said, Gina K., from Alabaster, Alabama…
In walking along the battery today, it appeared that some of the lovely homes looked like no one lived in them. Are they second homes for some fortunate owners?
We also noticed in front of a couple of the homes, some sort of ironwork next to the doorway. One was curved and another was more squared in shape. Are they something to clean boots or shoes?
Thank you for all of your beautiful Glimpses of Charleston!
Gina… while many of the houses in the historic district are vibrant primary residences, there are quite a few that are second (or third or fourth…) homes for their owners. The Roper House is a great example. One of the most significant houses in the city, it is owned by Dick Jenrette, as part of his collection of significant American houses (the Classical American Homes Preservation Trust). Depending on the house, you can hear the sounds of families with kids or the silence of it waiting for the owners to visit.
With regard to the ironwork, you nailed it. They are boot/shoe cleaners. A simple, yet elegant solution for keeping the dirt outside the wonderful houses.
Thanks for asking, and so glad you enjoy the Glimpses!