Revitalizing Fort Moultrie's Historic Theater on Sullivan's Island

A Historic Landmark Faces a New Future

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. – A long-abandoned stable on Sullivan’s Island may soon see a revival if a new development plan is approved. The Sullivan’s Island Design Review Board is set to evaluate the final designs for a project that involves the nearly century-old Fort Moultrie Post Theater. This landmark has a rich history that dates back to its origins as a military theater. It once hosted movie showings, war bond drives, and various ceremonies. After the fort was decommissioned in 1947, it became an island asset and later operated as a private theater with seating for 406 people.

Over time, the building transitioned into a warehouse and has remained vacant for decades. However, a new vision aims to restore the structure while preserving its historical significance. Anthony Cissell, principal of Cissell Design Studio and the architect behind the project, hopes to transform the site into a single-family home. His goal is to ensure that the building maintains its identity as a landmark that Sullivan’s Island has known for nearly 100 years.

Despite its historical value, the aging structure faces modern challenges. Cissell pointed out that if a flood were to occur, it could cause significant damage to the historic woodwork and interior spaces. To mitigate this risk, the plan includes raising the interior of the building by three feet above the surrounding grade. This adjustment will help protect the original features while making the space more resilient to environmental threats.

A key element of the design is the preservation of the building’s original elements. Cissell explained that historic wood trim around door openings and other details will be carefully cataloged, moved, and reused in the new design wherever possible. The section closest to the former stage will remain open, serving as the main centerpiece of the living area. The entrance to this grand space will also be preserved, with the original theater doors from the 1930s staying in place—though they will be raised to prevent flooding.

Cissell is considering applying for the historic tax credit program, which would involve input from the state Historic Preservation Office and the National Park Service. Brittany Lavelle Tulla, owner of BVL Historic Preservation Research, emphasized the importance of this process. She noted that to qualify for the tax credits, both the exterior and interior of the building must be sensitively restored. For Tulla, projects like this are vital to the community. She expressed hope that the building will undergo the necessary restoration to maintain its historical and architectural significance.

“Sometimes we see buildings get demolished, and it’s only after they’re gone that we realize their impact on the community,” Tulla said. “The exterior character of this building has a lot of weight. It acts as an anchor on Sullivan’s Island, testifying to its military background and contributing to the unique identity of the area.”

Cissell believes that previous designs for the project may have overlooked the building’s unique character. He emphasized the importance of listening to the structure itself to determine what it should become in the next hundred years. “We’ve taken a step back, listened to the building, and redefined the goals for this project,” he said.

A historic marker outside the building notes that it was completed in May 1928 at a cost of $19,500. Cissell and his team plan to collaborate with Sullivan’s Island officials to ensure that some form of historical marker remains on the property after the project is complete.

The Sullivan’s Island Design Review Board will consider the final approval of the project during its meeting on Wednesday. Detailed design plans can be reviewed in the board’s agenda. If approved, this initiative could mark a new chapter for a historic structure that has stood as a symbol of the island’s past.