The John Ficken House

About

This two-story frame residence was constructed in 1906-07 by John Ficken, mayor of Charleston from 1892 to 1895, to be used as rental property. It is a modified single house with a street entrance, Italianate detailing, and stair hall on the north side, which allows free circulation between the two main rooms.

Dr. Eugene Johnson, a talented local landscape designer post medical career, created this series of garden rooms for personal enjoyment and entertaining of recent owners. One enters the garden through the front gate and proceeds to the drive to the south where you are greeted with a bluestone path edged with boxwood behind which are oak leaf hydrangeas, sasanquas, ligustrums, and seasonal plantings.

In the distance large olive trees beckon you to explore the first garden room. This formal four quadrant boxwood edged parterre is anchored with olive trees and in the center boxwood surrounds a large Italian terra cotta jar.

The second garden room, with its bluestone carpet, gurgling fountain, and brick walls covered by creeping fig, provides an expansive space for entertaining, including a three step stage-like area. Nestled among plantings of agapanthus, Chinese fan palms, fatsia, sasanqua, and Farfugium is a delicate gazebo imported from Europe. A lovely garden in which to relax, dine or entertain!

2026 Open Day Date: Saturday, May 30

Open Day Hours: 10–3

A la carte (invididual) tickets to this garden can be purchased below. To purchase tickets to all six participating gardens, please visit the Charleston Historic District Open Day page.

Please note: Garden Conservancy membership credits cannot be used for this event.