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About Us
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Rock Hill Boutique Hotels

HISTORY REIMAGINED

Set within a century-old Beaux Arts landmark, The Lantern is layered with coffered ceilings, wrought iron, velvet lounges, and Southern textures, reviving Rock Hill’s architectural legacy through spirited design, sophisticated vibes, and community-driven intention.

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PURPOSE IN PARTNERSHIP

Through our partnership with Winthrop University’s LIFE program, The Lantern offers immersive career training and mentorship for individuals with disabilities—ensuring our mission is more than a message; it’s a movement.

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Legacy in Layers

MEET US DOWNSTAIRS

Behind a discreet entrance, our members-only speakeasy invites guests and locals  into a world of private tastings, curated menus, and live music events.

Legacy in Layers

ELEVATED
SOUTHERN

Helmed by Chef Jim Noble, our culinary program brings together open-fire techniques, Southern roots, and a modern edge—welcoming travelers and locals to the table.

Legacy in Layers

HOSPITALITY WITH PURPOSE

Our mission is woven into every detail. As a hotel designed to employ adults of all abilities, we reimagine luxury as a force that uplifts individuals and strengthens communities.

Legacy in Layers

ARCHITECTURE
HOLDS MEMORY

With original ironwork, arched windows, and coffered ceilings, our reimagined landmark preserves the past with intention—offering spaces that tell a story.

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From Foundation to Future THE ANDREW JACKSON HOTEL: BUILT FOR A GROWING CITY

Constructed in 1926–1927, the Andrew Jackson Hotel rose as a symbol of Rock Hill’s ambition and growth in the early 20th century. Designed by noted architect Charles Coker Wilson, the six-story building featured striking limestone arches, ornate pilasters, and a grand lobby that reflected Beaux-Arts elegance. Built through a community-funded effort, the hotel was envisioned as Rock Hill’s premier destination for travelers, dignitaries, and civic life. Its architecture and scale permanently shaped the downtown skyline.

From Foundation to Future A THRIVING SOCIAL AND CULTURAL LANDMARK

For decades, the Andrew Jackson Hotel served as the heart of downtown Rock Hill. Its lobby, ballroom, and restaurant hosted weddings, dances, civic meetings, and visiting guests, becoming a gathering place for the entire community. The hotel even played a unique role in American music history, briefly serving as a recording site for early country, bluegrass, and gospel artists. More than a place to stay, it was where Rock Hill came together.

From Foundation to Future THE GUARDIAN BUILDING: PRESERVATION THROUGH ADAPTATION

In the early 1970s, following the hotel’s closure, the property was purchased by Guardian Fidelity Group, marking a new chapter for the historic structure. Renamed the Guardian Building, it was thoughtfully adapted for office and commercial use, preserving its exterior character and much of its architectural detail. This transition ensured the building remained active and relevant while safeguarding an important piece of Rock Hill’s heritage. For decades, it stood as a landmark of continuity and preservation downtown.

From Foundation to Future A RETURN TO HOSPITALITY WITH PURPOSE

Today, the building is being thoughtfully restored as The Lantern Hotel, returning 223 East Main Street to its original role as a place of welcome. Slated to open in 2026, the Lantern blends historic architecture with modern boutique hospitality, including a restaurant, speakeasy, and event spaces. At its core is a mission of inclusion—creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The Lantern honors the past while shining forward as a hotel with heart, purpose, and community impact.