Washington Square

Historic Significance

Established in 1818, Washington Square holds the distinction of being Charleston's oldest public park. It was initially known as City Hall Park due to its proximity to Charleston's City Hall.

In 1881, to commemorate the centennial of the American victory at Yorktown, the park was renamed in honor of George Washington, with the new name officially displayed over its gates.

Park Layout and Features

This 1.5-acre green space is situated at the corner of Meeting Street and Broad Street in the heart of downtown Charleston.

The park is characterized by its lush greenery, beautifully manicured lawns, and towering live oak trees that provide ample shade, creating a perfect environment for visitors to relax and escape the Southern heat.

Seasonal flowers, including azaleas that bloom in spring and fall, add splashes of color to the landscape.

Monuments and Memorials

At the center of Washington Square stands a 42-foot tall obelisk made of Carolina gray granite, dedicated to the Washington Light Infantry. This memorial, unveiled in 1891, bears inscriptions of significant military battles and names of fallen soldiers from the Civil War.

Other monuments in the park include a statue of George Washington installed in 1999, and a monument to Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard.

Design Elements

The park is enclosed by ornate wrought iron fencing, a characteristic feature of Charleston's historic architecture.

Brick pathways crisscross the park, leading visitors past various points of interest and providing a pleasant walking experience. Washington Square's location near important civic buildings and its historical significance make it a popular stop on walking tours of Charleston.