The John Ficken House

About

This two-story frame residence was constructed by John Ficken, mayor of Charleston from 1892 to 1895, to be used as rental property. It is a modified single house with a street entrance, Italianate detailing, and stair hall added on the north side, which allows free circulation between the two main rooms. It took the place of a small brick store and a wooden dwelling, both of the antebellum period.

In 1915, Isaac Ball was listed in the City Directory as living here. A member of the Ball family married Mr. Ficken’s daughter and the couple acquired the house. Thus Mr. Ficken’s investment truly served the welfare of his descendants.

Entering the garden through the front gates, you will notice this is not a true Charleston single, as the front door is not on the side with piazza. As you wind to the back of the garden, a host of hydrangeas and boxwood borders greet you. You will feel immediate stress relief in this Zen-like garden.

As you meander towards the second garden room, a lovely gazebo brought all the way from Europe greets you. It fits its setting well, surrounded by agapanthus, hollies and fatsia. Notice the brick wall with gorgeous creeping fig. The owner is fond of saying he lives in a brick walled garden, but does not own them!

Passing the small pond heading towards "the stage," Chinese fan palms and little gem magnolias share the space with fatsia and Holly ferns, making this a perfect spot to settle in and sit a spell.

This garden is a part of the Saturday, May 31 Behind the Garden Gate - Charleston Open Day (Historic District). For more information and tickets about this event, please click here.