“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…
For the ninth consecutive year, Charleston has earned the honor of being named No. 1 in Southern Living’s 2025 South’s Best Awards. 🌟 We are truly proud to be part of a city that continues to captivate with its timeless charm, rich history, and unparalleled Southern hospitality! We invite you to experience it for yourself with a stay with us at Emeline.
📍 Steps From Emeline: Part 17
Take a stroll through the @balharbourshops_popup at Ferry Wharf in Mt. Pleasant! With 90+ curated fashion, jewelry, and lifestyle brands, a taste of The Whitman, and a hint of Bal Harbour’s iconic courtyard, it’s the ultimate Lowcountry shopping day experience. Plan your excursion now-April 13th!
For the travelers at heart and explorers by nature—our Collective Premier Two Bedroom Suite offers the perfect home-like comfort. With two private king bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a dining space made for gathering, it’s designed for those who love to roam but appreciate a place to call home. ✨
