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

Hillside, Union County (S.C. Hwy. 215, Carlisle vicinity)
S1081774401701 S1081774401702 S1081774401703 S1081774401704 S1081774401705
Facade Right Oblique Right Elevation Left Elevation Interior
Parlor Mantel
S1081774401706 S1081774401707      
Outbuilding
Barn
Granite Gate Post

Hillside is a well-preserved example of the Federal style in upcountry South Carolina. It also chronicles various changes that occurred in design between 1820 and 1850. The proportion and details of the original part of the house reflect the delicacy of the Federal style; those of the later addition are heavier and reflect the Greek Revival. It is not know exactly when Hillside was built, but architectural analysis suggests it was constructed ca. 1820-30. Its builder, James Hill, moved with his wife to Union County to settle on land given to him by his father. They lived first in a log cabin and later built their permanent home. The house is a two-story clapboard structure that features a central double piazza with slender wooden columns of the Tuscan order. In the pediment is a semi-circular fanlight which is identical to those over the front doors which open onto the piazzas. The gable roof is covered with pressed tin shingles and the cornice is boxed. The structure was enlarged ca. 1850 by an addition to the right end which gave the house its present “L-shaped” plan. Sculptured gateposts are located at the end of the drive to Hillside. The tall granite posts feature designs in relief sculpture and are notable examples of folk art of the mid-nineteenth century. According to tradition, the posts were carved ca. 1861 by J. E. Sherman, a Union soldier who became ill and was left at Hillside to recuperate prior to the Civil War. Also included in the nominated acreage are a hand-hewn barn, a well with modern well-house, and another small 19th century structure. Listed in the National Register February 17, 1978.

View the complete text of the nomination form for this National Register property.

Most National Register properties are privately owned and are not open to the public. The privacy of owners should be respected. Not all properties retain the same integrity as when originally documented and listed in the National Register due to changes and modifications over time.

Images and texts on these pages are intended for research or educational use. Please read our statement on use and reproduction for further information on how to obtain a photocopy or how to cite an item.


Images provided by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History.