Homes with History: Pre-Civil War Property in Beaufort, S.C.

Welcome to Beaufort, S.C., the second oldest city in the state behind Charleston. Founded by the British in 1711, Beaufort is home to magnolia trees, Spanish moss and antebellum architecture, like the Robert Smalls House pictured here.

The property was named for Robert Smalls, an important figure to both Beaufort and American history as a whole. To put it briefly, Smalls was an enslaved African American man who commandeered a Confederate ship and delivered its passengers to freedom during the Civil War. Smalls later returned to Beaufort, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and bought this house, which had been owned by his slave master. It's now a National Historic Landmark.

Though constructed in 1843, this historic home on Beaufort's 511 Prince Street looks brand new thanks to impeccable preservation. Once they enter through the iron gate, visitors can take a seat on the bench and enjoy the view up close.

From this side of the garden, guests can see that the home is two-stories tall and features a wood frame structure, gable roof and two porches. Palmetto trees flank the exterior for a true South Carolina look -- all that's missing is the classic crescent moon.

Of course, a home this charming comes with a formal garden. Trimmed hedges and shrubs outline various sitting areas, while brick walkways invite visitors to take a stroll and appreciate the antebellum architecture.