Robert Smalls House facts for kids
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Robert Smalls House
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U.S. National Historic Landmark District
Contributing Property |
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HABS photo, c. 1980
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 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | 511 Prince St., Beaufort, South Carolina |
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| Built | 1839 |
| Part of | Beaufort Historic District (ID69000159) |
| NRHP reference No. | 74001823 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 30, 1974 |
| Designated NHL | May 30, 1973 |
| Designated NHLDCP | November 7, 1973 |
The Robert Smalls House is a very important historic house located at 511 Prince Street in Beaufort, South Carolina. It was built in 1843. This house is famous because it was the home of Robert Smalls (1839-1915). He was a remarkable person who was born into slavery.
Robert Smalls became known for a brave act during the American Civil War. He took control of a ship called the CSS Planter and sailed it to freedom. After the war, he became a leader. He even represented South Carolina in the United States House of Representatives during a time called Reconstruction. In 1974, his house was named a National Historic Landmark. This means it is a place of great national importance.
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About the Robert Smalls House
The Robert Smalls House is in the middle of Beaufort. You can find it at the corner of Prince and New Streets. It is a two-story building made of wood. The roof slopes down on two sides.
There is a two-story porch on the front of the house. This porch faces south. A two-story section extends from the back, making the house look like a "T" shape. The house was first built in 1843. It originally had a one-story porch and back section. These parts were made taller in 1850 and again in 1870.
Who Was Robert Smalls?
Robert Smalls was born in 1839. He was born into slavery in this very house. His owner was Henry McKee. Robert spent most of his early years here.
Around 1851, McKee sent Robert to work in Charleston. Robert worked on the docks there. He learned many skills, including how to sail ships.
Robert Smalls' Brave Act
In 1862, during the American Civil War, Robert Smalls performed an amazing act of bravery. He was working on the CSS Planter, a Confederate ship. One night, he took control of the ship. He sailed it past Confederate forts and delivered it to the Union fleet. This was a huge step towards his freedom.
After the War
After his brave escape, Robert Smalls served in the Union Navy. He became a pilot for Union ships. His courage helped show that African-American soldiers could be brave and effective. This was a key reason why the Union Army started to allow African-American soldiers to join.
After the war ended, Robert Smalls became involved in politics in South Carolina. He worked to help his community. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He served several terms, working for the rights of African Americans during the Reconstruction period.
