Circa 1760. One of the most classic of Southern cities, Charleston's grace and beauty can be experienced at one of its most historic and gracious inns. At the Charleston Governor's House, civility and romance are a tradition. Declared a National Historic Landmark, the former Governor's Mansion was built in 1760 and was the home of Edward Rutledge, one of South Carolina's representatives to the First Continental Congress in 1775 and the youngest person to ratify and sign the Declaration of Independence a year later. After his capture and imprisonment by the British, he became governor of South Carolina and lived in this stately home. Today, one of the finest suites in the inn bears his name. Antique Italian chandeliers look down upon a king-size, arched-canopy bed, and a fireplace warms an elegant sitting area. When the weather is fine, a private porch makes a good spot for conversation. Three other suites also feature fireplaces, canopy beds, marble whirlpools and showers, while four standard rooms have combinations of 12-foot-high ceilings, canopy beds, sitting areas and porches. Hardwood floors extend throughout the inn. Homemade Charleston muffins and fresh local fruit are presented each morning in the dining room or on the spacious double veranda -- also the locations for the inn's Lowcountry afternoon tea and evening sherry. Within walking distance of the inn are the other magnificent homes and gardens of the historic district of Charleston, the Battery and the Old Market.