From Camden to Columbia: The Chesnuts' Journey to 1718 Hampton Street

People often ask Christal and me, “What makes your bed and breakfast different from the rest?” While there are many aspects that set us apart, one of the most unique is the rich history behind the Chesnut Cottage Inn. So, let’s take a little trip back in time to highlight how this charming cottage came to be. I hope you enjoy the journey!

In the mid-19th century, the bustling city of Columbia, South Carolina, became the new home for Mary Boykin Chesnut and her husband, James Chesnut Jr. Their decision to build a cottage at 1718 Hampton Street was influenced by a confluence of personal ambitions and the political landscape of the time. This move marked a significant chapter in their lives, transitioning from their pastoral origins in Camden to the vibrant heart of South Carolina’s capital.

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James Chesnut Jr. was born in Camden, South Carolina, in 1815, into a prominent family with substantial landholdings. Despite his father’s expectations, young James was not inclined toward agricultural pursuits. Instead, he harbored ambitions that extended far beyond the confines of the family farm. In the early 1840s, after completing his education at Princeton, James pursued a career in law, which soon paved the way for his entry into politics. His legal acumen and eloquence made him a respected figure in South Carolina’s political arena.

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Mary Boykin Miller, born in 1823, came from a similarly affluent background. Her marriage to James Chesnut Jr. in 1840 was a union of two influential families, strengthening their social and political ties. Mary’s keen intellect and literary talents complemented James’s political career, making them a formidable pair in South Carolina’s elite circles.

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By the 1850s, James Chesnut Jr. had become a prominent figure in state politics, serving as a state senator. His aspirations, however, did not end there. In 1858, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, further cementing his influence and presence in the political sphere. During this period, the couple resided in Camden, a small town that, despite its charm, was increasingly becoming a limiting environment for James’s political career and Mary’s social interests.

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The decision to build a home in Columbia was driven by several factors. Columbia, being the state capital, was the epicenter of political and social activities in South Carolina. For James, proximity to the capital meant easier access to the political arena and a more significant role in the unfolding events of the time. The couple chose 1718 Hampton Street for their new residence, a location that provided them with both convenience and prestige.

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Construction of the Chesnut Cottage began in the late 1850s, and by 1860, the house was ready to become their new home. The cottage was more than just a residence; it was a strategic move to immerse themselves in the dynamic environment of Columbia. The home’s architecture reflected the elegance and sophistication of the era, providing a suitable backdrop for the many social and political gatherings hosted by the Chesnuts.

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Mary Boykin Chesnut, an astute observer of the political and social climate, found Columbia to be an inspiring place. Her diaries, later published as "Mary Chesnut’s Civil War," provide a vivid account of the times, offering insights into the lives of the Southern elite during the tumultuous years of the Civil War. Living in Columbia allowed Mary to be at the heart of the action, recording the events and conversations that would become invaluable historical documents.

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James’s role during this period was equally significant. As a staunch supporter of states’ rights, he became an aide to Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the Civil War. His involvement in the Confederate government necessitated a close connection to the political hub, further justifying their move to Columbia. The cottage on Hampton Street became a sanctuary where they could strategize, host influential figures, and navigate the complexities of wartime politics.

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The Chesnut Cottage remains a testament to the couple’s ambitions and their contributions to South Carolina’s history. It symbolizes their transition from the pastoral simplicity of Camden to the vibrant and often tumultuous life in Columbia. The home at 1718 Hampton Street stands as a monument to their legacy, encapsulating the era’s challenges and triumphs.

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Mary Boykin Chesnut and James Chesnut Jr.’s decision to build their cottage at 1718 Hampton Street was influenced by their desire to be closer to the political and social heart of South Carolina. Their move from Camden to Columbia reflects a strategic choice to enhance their influence and engage more deeply with the unfolding historical events. Today, the Chesnut Cottage serves as a historical landmark, preserving the legacy of two prominent figures in South Carolina’s rich history. For more information on their 1718 Hampton Street home, now called The Chesnut Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast, visit Chesnut Cottage Inn .

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