The Governor’s House Inn, a National Historic Landmark on Broad Street, was sold this month for $5.3 million. Mona Kalinsky, an agent with William Means Real Estate, represented the seller. 

Located at 117 Broad St., The Governor’s House Inn was built by James Laurens in 1760 as a Georgian double house, with a center stairway and two large rooms on either side. Typical of that style, the home is tall, lofty and symmetrical. It was renovated in 1885 by owner Captain Wagener who added a spiral staircase – a common feature of the popular Victorian homes of the time. The heart of pine floors, fireplaces and triple-hung windows are all original. 

Ownership later passed to Edward Rutledge, who lived in the home from 1776 until his death. Rutledge served in both the First and Second Continental Congress, and, at age 27, became the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence. His portrait and a copy of the Declaration of Independence hang in the home’s foyer.

Today, the home operates as a bed and breakfast with 11 suites as well providing space for corporate retreats and wedding parties. 

The new owner of The Governor’s House Inn is Karl Novak, a member of Mount Pleasant law firm Richardson, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC. It will continue to operate as a bed and breakfast. 

About William Means Real Estate 
Founded in 1933, William Means Real Estate is one of the oldest real estate companies in Charleston. Helen Lyles Geer has been owner and broker-in-charge since 1999. In 1997, William Means Real Estate became an exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate. William Means has an office on Broad Street in downtown Charleston and an office in Mount Pleasant to assist clients in the East Cooper area. In 2009, William Means began representing homes in the award-winning I’On neighborhood of Mount Pleasant. For more information, visitcharlestonrealestate.com.