“After the sea, this is home.” —Emeline
For well over a century, 181 Church Street has witnessed many incarnations, from a burgeoning grocery business to a provisions company that catered to local hotels, restaurants, and ships readying to set sail. It even lived a life as a bank before Emeline landed on South Carolina’s shores with little more than a monogrammed steamer trunk and the big, audacious dream of setting down roots in America.
Growing up a ship captain’s daughter, she loved the open ocean and opening her heart and mind to new people and cultures.
But captivated by Charleston and all of its charms, Emeline decided to become her own port, of sorts, and opened this very hotel, using all of the grace, grit and determination she learned at sea. We’ve been hosting travelers here from far and wide ever since.
It was Emeline’s aim to create a home away from home for guests—an outpost of lighthearted luxury without a hint of pretense. A place where people felt infinitely welcome and utterly engaged. You can’t help but feel her presence here—at once curious and gracious, well-traveled and welcoming, adventuresome and unexpected.
In the spirit of ingenuity and reinvention—our time-honored legacy at 181 Church Street—let us be your threshold to historic downtown Charleston, as well as a portal into a storied past. We hope you’ll stay a while, but as long or short as your schedule allows, we are at your service.
On behalf of our host and muse, and our entire staff—the warmest of welcomes to all that is Emeline.
One last thing: Never let the truth stand in the way of a good story.
Emeline’s unquenchable curiosity, adventurous spirit, passion for hosting and love of a tall tale can be felt throughout every inch of 181 Church Street. We invite you to step into her story.
The Archive
Emeline’s Archive celebrates the Charleston Renaissance, a time in history beginning in 1920 through World War II that fostered the city’s cultural renewal.
In the curated collection you will find art, books, and inspired imagery from artists, writers, architects, and historical preservationists depicted life in Charleston and the Lowcountry. And, if you’re lucky, you just might find a few artifacts that belonged to Emeline herself…
Pack your bags, unwind in cozy suites, and celebrate 20 years of flavor, community, and creativity at @chswineandfood, March 4–8, 2026 🍷
Experience five unforgettable days honoring two decades of culinary excellence, with the return of the Culinary Village to The Citadel’s Johnson Hagood Stadium, incredible talent, and a mix of sips, bites, and sounds. And at the end of the evenings, your home base will be waiting.
Tickets are on sale now — visit our 🔗 in bio!
Charleston, we’re honored and it’s your turn to weigh in ✨ We’re finalists in the Charleston City Paper Best of Charleston Awards, celebrating the places that shape how the city eats, drinks, and stays. Visit the link in our bio to vote until March 8!
🗳️ Emeline
Best Hotel
🗳️ Frannie & The Fox
Best Downtown Brunch
Best Gourmet Pizza
Best Bloody Mary
Best Upscale Bar
🗳️ Clerks Coffee Co.
Best Coffee Shop
