History of the Glover Sottile House: A Legacy of Elegance and Prestige

Nestled in the heart of Charleston’s historic Harleston Village, the Glover Sottile House is a breathtaking testament to the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this grand estate dates back to pre-1775, evolving over centuries into a refined residence that has hosted dignitaries, artists, and society’s elite. With its storied past, European influences, and lush gardens, this mansion is a living masterpiece—offering a glimpse into Charleston’s golden era of sophistication.

A Timeless Estate in the Heart of Charleston

 

Spanning two addresses (79 & 81 Rutledge Avenue), the estate comprises three distinct buildings, each with its own historical significance:

• The Main Mansion (1826) – A stunning neoclassical home designed for grand entertaining, featuring expansive piazzas, stately rooms, and intricate architectural details.

• The Original House (pre-1775) – A charming, historic structure now divided into luxurious rental accommodations.

• The Carriage House – A three-story former carriage house that once housed carriages and servant quarters, now repurposed for storage.

 

Located just a short walk from King Street, Colonial Lake, Broad Street, and the College of Charleston, this estate offers a rare combination of seclusion and accessibility in one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.

The Glover Sottile House
The Glover Sottile House
Glover Sottile House

Architectural Beauty & Historic Charm

 

Built in 1826 by Dr. Joseph Glover, a prominent physician and urban greenery advocate, the main house is a masterpiece of Southern elegance, designed with 18- to 36-inch-thick brick walls to withstand the test of time. Over the years, it has served as the Italian consulate, a prestigious girls’ school, and a residence for Charleston’s most notable figures, including banker Arthur Gordon Rose and Italian diplomat Giovanni Sottile.

 

The mansion’s grandeur is defined by its exquisite craftsmanship and European influences:

• French gold-leaf cornices framing the windows, mirrors, and doors.

• Hand-carved English vestibule doors, adorned with intricate fruit relief designs.

• Ornate wrought ironwork reminiscent of Charleston’s finest antebellum homes.

• Stunning Italianate embellishments, a nod to its diplomatic past.

 

Despite its age, the estate has been meticulously preserved, with the original floor plan intact and modern enhancements seamlessly integrated, including a 2023 kitchen renovation and structural reinforcements to ensure its longevity.

A Storied Past: From Diplomacy to High Society

 

Few Charleston homes can claim to have hosted royalty, but the Glover Sottile House is one of them. Under the ownership of Italian Consul Giovanni Sottile in the early 20th century, the mansion welcomed King Victor Emmanuel of Italy, further cementing its place in international history.

 

Before that, it served as a gathering place for Charleston’s elite banking, political, and academic circles, as well as a beloved private school for girls. Since 1999, its current owners have lovingly maintained its historic charm, ensuring it remains a beacon of grandeur and exclusivity.

Gardens & Entertaining: A Charleston Oasis

 

Beyond the mansion’s stately interiors lies a breathtaking garden sanctuary, designed for both intimate gatherings and lavish celebrations. The formal garden, shaded by 80-year-old sago palms, is adorned with:

• Loquats, pomegranates, camellias, hydrangeas, and azaleas, all lovingly tended by the estate’s caretakers.

• Expansive outdoor space, ideal for hosting cocktail receptions for up to 120 guests.

• A stately dining room, where 20 distinguished guests can enjoy elegant seated dinners amidst antique furnishings and gilded accents.

 

Over the years, the mansion has been the backdrop for charity galas, musical soirées, and private celebrations, offering an unparalleled ambiance of historic grandeur.

 

A Charleston Treasure, Reserved for the Discerning Few

 

The Glover Sottile House is more than just a historic home—it’s an experience. A rare gem in Charleston’s exclusive event landscape, this estate offers access to a world of refinement, history, and prestige. Whether for an elegant soirée, an intimate dinner, or a bespoke gathering, the mansion provides a setting that is both timeless and unforgettable.

 

For those who know, this is Charleston at its finest.