City Directories and History: RIGGS TENEMENTS
Constructed circa 1859
“These identical single houses were built by John Riggs in the late-1850s along with 15, 17, and 19 St. Philip Street. Riggs acquired these lots in 1859 and built the five Italianate houses as rental units. 90 Wentworth Street remains largely unchanged with its brick quoins, arched window in the gable end, and double-tiered piazza with a recessed piazza door screen containing carved decoration. However, a noticeable change in 88 Wentworth Street is the addition of a bay window in the second tier of its enclosed piazza. Riggs owned many properties around the city but is perhaps best remembered as the founder of Charleston’s first streetcar system, established in 1866.”
Information from: The Buildings of Charleston – J.H. Poston – Author, for the Historic Charleston Foundation, 1997
Other sources of interest: Charleston Tax Payers of Charleston, SC in 1860-61 and the Dwelling Houses of Charleston by Alice R.H. Smith – 1917 The HCF may also have additional data at: Past Perfect and further research can be uncovered at: Charleston 1861 Census Schedule or The Charleston City Guide of 1872
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