties in South Carolina

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston County (S.C. Hwy. 61, Charleston vicinity)
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Facade,
2007
Rear Elevation,
2007
Grounds,
2007
Garden Path,
2007
Grounds,
2007
S1081771005006 S1081771005007 S1081771005008 S1081771005009 S1081771005010
Grounds,
2007
Swamp Garden,
2007
Cyrpess Bridge Grounds
Seawall
Facade,
1991
S1081771005011        
Rear Elevation,
1991

(Magnolia-on-the-Ashley) Magnolia Gardens, which consists of 390 of the original 1,872 acres, has a long heritage that dates back as far as 1672 when Morris Mathews, one of the first settlers to arrive in the province, received a warrant for 750 acres of land which eventually became part of the Drayton estate and Magnolia Gardens. The gardens were created by the Reverend John G. Drayton during the mid-nineteenth century and is the only private wild fowl sanctuary in the Charleston County area. It is also significant that Rev. Drayton planted many of the first camellias in South Carolina and through hybridization developed many new varieties. The property includes seven wooden slave cabins, the Drayton vault, the plantation house, in addition to the gardens and nursery. Magnolia Gardens has had three plantation homes built on its grounds since its beginning. Both the original and second home were destroyed by fire. The present home, built in 1873, is a one-and-a-half story stucco construction which includes a raised basement and tower. High steps lead to a piazza which is supported by Doric columns and enclosed with a balustrade. A two story, stucco tower is set in a gable roof which also features gabled dormers. Listed in the National Register December 11, 1972.

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