Frederick Nance House
The Frederick Nance House, also known as Oak Grove, is a historic plantation residence located at 921 Jessica Avenue in Newberry, South Carolina. Constructed between 1822 and 1825, it was the home of Frederick Nance, a prominent local politician who served as Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina from 1808 to 1810. The house is a significant example of antebellum Classical Revival architecture and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014 .
The house is a two-story brick structure featuring a four-over-four central hall plan, which is a rare design in Newberry County. A notable feature is its full-height, monumental temple portico with fluted Doric columns and a pediment, dominating the façade. The brick façade is laid in a running bond pattern, with brick quoins at the corners. Remnants of penciling—a technique to make mortar joints appear straight and regular—are still visible on the exterior walls, a characteristic associated with designs by architect Robert Mills, who is believed to have designed the house .
Frederick Nance was one of the first settlers in Newberry and acquired a significant amount of property in the area. In addition to his political career, he was a successful businessman and planter. The house reflects his status and the architectural styles of the antebellum period. The property also includes a surviving slave quarters, which is a rare feature in the region .
While the Frederick Nance House is a private residence and not open to the public, it is a significant landmark in Newberry. A historical marker is located at the property, providing information about its history and significance.