William Means Sells James Simmons House for $7.51 million

-Holly Fisher, H.A.F. Creative

A unique pre-Revolutionary house constructed in the heart of Charleston’s oldest neighborhood went under contract in just a week and sold today to a Charleston couple for $7.51 million. Lyles Geer of William Means Real Estate closed on the James Simmons House at 37 Meeting Street, securing the second highest residential sale in downtown Charleston.

Built in the 1760s by Charleston attorney James Simmons, the house is most notable for its role as a principal Confederate headquarters during the Civil War. It also served as the 1800s residence for famous Charleston merchant Otis Mills, builder of the nearby Mills House.

The 8,384-square-foot James Simmons House has retained its original Georgian-era floor plan, defined by a central hall with four flanking formal rooms, and its mid-19th century “double-breasted” addition at the façade defines the residence as a rare and exceptional architectural resource within Charleston’s historic district.

After the Great Earthquake of 1886, the house was categorized as “badly injured” in city records and in need of a “thorough overhauling.” The house suffered $3,750 worth of damage to the exterior walls and chimneys (the equivalent of about $100,000 today). At that time, the house was the primary residence of Confederate Army leader James O’Conner.

Throughout the 1900s, the house remained in the Conner family for many generations before it was sold to Frank Gilbreth, author of “Cheaper by the Dozen.” In 2000, the house underwent a major exterior restoration, and the foundation for the demolished carriage house and privy were excavated.

“This house is a historic gem in the heart of downtown Charleston,” said Geer, Broker with William Means Real Estate. “The rare architecture, beautiful gardens, and storied past make this house a classic Charleston home.”