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Bluegreen Lodge Alley Inn Restoration
By the mid 18th century, Charleston had become a thriving trade center. For the southern colonies, it was the centermost point for all Atlantic trade. In the late 1770s, this seaport town had positioned itself as the fourth largest port in the colonies—only behind Boston, New York and Philadelphia. As a result of the profitable shipping industry, the distinction of cultural capital of the south was bestowed upon Charleston. Understandably, the merchants needed space to store their goods. They found Lodge Alley in the French Quarter District of the old walled city of Charleston the perfect area because French Huguenots had already built a series of warehouses near the wharf. This location also gave the merchant landowners convenient access to their ships and docks from their homes.
Lodge Alley was just ten feet wide and paved with beautiful Belgian blocks, a local term for bricks shaped like blocks of granite cobblestone. The alley also has the honor of being one of the oldest streets in Charleston and was named after the Masonic Lodge just a short distance from East Bay Street.
The Inn that was almost out
Fast forward to 1973. Lodge Alley’s warehouses, and all the history attached to them, were about to be threatened. An ambitious developer with skyscrapers on his mind informed the city of Charleston that he had plans to demolish nearly one acre of buildings that lined Lodge Alley and the surrounding neighborhood. Luckily, the historic district was saved from demolition thanks to efforts of local citizens, Nancy Hawk and Nancy Stevenson. These two remarkable women started the Save Charleston Foundation and spearheaded a national campaign that raised more than $1.2 million to buy this property. New developers were brought in to renovate rather than demolish. They restored the warehouses to retain their original appeal and become valuable landmarks.
A warehouse filled with great amenities
Today, this collection of 18th century warehouses is home to the beautiful Lodge Alley InnTM, featuring exceptional resort accommodations. Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice that history has been well preserved. Old-world atmosphere comes alive with original pine floors and red brick walls, thick Oriental carpets, period reproductions and intimate parlors with fireplaces. Modern-day comforts and conveniences such as kitchens with refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, cable TV with DVD players and VCRs as well as uniquely appointed baths, complement its European heritage.
The Lodge Alley Inn is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Charleston—so park you car and hit the cobblestone streets on foot. Guided historic walking tours are popular and give you a great introduction to this charming city. For something really old school, you can have a horse-drawn carriage take you around town. There’s nothing like a day of sightseeing to work up an appetite for a great meal. Exceptional dining experiences abound and include the High Cotton Restaurant, a winner of Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence. The award-winning restaurant is part of the wildly popular Maverick Southern Kitchens.
For an historical adventure in a beautifully restored warehouse, the Lodge Alley Inn is the perfect place. Before you go, use our Charleston travel guide to plan your vacation.
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