Colvin-Fant-Durham Farm Complex
The Colvin–Fant–Durham Farm Complex, also known as the Nicholas Colvin House and Durham House, is a historic farmstead situated near Chester, South Carolina. Recognized for its architectural and agricultural significance, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 30, 1992.
Location: Eastern side of South Carolina Highway 22, approximately 1 mile west of its junction with South Carolina Highway 16, near Chester, SC .
Construction Dates: Circa 1835 (main house), with additions around 1890.
- Architectural Style: A blend of Federal and Greek Revival styles, reflecting a transitional vernacular farmhouse design.
- Property Size: Approximately 19.5 acres.
- The farm complex comprises six contributing buildings:
- Main House: A two-story, hall-and-parlor plan frame structure exhibiting transitional Federal and early Greek Revival detailing.
- Dining Room and Kitchen Ell: A one-story frame addition from the late 19th century.
- Outbuildings:
- Smokehouse
- Well house/power house
- Mule barn
- Tenant house
- Log cottonseed house
These structures collectively offer a comprehensive view of a 19th-century Southern farmstead, illustrating the architectural and functional aspects of rural life during that period .
The Colvin–Fant–Durham Farm Complex is significant for its association with the agricultural development of Chester County and as an exemplar of rural Southern architecture. The main house’s design reflects the evolution of architectural styles, transitioning from Federal to Greek Revival influences, indicative of the region’s adaptation to broader stylistic trends. The preservation of multiple original outbuildings enhances the property’s historical value, providing insight into the operational aspects of a working farm in the 19th century.
As a privately owned property, the Colvin–Fant–Durham Farm Complex is not open to the public. However, its recognition on the National Register underscores its importance to South Carolina’s cultural and historical heritage.