Charleston, South Carolina, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic collection of 13 pastel-colored houses that reflects the city’s rich architectural heritage. Founded by Susan Pringle Frost in 1920, the Preservation Society of Charleston played a crucial role in saving these homes from demolition. Today, Rainbow Row stands as a beloved tourist attraction, showcasing Charleston’s commitment to historic preservation and community engagement through events like the ‘Real Rainbow Row Tour.’ Its vivid colors and historical significance make Rainbow Row a must-visit destination in the city.
Charleston, South Carolina, is home to Rainbow Row, a vibrant string of 13 historic houses that has become one of the city’s most beloved visitor attractions. Located along East Bay Street, this colorful row not only showcases remarkable architecture but also represents the rich history of historic preservation in Charleston.
Tour guides and historians alike recognize Rainbow Row as a significant element in the city’s commitment to maintaining its historical integrity. Founded in 1920 by Susan Pringle Frost, the Preservation Society of Charleston played a pivotal role in saving these historic buildings from potential demolition. Frost notably purchased six of the homes on Rainbow Row, laying the groundwork for future preservation initiatives within the city.
The architecture of Rainbow Row features houses painted in various vivid pastel colors, which elegantly enhance the streetscape. Originally, these buildings served mixed purposes: the ground floors often housed businesses while residences were located above. Behind them, quarters for enslaved individuals and stables were common, revealing a multifaceted use of these structures throughout history.
Historically, the area faced significant challenges, including destruction from major fires. The earliest houses at what is now known as Rainbow Row were damaged in a fire in November 1740, with a subsequent incident in January 1778 further affecting the landscape. Yet, the character and legacy of these structures have endured, largely due to the efforts of preservation advocates such as Frost and her contemporaries.
Alongside Frost, Dorothy Haskell Porcher Legge made her mark on Rainbow Row in 1931 by painting her house a soft peach color. This act was not just an aesthetic choice; it served as an inspiration for other homeowners to embrace brighter colors, reinforcing the colorful identity that Rainbow Row boasts today. While the name “Rainbow Row” is often surrounded by myths, the vibrant colors were intended to improve the appeal and charm of the streetscape, enriching Charleston’s allure.
Today, Rainbow Row stands as a testament to the visionaries behind its preservation, significantly contributing to Charleston’s acclaim as a top tourist destination. The city has been recognized multiple times as the No. 1 U.S. city by readers of travel publications. Locals and tourists flock to this vibrant area for its aesthetic beauty and historical significance, making it a must-see stop on any visit to Charleston.
As part of ongoing efforts to educate the public about Rainbow Row and its historical context, the Preservation Society has organized events like the “Real Rainbow Row Tour,” which coincides with Pride Week, providing insight into both the attraction and its storied past.
Through community engagement and advocacy, the Preservation Society of Charleston is dedicated to the continuation of awareness and preservation efforts throughout the city, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the historical richness of landmarks like Rainbow Row.
Key Features of Rainbow Row
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East Bay Street, Charleston, SC |
| Number of Houses | 13 |
| Founding Year of Preservation Society | 1920 |
| First House Painted | 1931 |
| Main Colors | Vivid Pastels |
| Recognition | No. 1 U.S. City by Travel + Leisure (7 years running) |
FAQ
What is Rainbow Row?
Rainbow Row is a series of 13 historic houses located on East Bay Street in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, known for their vibrant pastel colors and historical significance.
Who was Susan Pringle Frost?
Susan Pringle Frost was a pioneer in historic preservation and the founder of the Preservation Society of Charleston in 1920, instrumental in saving several buildings on Rainbow Row from destruction.
Why are the houses on Rainbow Row painted pastel colors?
The pastel colors were chosen to enhance the streetscape and make the area more visually appealing, with the trend beginning in the early 20th century.
What role does the Preservation Society of Charleston play today?
The Preservation Society continues to promote awareness and preservation efforts in Charleston, ensuring historical sites like Rainbow Row are maintained for future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet
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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
