The Hanover House, Circa. 1716

Hanover House, circa 1716

By Laurie Epps

My middle daughter has chosen Clemson University for her undergraduate work, and when perusing the website, I discovered that there isn't just one historic home on the grounds, but instead, 3! Being just a mere half an hour from my home, it was a logical choice for my fashion blog. 

This year, the Hanover House is celebrating its tricentennial. Originally located in the lowcountry (the coastal side of SC), it was relocated to the upcountry (the Blue Ridge side of SC) to the South Carolina Botanical Garden in 1994 which is on the Clemson University Campus.

My Fashion:

My Bright Yellow Dress -- Lane Bryant
Stackable Pearl Bracelets on Stretchy Cording -- Lane Bryant
Pearl Necklace & Earrings -- Made for me by a former friend --Timmy's Treasures
Metallic Wedge Sandals by Sketchers -- Rack Room Shoes
Black Purse -- New York & Co.

My daughter, Ellen, approaching Hanover House

Hanover House: Early History

Hanover House was built between the years of 1714-1716 for French Huguenot Paul de St. Julian in the S.C. lowcountry just outside Charleston. His grandparents, Pierre St. Julien Sr. and Jeanne LeFibure de St. Julien fled France with their 9 children, for religious persecution in 1685. The large family was accompanied by their young friend, Rene Ravenel by way of England and then South Carolina.

Peu a Peu

Peu a Peu

There's a French proverb that translated means, "Little by little, the birdie builds it's nest." By no doubt, this was said many times during the two year construction part of this house. Since I lived in France for a year in my youth, it really resonated with me. Not only is my favorite writing book, Bird by Bird by Ann Lamont, it's a good philosophy not just for writing, but for life.

Widened Door in Hanover House

Ellen's Fashion:

White Skirt & Grey Shirt -- New York and Co.
Black & White Handbag by Fossil -- Dillard's
Silver Watch -- New York & Co.

This particular picture was chosen because of it's oddity for the house. The doors were widened in the late eighteenth century to accommodate hoop skirts. Ellen graciously posed in front of the door to give my readers an idea of size.

Ellen ascends the staircase

All in the Family

The original home was built in modern day Berkeley County. It was built as planned as a home made of bricks and cypress with French details. Through the years, Paul acquired 1,000 acres from his father & mother (Pierre St. Julian Jr. & Damaris Elizabeth LeSurrurier).  When Paul died in 1741, he left his estate to his daughter, Mary. Nine years later Mary married Henry Ravenel, their union produced 16 children that were all born at the Hanover House. Their sons fought in the Revolutionary War with General Francis Marion (the swamp fox). When Henry died, his son Stephen purchased his siblings share of the estate and was a member of the SC Legislature as the secretary of state. The estate continued to change hands through the years to his brother, and later his nephew until 1904.

Hanover House 1716-2016

Visitor Information

Hanover House is open weekends only as long as it's not a school holiday. You can view the house:

Saturdays: 10 a.m. -12 noon or
                 1-4:30 pm
Sundays:   2-4:30 pm

They ask for a donation of $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $2 for children. If you'd like to schedule a tour, or call 864-656-4789. 



To learn more about Hanover House History, go to there website:
http://www.clemson.edu/about/history/properties/hanover/

Or for more visitor information, go to their website:
https://www.clemson.edu/about/history/properties/tour.html

Family Photo at the SC Botanical Gardens in Clemson, SC

Today is my youngest daughters eighth birthday. So I dedicate this blog to my daughters, Ellen and Chloe. Thank you for putting up with mom on my historic adventures.