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2024 Select Registry Award Finalist: Best Craft Lodging Property Southeast

Our Legacy

A Captivating Story Spanning Over Two Centuries

1790-1810
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1790-1810

The original structure of Cuthbert House is built for James Hazard Cuthbert near Wire’s Pond in Beaufort, three blocks back from where it sits today. Legend has it that in 1810 when John Alexander Cuthbert II marries Mary Anne Williamson, he splits the house in two sections and has it moved to its waterfront home at 1203 Bay Street as a gift for his new bride, to capture the cool summer breezes. According to some records, the division of the house was at one point evident where space had to be left so that the fireplaces could be reconstructed.

1861-1863
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1861-1863

The remaining Cuthbert family members flee Beaufort, South Carolina during the early days of the Civil War. Cuthbert House was confiscated, occupied and used as General Rufus Saxton’s command headquarters for the following two years. Union soldier Joel Dudley from Brighton, Massachusetts etches his name, hometown and birthdate into the black marble fireplace of what is now known as the Eastlake Suite. Additional names identified are of Isaac Kent and J.I. Cole. In 1863, the house, recorded as Block 99 Lot A, is taken by the United States Treasury Department for Nonpayment of Union War Taxes of $56.40 and valued at $7,500. General Rufus Saxton purchases Cuthbert House for $1,000 at auction.

1864-1865
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1864-1865

General Rufus Saxton resides at Cuthbert House during the Civil War, receiving a visit from General Sherman in 1865. From Major Henry Hitchcock’s 1927 book “Marching With Sherman”: “The General came to Beaufort on the 23rd of January and stayed one day quartering at General Saxton’s. The latter owns the house he lives in – a large fine double house on Bay Street fronting the sea.” 

1882-1889
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1882-1889

General Rufus Saxton sells Cuthbert House to Colonel Duncan Wilson on March 25th, 1865 following the end of the Civil War, but the sale of the property is not recorded in the city of Beaufort until April 4, 1882. Wilson was one of Saxton’s top men, responsible for building barracks, a large hospital in Hilton Head, and was instrumental in the Port Royal railroad. Colonel Duncan Wilson expands Cuthbert House with the addition of rooms, bay windows, Victorian trim and porches on either side of central portico.

1968–1989
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1968–1989

From the late 1800s to the mid 1900s, Cuthbert House changed hands several times, serving as both a private residence and partially converted into apartments. In 1972, it was thankfully spared from demolition and rightfully added to the National Register of Historic Places, solidifying its place as a cherished landmark in one of the south’s most storied cities.

1991-2023
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1991-2023

Since the early 90’s, Cuthbert House has been open as a historic inn, having been in the care of wonderful owners and innkeepers over the last 20+ years. Coastal Living describes this setting perfectly: “Fronting Beaufort Bay, the 1790 Cuthbert House Inn easily transports guests to the gentility and grandeur of the antebellum South. You can almost hear the rustle of a hoop skirt against a doorframe or the scuffing of Union soldier’s boots on the hardwood stairs.”

Our Visionary Leaders

Meet the leadership team at Cuthbert House, whose passion, expertise, and charm create unforgettable guest experiences.

Ownership

Chris & Suzanne Ramm

Our Culinary Program

Experience culinary excellence curated at Cuthbert House. From our sumptuous daily breakfast to delights throughout the day, each moment is something to savor.

A Bayside Breakfast

Hosted each morning in our Dining Room, enjoy a delightful experience with bottomless mimosas, French Press coffee, and tea, as well as sweet and savory breakfast options.

Afternoon Reception

As the Cuthbert family once welcomed visitors for the social season, revisit the revelry at our daily reception featuring complimentary wine and enticing hors d’ouevres.

LIBATIONS

Immerse yourself in the timeless ambiance of one of our lounges, flickering fireplaces, or historic front porches – drink in hand, you can relive the heritage of a bygone era.

ALL-DAY REFRESHMENTS

Our complimentary refreshment station offers an array of items including coffee, beer, wine, tea, juice, infused water, and a tempting display of pastries and packaged snacks.

Concierge Service

Trust our team to curate your stay from start to finish, from pre-arrival calls for personal touches to seamless reservations, city explorations, and private transportation.

Library Nightcap

Indulge in a delectable dessert over a glass of port wine while you unwind in the cozy lounge of our Library – it’s the perfect ending to every evening at Cuthbert House.

Additional complimentary amenities

  1. Hunting Island Beach Pass
  2. Beach Chairs & Towels
  3. Courtyard Firepit
  4. S’mores Kits
  5. Turndown Service
  6. Bicycles

A Gallery of Graceful Moments

Elevate Your Stay

Our Concierge team can curate exceptional enhancements upon arrival including a bottle of wine or champagne, flowers, locally made chocolates, charcuterie, and personalized touches.

CONTACT US

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Owners

CHRIS & SUZANNE RAMM

Taylor Development Group, managed by Chris and Suzanne Taylor Ramm, purchased the Cuthbert House in August of 2023. They embody a legacy and passion that span three generations within their family business and are committed to preserving the historic charm of the inn. Their passion shines through in their consistent presence on-site and dedication to ensuring that the spirit of hospitality is woven into every detail of this Beaufort icon.