Guillebeau House: A Historic French Huguenot Landmark in South Carolina
Nestled within the scenic landscape of Hickory Knob State Resort Park near Willington, South Carolina, the Guillebeau House stands as a rare architectural testament to the early colonial era. Built around 1764, this historic residence offers a glimpse into the lives of the French Huguenots—Protestant refugees who sought religious freedom and new beginnings in the American colonies.
Key Facts
- Location: Hickory Knob State Resort Park, Willington, South Carolina.
- Construction Date: Approximately 1764.
- Architectural Style: Double-pen log building.
- NRHP Status: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since March 7, 1973.
- Original Builder: Andre Guillebeau (1739-1814).
Architectural Design and Features
The Guillebeau House is a prime example of a double-pen log house, a style characterized by two distinct living rooms (or "pens") under a single roof. This specific structure features two front entrances and a single exterior chimney, blending utility with the available materials of the 18th century.
Adding to its colonial charm is a full-width porch covered by a shed roof, which provided essential shade and outdoor living space for the inhabitants. The house occupies a site of approximately 3 acres (1.2 hectares).
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History and Heritage
The home was constructed by Andre Guillebeau (1739-1814) shortly after he arrived at New Bordeaux, a settlement established for French Huguenots. For over a century, the house remained a symbol of the community's resilience and adaptation to the South Carolina wilderness.
To ensure its preservation for future generations, the house was moved to its current location within Hickory Knob State Resort Park around 1983. The original listing on the National Register of Historic Places also included the contributing family cemetery, further linking the physical structure to the lineage of those who built it.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| NRHP Reference Number | 73002136 |
| Coordinates | 33°56′47″N 82°26′36″W |
| Original Settlement | New Bordeaux |
| Current Location | McCormick County, SC |
| Date Added to NRHP | March 7, 1973 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Guillebeau House located?
The house is located in Hickory Knob State Resort Park near Willington in McCormick County, South Carolina.
Who built the Guillebeau House and when?
It was built around 1764 by Andre Guillebeau, a member of the French Huguenot settlement known as New Bordeaux.
What is a double-pen log house?
A double-pen log house is a traditional architectural style consisting of two separate rooms or "pens" joined together under one roof.
When was the house added to the National Register of Historic Places?
The Guillebeau House was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 7, 1973.
Has the house always been in Hickory Knob State Resort Park?
No, the house was moved to the park around 1983 to preserve the historic structure.