Nestled just steps from downtown Clemson and the campus of Clemson University, Calhoun Corners is more than just a restaurant. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Clemson and a living piece of local history. For more than a century, the building has served the community in different ways, evolving alongside the town itself while preserving its historic character.
Location
Calhoun Corners Restaurant
103 Clemson Street
Clemson, SC 29631
Phone: (864) 654-7490
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
A Building Older Than Clemson University
The historic structure that houses Calhoun Corners was built in 1893 using locally made bricks. That same year, Clemson Agricultural College—now Clemson University—opened its doors. At the time, the area was known as Calhoun, a name the town would keep until 1943.
Throughout its history, the building has served several important roles in the community. It was the original home of Fort Hill Presbyterian Church in the late 1800s and later became a general store operated by Norman Boggs. For decades, local residents gathered here to shop, socialize, and conduct business.
The building became an important community center during a period when Clemson was still a small railroad and farming town.
Saving a Piece of History
By the 1970s, many historic structures around Clemson had disappeared. Fortunately, local preservation efforts helped save this building from being lost.
In 1974, the former Boggs Store was renovated and given new life. After several years of restoration work, Calhoun Corners Restaurant officially opened in 1979. The goal was simple: preserve a significant piece of Clemson history while creating a unique dining destination.
Visitors today can still see many of the building’s historic features, including original brickwork, fireplaces, exposed beams, and other architectural details dating back more than 130 years.
The Fire That Almost Ended It All
Disaster struck in 1997 when a fire heavily damaged the restaurant. Many feared the historic landmark would be lost forever.
Instead, the owners chose to rebuild. Extensive restoration efforts carefully preserved the building’s historic character while repairing the damage. The restaurant reopened in 1998, allowing another generation of Clemson residents and visitors to enjoy one of the city’s most treasured landmarks.
A Clemson Tradition
Today, Calhoun Corners remains one of Clemson’s most recognizable restaurants. Known for steaks, seafood, and fine dining, it has become a favorite destination for Clemson alumni, visiting families, and local residents celebrating special occasions.
What truly sets the restaurant apart, however, is its connection to Clemson’s past. Every brick, fireplace, and timber tells part of the story of a community that grew from a small railroad town into one of South Carolina’s most recognizable college cities.
While many buildings from Clemson’s early days have disappeared, Calhoun Corners remains standing as a reminder of where the town began.
Visiting Calhoun Corners
Whether you’re looking for a memorable dinner, exploring Clemson history, or simply admiring one of the city’s oldest surviving structures, Calhoun Corners offers a unique experience that combines excellent food with a fascinating connection to the past.
More than a restaurant, it is a piece of Clemson history that continues serving the community more than 130 years after its construction.
If you find yourself walking through downtown Clemson, take a moment to look up at the historic building bearing the name Calhoun Corners. You’ll be standing in front of one of the oldest surviving landmarks in the city—a building that has witnessed nearly the entire history of modern Clemson.
