South Carolina State Arsenal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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South Carolina State Arsenal
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 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | 337 Meeting St., Charleston, South Carolina |
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| Built | 1829 |
| Architect | Frederick Wesner and Edward B. White |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000577 |
| Added to NRHP | July 16, 1970 |
The South Carolina State Arsenal, also known as "The Old Citadel," is a historic building in Charleston, South Carolina. It was built in 1829. The building was created after a planned uprising by enslaved people, led by Denmark Vesey, was discovered in 1822. The uprising never happened, and Vesey was executed that same year.
This building later became one of the first homes for a famous military college. It has seen many changes over the years, from being a school to a government office, and now a hotel.
Contents
History of the Old Citadel
Early Days and Purpose
The South Carolina State Arsenal was built to help protect the city of Charleston. It was a place to store weapons and supplies. The idea for the arsenal came after the city felt a need for more security. This was especially true after the planned uprising by enslaved people in 1822.
Home to The Citadel Academy
In 1842, the state created the South Carolina Military Academy. This was a special college that taught both regular subjects and military skills. The very next year, the school took over the arsenal building. It became one of two campuses for the new academy. The other campus was the Arsenal Academy in Columbia. Because of how strong and fortress-like the building looked, the school became known as the Citadel Academy.
During the time after the American Civil War, from 1865 to 1881, the Citadel building was occupied by Federal troops. This meant the school had to close its doors for a while. Classes started again in 1882. The school continued to use this building until 1922. That year, The Citadel moved to a brand new campus. This new campus was built on the banks of the Ashley River.
Changes Over Time
After The Citadel moved, the building was used for other purposes. For much of the 20th century, Charleston County used the building for government offices. This shows how important the building remained to the city. In 1994, a local company worked to restore the building. They turned it into a hotel, giving it a new life.
Building Design and Changes
Who Designed It?
The original design of the Citadel building is credited to Frederick Wesner. He planned the first version of the arsenal. Later, another architect named Edward Brickell White made important changes to the building. Both men played a key role in shaping its look.
How the Building Grew
When it was first built by Wesner, the State Arsenal was a two-story brick building. It was built around a central courtyard. Around 1850, Edward Brickell White was in charge of making changes. He added a third floor to the building. He also added new sections, called wings, to the sides. Much later, in 1910, a fourth floor was added. This made the building even taller and larger than its original design.
Challenges and New Uses
Surviving Disasters
The building has faced some tough times. In 1886, a big earthquake hit Charleston. The Citadel building was only slightly damaged by this earthquake. However, it suffered more serious damage a few years later. In 1892, a fire broke out. It is believed the fire started in a chimney that had been cracked by the earlier earthquake. Despite these challenges, the building was repaired and continued to stand strong.
What It Is Today
Today, the historic South Carolina State Arsenal building is no longer a military academy or government office. In 1994, a company worked to renovate it. They transformed the building into a hotel. This new use allows many people to visit and appreciate its long history and unique architecture.
