The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon is a historic site in Charleston, renowned as one of the three most historic buildings in Colonial America. It played a significant role in American history, serving as the place where delegates to the Continental Congress were elected and where the United States Constitution was ratified in the great hall. In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was read publicly to Charleston citizens. During the British occupation from 1780 to 1782, the cellar was used as a prison, earning it the nickname "The Dungeon." The building also hosted President George Washington during his 1791 southern tour and became a center of economic, social, and cultural activity in South Carolina. Visitors find the site very interesting, especially the dungeon tour, which is both informative and engaging. The museum layout is well-designed, and the tour guides present the history with storytelling skill and humor, making the experience come alive. The site features many artifacts from the Revolutionary War period and includes a unique wooden door built for a TV series. Accessibility is considered, with an elevator available for strollers and wheelchairs. Parking is available nearby, and visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Overall, the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon is a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Charleston’s rich past.
Tour guides are top tier 👌🏼 Thank You! Highly recommend- alot of history and facts shared on the tour.
January 2026
This is an amazing place. I can’t wait to go back! The history of this building is quite extraordinary and to think we walked on the same floors as our founders!!
January 2026
The dungeon tour is very informative and the building has a ton of history. When constructed, it was on the waters edge. Everything from this building to the water is a man made land fill. The rounded wooden door, in the picture, was built by the set crew for the TV series Outer Banks
