The Brown Estate

Charleston's last downtown estate.

Showing the Brown Estate and the surrounding property. The Brown Estate had always been in the way of progress.  As the city expanded and the streets straightened out and now running from east to west through town, the only dog legged streets left were due to the Brown Estate.  Something had to be done.  The city had negotiated with the family for many years to purchase the property so that Quarrier Street and also Laidley Street could continue.  Finally in 1954, a settlement was reached and the Brown Estate would be no more....

Showing where Laidley Street would run through the property.  Look closely to see the old Fruth School on the left.

In 1954, the Capitol Restaurant on Virginia and Alderson collapsed which is why this photo was taken. But in the background is the Brown Estate.   That's  Woodrums on the right.   Once the Brown Estate was removed, Alderson Street would be renamed Laidley St.

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