Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina turns 95 today – First Opened its doors on February 7, 1924

Today, one of Charleston’s architectural jewels and landmarks is celebrating a very special day. 95 Years Ago Today, February 7, 1924, the Francis Marion Hotel, standing proudly on the corner of King and Calhoun opened its doors for the first time. Let us learn a little bit more of the proud history in words and pictures.

Happy Birthday Francis Marion Hotel!!! Cheers to you.

History of the Francis Marion Hotel

Meticulously restored in 1996 with a National Trust for Historic Preservation award-winning restoration, the Francis Marion Hotel now combines 1920s style and grace with 21st-century comfort and convenience in the heart of historic Charleston on Marion Square. Rising 12 stories, many of the hotel’s 234 guestrooms and suites offer spectacular views of Charleston’s historic harbor, church steeples, and legendary King Street. Its central downtown location is an easy walk from the antebellum homes, magnificent gardens, antique shops, boutiques, and world-class restaurants.

The historic Francis Marion Hotel, named for the Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion, the “Swamp Fox,” has a long tradition of gracious service and elegant accommodations, hosting splendid banquets and events dating back to its opening in 1924. Built by local investors at a cost of $1.5 million from plans by New York architect W.L. Stoddard, the Francis Marion was the largest and grandest hotel in the Carolinas. The 1920s was the Golden Age of railroads, radio and grand hotels–the Charleston Renaissance was in full bloom and the Francis Marion Hotel was “the place to be.”

History credit by historichotels.org

Photo Credit – Header – The Telegraph