The marker reads "Property granted to Sir Francis Salters, originally included Nos. 51 and 51-1/2 South Battery. In 1760, Col. James English built this single English style house with kitchen and servants building at 51-1/2. Old sea wall runs across rear of property. Owners represent sixth generation of direct descent to occupy this house, and a portrait of the builder hangs in drawing room." --placed by the Preservation Society of Charleston, 2006 The small object above the windows is an iron fire mark, used in the U.S. in the 18th and 19th Centuries so that the fire brigade(s) would know that the building was insured against fire damage and by which company. An interesting article on fire marks can be found here: www.oldandsold.com/articles02/article1064.shtml Genuine fire marks are now collector's items, and reproductions are made. I don't know how authentic this one is, but it isn't a Charleston mark. This one was issued by the Fire Association of Philadelphia.