City Directories and History: DR. ROBERT BARNWELL RHETT HOUSE – Constructed 1926-28, Simons and Lapham, architects
The newly formed partnership of Albert Simons and Samuel Lapham utilized their exceptional knowledge of Charleston Neo-classical detailing in the planning of this Revival style dwelling for Dr. and Mrs. Robert Barnwell Rhett. Standing on a large lot enclosed by a handsome brick coping with wrought-iron fence and gates topped with cast stone Neoclassical caps and spheres, the building is constructed of hand-molded brick laid in a variant of the Flemish bond pattern. A double curvilinear stair approaches a Neoclassical portico with fluted Tuscan columns, detailing that is repeated in a piazza on the east side of the building. A pediment supported by console brackets projects from the slate roof, echoing the other Federal houses in the city.
The Buildings of Charleston – J.H. Poston 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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