“College Corner” is now open.  This new facility located at 327 King Street will be a retail shop for selected College of Charleston merchandise and also provide valuable information about the College of Charleston.

imageThe location at King and George is strategically important as part of the primary gateway to the College’s campus for visitors, alumni, students and prospects especially pedestrians originating in the City’s residential district.

“The new ‘College Corner’ is a building for all College of Charleston members –– past, present, and future,” said College of Charleston President Glenn McConnell.  “The store will enable members of the College family to showcase their Cougar pride and significantly elevate the College’s presence and visibility on King Street. It also will serve as a gateway to the College for tourists and community members shopping at or walking along one of the top retail districts in America.”

John D. Meyer, a prosperous German grocer, constructed the building in 1855. The façade was remodeled in the late 19th century.

image[2]The building was leased to Barton’s Candy, Cards and Gifts Shop from 1960 through 2005.  The Silver Puffin took over the shop and ran it until College took over the building in early 2013 in order to restore the shop as a gift shop.

The storefront recalls elements of the original building with cast iron pilasters and wood shop windows.  Architectural design is by Whitney Powers of Studio A design and the store has been beautifully restored by NBM Construction.

The wrought-iron gates on and about the campus that decorate the store are the pen-and-ink drawings of award winning, local artist Nikki Harris Williams, Class of 1966.  Ms. Williams graciously granted her permission to incorporate her beautiful work into displays inside the new “College Corner”.

The “College Corner” will be open 7 days a week and will follow King Street retail hours.