Carolina Antique Maps & Prints: A Charleston, SC Treasure

By Mark A Leon

Nestled at 91 Church Street in the heart of historic Charleston, SC, Carolina Antique Maps & Prints is one of the city’s most beloved destinations for collectors and enthusiasts of rare antiquarian maps and prints. The shop features a rich trove of original works—each over a century old—spanning subjects from natural history (think Audubon and Catesby) to iconic maps charting Charleston’s coastline and the world beyond.

Ownership & Expertise

The gallery is owned and operated by Laura N. Vardell, Charleston’s premier authority on antique maps and prints. Laura has been intimately involved with Carolina Prints since 1985, fostering a passion for the art and science of cartography, as well as natural history illustration. Under Laura’s stewardship, the gallery is recognized as the oldest such business in Charleston specializing in genuine antiquarian prints and maps, with her expertise celebrated by both locals and international visitors.

History of the Shop

The shop traces its roots to the early 1960s, when it began dealing in antique paintings and prints. In 2001, Carolina Antique Maps & Prints, as it is known today, found its permanent home on historic Church Street, moving into the Catfish Row building (formerly Cabbage Row). This district is renowned for its cultural and artistic legacy, making it a fitting location for such a specialized gallery.

Laura’s tenure since the mid-1980s has made her a fixture in the city’s art and history scene, and she is known for her warm hospitality and willingness to share her encyclopedic knowledge. Visitors find not just rare items, but stories—about Charleston, about the artists, and about the evolution of printmaking and cartography through the centuries.

Offerings

• Antique maps from around the world, with a special emphasis on Charleston, the Carolinas, and the Southeast.

• Natural history prints, including birds, botanicals, marine life, and fauna.

• Original engravings by masters such as John James Audubon, Mark Catesby, and John Gould.

• Architectural and decorative prints.

Hours of Operation

• Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00AM – 4:00PM

• Sunday & Monday: Closed

Hours may occasionally vary, so it’s recommended to call ahead or check for the latest updates if planning a visit.

Carolina Antique Maps & Prints isn’t just a gallery—it’s a living chronicle of Charleston’s ties to art and discovery, and a testament to the enduring allure of vintage cartography and illustration. Whether you’re seeking a rare map, a beautifully preserved botanical, or simply a conversation with one of Charleston’s most knowledgeable art historians, this unique shop on Church Street awaits.

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