Columns By The Sea

the Roper House, Charleston, S.C.

Plot

Richard H. Jenrette's latest book, Columns by the Sea, focuses on Roper House in Charleston, S.C., located on the High Battery. This outstanding example of early 19th Century Greek Revival architecture commands a sweeping view of the Charleston Harbor and looks past Fort Sumter, where the Civil War started. Built in 1838 by Robert William Roper, a prominent cotton planter, Roper House is built on a monumental scale with massive two-story high Ionic columns raised above a first floor arched loggia pedestal base. It is said that Mr. Roper intended his showcase home to be the first residence seen by visitors approaching Charleston from the sea.