Welcome to Mugdock Castle on Sullivan’s Island, a place where history intertwines with modern life in fascinating ways. Originally constructed in 1891 as the Chapel of the Holy Cross, this building served as a spiritual haven for the local Episcopal community. It was erected to replace the Grace Church, which was destroyed during the Union’s long siege of Sullivan’s Island and Charleston during the Civil War. The cornerstone of this new chapel was laid in 1895, marking a fresh chapter for the island’s spiritual landscape.
The U.S. government took ownership of the chapel in 1905 during the expansion of Fort Moultrie, transforming it into a Post Chapel before it was finally decommissioned in 1947. After serving as a church for nearly a century, the building was deconsecrated in 1972 and began its life as a private residence.
In 2002, Vince Graham, a notable Charleston designer, purchased the property and embarked on a remarkable restoration journey. His renovation efforts were inspired by his Scottish heritage and a visit to the original Mugdock Castle, a 14th-century stronghold north of Glasgow belonging to his ancestral Graham clan. Graham transformed the chapel into the enchanting Mugdock Castle we see today, complete with a new Romanesque-style addition in 2009, known as the Summer Hall. This blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture offers a unique charm that has attracted visitors and celebrities alike.
Mugdock Castle’s location near Fort Moultrie places it in a historically significant area. Fort Moultrie played a crucial role in American history, defending Charleston Harbor from the British during the Revolutionary War. The island itself has witnessed centuries of history, from its time as a quarantine station for enslaved Africans to its current status as a picturesque residential community.
The castle today stands as a testament to the rich layers of history that Sullivan’s Island holds, evolving from a place of worship into a luxurious private home and event venue. While no kings or presidents have resided here, its walls have hosted a number of high-profile guests seeking the solace and beauty of the Lowcountry.
