Historic Bluffton Getaway!

Welcome to The Joiner House - our luxurious short-term rental property in the heart of Bluffton, South Carolina! A stunning, newly rebuilt period home on this historic property, offering a truly memorable experience for up to 6 guests.

The history of the Joiner House makes it one of the most memorable homes in Bluffton, South Carolina, and was owned by the Joiner family from 1881 until it was recently sold and replicated in 2022 using some of the original fabric of the original house - roof, siding, old brick for porch steps and piers, and metal porch detailing to mention a few.  In fact, Walter Joiner - the great grandson of Joseph Joiner - still lives next door to the property and will always greet renters with a smile and a wave!

Located in close proximity to the vibrant bars and restaurants that define Bluffton's lively atmosphere, this property ensures convenient walking access to the town's bustling entertainment scene. Whether you're seeking a night out on the town or a relaxing evening exploring the local culinary delights, you'll find everything just a stone's throw away from your doorstep.

Step inside this meticulously reconstructed historic home and be captivated by the seamless fusion of timeless charm and modern luxury. The interior exudes an air of sophistication and elegance, boasting exquisite furnishings and tasteful decor throughout. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a space that is both visually stunning and incredibly comfortable.

The home comfortably accommodates six guests, offering ample space for everyone to unwind and enjoy their stay. The bedrooms are thoughtfully designed to provide a peaceful retreat, with plush bedding and serene ambiance that ensures a restful night's sleep. The primary bedroom offers a king bed, closet, television, and a full, en-suite bathroom.  The guest bedroom offers a queen bed as well as a closet and its’ own private bathroom with shower.  There is also a bunk room with a full-sized bed on the bottom and a twin bed on top.  Immediately outside the bunk room is a third full bathroom with a combination bathtub and shower.

The living area is spacious and inviting, featuring cozy seating arrangements and a harmonious blend of contemporary and traditional aesthetics. The owner has included historic and whimsical decorations that take guests back in time while maintaining a modern and upscale setting.

The kitchen is a culinary haven, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample counter space, making it a pleasure to prepare meals for family and friends. The kitchen island has four barstools for casual dining and entertaining, and all the appliances are brand new.  Enjoy your culinary creations at the elegant dining area which seats 6, where you can savor memorable moments together.

After a day of exploring Bluffton's charming streets, retreat to the outdoor porch and relax with a sweet tea or lemonade in the fresh Bluffton air. Or, make use of the propane grill in the backyard and enjoy a family feast in the beautiful lowcountry.

With its prime location, luxurious amenities, and attention to detail, our short-term rental property in downtown Bluffton promises an unforgettable stay. Book your escape today and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming town while indulging in the lap of luxury.

THE HISTORY OF THE JOINER HOUSE:

The Bertram "Bertie" and Bessie Joiner property is a well-known institution in Old Town Bluffton.  The property was once known as the "The Corner Acre Lot" when it was purchased by the patriarch of the Joyner/Joiner family, Joseph Joyner, on May 16th, 1881 from Gabriella (Garth) Kirk Chancellor and her granddaughter, Mary E. Martin.

Gabriella was the widow of Dr. James Wood Kirk who had inherited Hunting Island Plantation from his father, James Brown Kirk when he died in November, 1850.  Her husband, Dr. James W. Kirk died on August 13, 1858 and was buried in Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery on Hilton Head Island.

Given the one-acre lot was part of the Hunting Island Track according to the deed (which was a small portion carved off of the much larger Hunting Island Plantation that abutted the outskirts of Bluffton Village), it is quite possible that Joseph Joyner may have been enslaved at one time on their plantation.  It has been well documented, that many of the newly freed slaves chose to remain on the plantations of their slave owners long after the Civil War Ended

Bertram "Bertie" Louwill Joiner was born on September 29, 1878 in Bluffton, given he stated this was his birth date on his WWI Draft Card - the son of Joseph Joyner and Flora Jenkins.

He married Bessie Simmons (daughter of Frank Simmons and Jane Ford) some time during 1901.  Between 1901 and 1940, the couple had produced 11 children - seven sons (Joseph, Arthur, Bertram, Archie, James, Benjamin, and Paul) and four daughters (Flora, Pauline, Mary E., and Dorothy).  Quite a full house at that time but families tended to be large in order to help run the farms and help out with family expenses.  As soon as you were able, you were put to work, whether it be working on the farm, chasing the chickens, slaughtering the pigs, washing clothes, cooking, or watching after the little ones.

Between 1900 and 1950, Bertram ("Bertie" as he was affectionately known as by family and friends) had held several occupations during his lifetime from farmer, salesman for his own confectionary store (more on that later), carpenter for the National Ship Building Company in Savannah, house carpenter, and towards the later part of his life, caretake for a private family.  On his death certificate, his widow, Bessie, stated his occupation was a carpenter.  Quite an industrious man, and it is only natural to assume that he may have provided the means for his sons to prosper in some of the businesses that he'd been involved in on "the corner lot".

It is well-known throughout the community that his son James manned the BBQ pit that once fronted highway 46 - selling his smoked chicken and pork ribs that most likely came from the chickens and pigs raised on the property.  Many locals recall stopping by the pit as late as the 1970's to purchase some of the infamous BBQ  items prepared by James and other relatives who helped him.  Not only was it a place to purchase food, but it was also a place to sit a spell and catch up on the day's doings.

It is also well-known that James' brother, Arthur, also ran the confectionary store later on (keep in mind that his father built the two-story structure on the corner of his lot fronting highway 46 and Bruin Road as early as April of 1910.) At that time, Arthur was only 11 months old  so we know that it existed by the late 1930's in order for Arthur to work there.  Arthur was not living with his parents when the 1940 census was taken and we know at some point, he moved to Washington, DC where he died on June 29th, 1981.

We do not know when the two-story confectionary store disappeared from the property, but we do know many family members recall seeing a photograph of it hanging in the house at 9 Bruin for many years. The remnants of the old BBQ pit had partially collapsed on itself and the remainder was taken down over safety concerns in April of 2022.

Bertie Joiner died on February 14, 1961 and was laid to rest in Buck Island Cemetery in Bluffton.  His bride of 64 years died four years later on December 15, 1965 and her family laid her to rest next to her husband, and thus ended the legacy of Bertie and Bessie Joiner.

The family continued to own the property at 9 Bruin Road until they decided to sell it to the current owners in March of 2022.