18-04-2025
New audio tour explores the Heyward-Washington House and its connection to the American Revolutionary War
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – You can learn about a historic Charleston home's powerful connection to the American Revolutionary War through a newly launched audio tour.
Coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the war's beginning on April 19, 1775, the Charleston Museum – America's first museum – is bringing past to life at the Heyward-Washington House and the key role of Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and the events that unfolded within and around his Charleston townhouse.
The tour will feature stories of resistance and resilience, including the often-overlooked contributions of Lowcountry women and the enslaved, according to the museum. It also highlights artifacts within the house and the direct ties to war.
'We are excited about the launch of this new tour, a mission-focused initiative that will not only educate guests about the impact of the Revolutionary War on Charleston and the Lowcountry, but also contribute to area commemorations concerning the founding of our nation,' said Charleston Museum Director Carl Borick.
The Georgian-style home, built in 1772, hosted George Washington when he visited Charleston in May 1791. It was acquired by the Charleston Museum in 1929 and opened to guests a year later as Charleston's first historic house museum.
It was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1978.
During their visit, guests can explore the only colonial-era kitchen building that is open to the public in Charleston, and formal gardens that feature plants commonly used in the Lowcountry in the late 18th century – those gardens are maintained by the Garden Club of Charleston.
The Heyward-Washington House, located at 87 Church Street, is open for tours Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. The new audio tour is included with admission to the house.
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