Charles Town’s First Suburb
Every Charleston neighborhood has its own personality, and Ansonborough brings together charm, history, and an easy coastal lifestyle. Because it sits in one of the oldest parts of Historic Charleston, the neighborhood gives you a striking glimpse into life on the peninsula in the mid-1700s. As you walk the quiet streets, you can easily imagine how the earliest residents of Charles Town lived, worked, and built their community.
Lifestyle in Ansonborough
To start, Ansonborough sits on the eastern side of the Charleston peninsula, bordered by Cannon Street, Meeting Street, the City Market district, and the Cooper River. Thanks to its central location, residents enjoy a walkable lifestyle with quick access to some of Charleston’s favorite destinations.
Even though the neighborhood is rich in history, it supports a wide range of modern lifestyles. You’ll find restored homes dating back to the 1700s, along with elegant single-family homes, townhomes, and luxury condos. Because the Charleston Harbor sits only a short distance away, a gentle salt breeze often drifts through the neighborhood and reminds you of Charleston’s nautical past.
In addition, Ansonborough’s tree-lined streets and relaxed urban feel create a comfortable environment for everyday living. Residents also enjoy being close to well-known attractions and cultural landmarks, including:
- The South Carolina Aquarium
- The Gaillard Center
- The Charleston County Library
- Charleston’s City Market
- Waterfront views, boutique shops, and popular local restaurants
All of these features make Ansonborough a welcoming place for anyone who wants a blend of history, walkability, and coastal charm.
Historical Home Prices In Ansonborough
A Story with Color and Character
Ansonborough holds the title of Charles Town’s first suburb, so it naturally has a colorful story. In the early 1700s, Thomas Gadsden owned the original 64-acre tract. Later, Capt. George Anson—only 26 at the time—took ownership of the land. According to the most popular local story, he won the property in a card game.
At that point in his life, Anson already had a growing reputation as a skilled sea captain who protected the Carolina and Georgia coastlines from pirates. After he returned from his service in 1745, he had the means and the interest to shape the neighborhood. He planned the streets, divided the lots, and gave Ansonborough the layout that still exists today.
During the late 1700s and early 1800s, the neighborhood grew steadily. However, everything changed in 1848 when the Great Fire swept through the area and destroyed most of its homes. While only a few structures from the 18th and early 19th centuries survived, residents rebuilt quickly. As a result, many of today’s historic homes date back to the mid-1800s.
20th Century to Today: Revitalization and Preservation
By the early 20th century, Ansonborough needed new energy. Fortunately, the Historic Charleston Foundation stepped in during the 1960s and launched a major revitalization effort. Their work made a significant difference. They restored more than 100 homes and encouraged additional restoration throughout the neighborhood.
Because of these efforts, Ansonborough began to rebuild its identity. The renewed interest inspired homeowners, investors, and preservationists to continue improving the area. Over time, the neighborhood regained its charm and once again became one of Charleston’s most admired historic districts.
Find Your Place in History
Today, Ansonborough offers a rare opportunity to live in a neighborhood that blends history, convenience, and coastal living. When you own a home in Historic Charleston, you enjoy the charm of centuries-old architecture while staying close to restaurants, shops, and some of the city’s most iconic attractions.
Feel free to explore our search tools to discover available homes in Charleston. As you browse, you might find that Ansonborough is exactly the place where you want to write your own chapter of Charleston history.
👉 Go Back To Read About The Other 11 Boroughs in Historic Charleston
Frequently Asked Questions – Ansonborough
Ansonborough sits in one of the oldest areas of the Charleston peninsula and offers a close look at life in the mid-1700s. Its restored homes and well-kept streets help preserve that early history.
The neighborhood sits on the eastern side of the Charleston peninsula, close to Cannon Street, Meeting Street, the City Market, and the Cooper River. Its central location makes daily life convenient and walkable.
You’ll find a mix of lovingly restored historic homes, elegant single-family residences, stylish townhomes, and upscale condos. Many of these homes reflect Charleston’s rich architectural past.
Yes. Tree-lined streets, nearby shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks make Ansonborough one of Charleston’s most explorable historic areas.
The South Carolina Aquarium, the Gaillard Center, the Charleston County Library, and the City Market are all just steps away, along with beautiful waterfront paths and local dining.
Authors
Bill Byrd and Waverly Byrd bring deep real estate expertise to clients throughout the Charleston area, drawing on years of hands-on experience with residential sales, investment property, relocation, and local market strategy. Their guidance is grounded in market knowledge, careful analysis, and a commitment to helping clients make well-informed real estate decisions.
As a father-and-daughter team, they work collaboratively on every transaction, combining experience, perspective, and consistent communication. Clients benefit from a coordinated approach that emphasizes preparation, clarity, and thoughtful execution at each stage of the buying or selling process across the Lowcountry.