Embrace a rare opportunity to own a piece of history in the heart of downtown Abbeville. This remarkable 1820 home is one of the city's oldest and is known as the Shillito-Townsend House on the National Register of Historic Places. Your journey begins at the white picket fence and a brick walkway crafted from materials original to the home and the historic Burlington Mill. The gardens, dating back to the 1820s, are a true botanical retreat, featuring early 1900s boxwood gardens. Relax on the Southern porch with its traditional “haint blue” ceiling, a perfect spot to watch neighbors stroll to Main Street Coffee or head downtown for a show at the renowned Abbeville Opera House, enjoy festivals on the Court Square, indulge in local fare, or find unique treasures in the surrounding boutiques. Inside, you'll feel the soul of this home, where original wide-plank hardwood floors have absorbed the character of centuries. Preserved with perfection, every detail is a nod to its deep history, from the breathtaking original moldings and fireplaces to the wavy 9-over-9 classic windows. The main level offers a cozy den, a living room, and a dining room, each with a remote gas fireplace, along with a full bathroom, laundry closet, and an owner’s suite with private access to the gardens. The kitchen has been thoughtfully updated to blend vintage charm with modern convenience. The owner preserved the original window garden view while updating the electrical, plumbing, and gas. The space now features a classic Italian-made Hallman gas range, a vintage farmhouse sink with an unlacquered brass fixture, a panel-front Z-Line dishwasher, solid wood cabinetry, and butcher block countertops. Adjacent to the kitchen, a convenient mudroom provides the perfect drop spot after enjoying the gardens. Up the original central staircase are two spacious bedrooms. The first bedroom features a working fireplace and stunning window views overlooking the gardens, while the second retains its original, untouched wallpaper, adding a unique warmth and character. This home offers the best of both worlds: historic charm and peace of mind with recent updates. The owner has meticulously maintained the property with a 4-ton HVAC installed in 2024, a freshly painted interior and exterior, a sealed and repaired roof, and new attic insulation. Whether you're seeking a primary residence, a second home, a unique short-term rental, or a charming space for a service-based business, this home is a living monument where every creaky floorboard tells a story. Protected by a preservation easement held by the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation, its legacy is ensured for generations to come. To tour this historic property, a private showing must be scheduled with the listing agent and your buyer’s agent. Please be a pre-approved buyer or show proof of funds, and view the 360 tour and video tour before scheduling.