Magnificent Mepkin Abbey: A Peaceful Garden Escape Steeped in History, SC

On March 9, 2021, my mother and I headed to Moncks Corner, South Carolina, where we spent time exploring the stunning grounds and gardens of Mepkin Abbey. The peaceful setting, beautiful landscaping, and fascinating history made this one of those visits that stays with you long after you leave.

Mepkin Abbey’s documented history dates back to 1681, when 3,000 acres were granted to the three sons of Sir John Colleton, one of the Lords Proprietors of Carolina. The property remained in the family for generations before eventually being sold to Henry Laurens in 1762.

Laurens was both a planter and an influential statesman who played a prominent role in South Carolina’s political history. His connection to Mepkin continued after his death, as his ashes are buried on the property. He eventually left Mepkin to his son, Henry.

The plantation changed hands again in 1916, when J.W. Johnson purchased Mepkin along with several neighboring plantations. He eventually left the property to his daughter.

In 1936, Mepkin was purchased by Henry R. Luce and Clare Boothe Luce. The Luces transformed the property and played an important role in shaping the gardens we enjoy today. In 1949, they donated part of the property to the Roman Catholic Church.

By 1960, Mepkin had become a monastery for Trappist monks of the Cistercian Order, giving the property a new purpose and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere that remains an important part of Mepkin today.

One of my favorite parts of our visit was wandering through the beautiful gardens. The gardens were designed by renowned landscape architect Loutrel Briggs, whom the Luces hired to create the landscape around their home.

As we walked through the grounds, I loved seeing how the formal gardens blended with the surrounding natural landscape. The gardens provide a wonderful place to slow down, appreciate the beauty around you, and reflect on the many layers of history contained within this property.

The gardens were opened to the public in 2007 during designated hours, allowing visitors to experience this remarkable combination of history, nature, architecture, and spirituality.

Visiting Mepkin Abbey with my mother made the experience even more special. It wasn’t simply a garden visit; it was an opportunity to step into a place shaped by centuries of South Carolina history while enjoying a peaceful day together.

If you enjoy historic sites, gardens, architecture, photography, or peaceful places, Mepkin Abbey is definitely worth adding to your South Carolina itinerary.

If You Go

Location: Moncks Corner, South Carolina
Visited: March 9, 2021
Highlights: Historic grounds, gardens, monastery, architecture, and Lowcountry scenery
History: Mepkin’s documented history dates to 1681.
Gardens: Designed by landscape architect Loutrel Briggs and opened to the public in 2007 during designated hours.
Best for: History, gardens, photography, architecture, and peaceful reflection
Photography: The gardens and historic surroundings provide beautiful photography opportunities.
Tip: Check the abbey’s current visiting schedule before making the trip because public access and garden hours can vary.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and your camera.
Respect the setting: Mepkin is an active monastery, so visitors should be mindful of the peaceful, spiritual nature of the property.
Allow time: Don’t rush your visit. Give yourself time to wander through the gardens and appreciate the historic surroundings.
Before you go: Check current admission fees, garden hours, tour availability, and visitor guidelines.