John Mark Verdier House
Beaufort isn’t short on sites of historical importance and you can include John Mark Verdier House—also known as the Lafayette Building—to that list. Managed by the Historic Beaufort Foundation, the building has a storied history since it was built in 1804, including a stint as a headquarters for the Union Army during the Civil War. Today, it is open as a house museum to the public.
The basics
John Mark Verdier was a wealthy plantation owner and merchant who commissioned the building of his grand Beaufort mansion house at the start of the 19th century. While many Southern homes and buildings were destroyed in the course of the Civil War, the house was used as a base for Union troops and, therefore, escaped destruction.
Today, visitors can tour the house and see how Beaufort’s wealthy lived prior to the Civil War and Reconstruction era, plus there are exhibits exploring local area history. You must join a docent-led tour to see the interior, which take place regularly throughout the day.
Things to know before you go
- As a historic home, all rooms may not be accessible to wheelchairs.
- Exhibits and artifacts are on display in rooms on the second floor.
- Repairs or renovations can restrict access to some rooms.
How to get there
John Mark Verdier House is located at 801 Bay Street in Beaufort, on the corner of Scott Street. If driving, paid parking is available on the surrounding streets or in free lots for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. You can walk from most historical sites, hotels, and restaurants in the downtown area.
When to get there
The John Mark Verdier House is open from Monday to Saturday, typically from 10.30am through to 3.30pm. You can only view the interior with a docent-led tour, which run every 30 minutes throughout opening hours. The house is closed every Sunday and on public holidays.
Fill a day touring Beaufort’s historic properties
Beaufort’s small town has a number of historic sites where you can learn about its rich past. Consider adding the Beaufort History Museum, Beaufort National Cemetery, and the four sites of the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park all to your historical itinerary.
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