History
A Piece of History. Rocky Retreat was built in 1849 on a 310-acre farm for the Boone family of Charleston, who were seeking a more healthful climate and lifestyle. The family named their farm “Rocky Retreat” because of the granite outcroppings that crisscross the property. In the mid-1990s, long-time Anderson County resident Jim Ligon restored the house, barn and remaining six acres with loving care and a deep respect for history. The restoration took Jim more than five years and countless hours. The results of his work are stunning, even more so when you compare before and after photos.
Before
After
The Peace of the Past. Rocky Retreat is a classic example of an upcountry farm house. It has a large central hallway that allows the breeze to blow through on pleasant days, A spacious front porch, screened side porch, and back deck overlook historic farm buildings, wooded vistas, and native flora. Surrounded by trees and set back from a country road, Rocky Retreat is a peaceful place where you can rest and relax, yet still have ready access to highways and local hot spots.
Rain on the Tin Roof. There’s nothing quite like an overnight stay at Rocky Retreat. The two spacious upstairs bedrooms have private baths and clawfoot tubs (for long soaks or quick showers), working gas log fireplaces, and tall windows on three sides. If you’re lucky enough to stay here when there’s an evening storm, you’ll enjoy falling asleep to the sound of rain on the tin roof. Downstairs you’ll find a two-bedroom suite with connecting bath at the front of the house and, toward the back, another bedroom with a private bath.
Heart Pine and Hearty Breakfasts. All rooms have the original heart-pine walls and are furnished with an eclectic mix of antiques chosen to make you feel right at home. Breakfast is served in the arts-and-crafts’ style dining room. The front hall, parlor and porch are always available for reading or quiet conversation. Exercise and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Carolina woodlands on the 0.4 mile walking trail the circles the homestead.
Same Family; New Generation. In 2021, Jim Ligon’s daughter Polly and her husband Wright assumed ownership of Rocky Retreat and Boone-Douthit House. Working closely with her dad and siblings, Polly and Wright intend to continue the legacy of this historic property with gratitude, love and imagination.