1785
1785
The name, 'The Vendue', comes from the vendue masters (or auctioneers) who worked in the area. French merchants utilized The Vendue, originally known as Prioleau's Wharf, to conduct trade. Prioleau's Wharf quickly became a favorite until the trade business halted at the onset of the Civil War.
1865
1865
During the Civil War, Prioleau's Wharf became a warehouse for blockade-runners. After the war, the building evolved into a warehouse for the fishing industry. Weary sailors looking for a place to stay encouraged the warehouse to add its first accommodations.
1872
1872
Rebuilt in 1872 by Ms. Ann Ross, 19 Vendue's granite post and lintel system from 1839 was preserved. In addition, several of the rooms in 26 Vendue still feature historical components of the original warehouses, such as exposed wood beams and original Charleston brick.
1973
1973
The property lies within Charleston's historic French Quarter Art District. Most of the buildings in the area were listed in the National Register of Historic Places prior to 1973 when a collection of mostly 19th century warehouses were saved from demolition by the “Save Charleston Foundation,” a group of local citizens who conducted a national campaign to raise money for that specific purpose. The irreplaceable warehouses on Queen Street, State Street and Lodge Alley were then conveyed to developers who rehabilitated the properties into valuable commercial businesses.
2012
2012
Avocet Hospitality acquired The Vendue Inn (19 & 24 Vendue).
2013
2013
Avocet Hospitality acquired The Anchorage Inn at 26 Vendue, later to be restructured and combined with 24 Vendue. The Vendue Inn closed its doors on November 11th, 2013 to begin a $5.5 million renovation.
2014
2014
19 and 26 Vendue re-opened in 2014 as "The Vendue," Charleston's first boutique hotel dedicated to the arts, in all forms. The Vendue still carries the charm and structure of the original properties.
Now
Now
Ever-seeking to evolve and progress, The Vendue renovated its 19 location in 2022 featuring a modern aesthetic and embracing its playfully sophisticated ambiance. 26 Vendue still holds true to its classical and timeless roots… but who knows what's next?
Worth Noting
Keep exploring. There’s more to discover.
Featured at The Vendue – Charleston’s Art Hotel.
