Sunny Days in Columbia: Visitors Embrace the Historic Elegance of the Governor's Mansion
Columbia, SC – Are you ready to bask in the sunshine and explore a piece of history? The weather forecast is looking delightful today with sunshine and a few afternoon clouds. Expect a cozy high of 71°F and gentle WSW winds between 10 to 15 mph. Perfect for a day out, don’t you think?
As the sun begins to dip this evening, temperatures will cool down to a pleasant 54°F with a slight chance of a rain shower after midnight. So, if you’re planning a romantic evening stroll or a quick outing, just be prepared for a potential drizzle. The comfy winds from the SW at 5 to 10 mph should keep things feeling fresh!
Now, speaking of outings, have you ever thought about visiting the South Carolina Governor’s Mansion? Perched atop Arsenal Hill, this stunning 9-acre complex is home to three historic buildings, but the most notable is undoubtedly the mansion itself. Initially constructed as faculty quarters for the Arsenal Academy, it has withstood the test of time, even surviving a devastating fire in 1865 during the turbulent days of war.
In fact, the mansion has been the state’s executive home since 1868 and boasts a classic architectural style covered in handsome white stucco. With 15 inviting rooms, it’s a treasure trove of history that many residents have yet to experience. Most of the first floor is open to the public from Tuesday to Thursday, of course with a reservation—because who doesn’t love a little exclusivity?
Just last week, I had the wonderful opportunity to tour the mansion alongside my friend Michael Budd. Our journey began when a friendly uniformed officer, standing guard, welcomed us onto the meticulously maintained grounds. After a brief security screening, we were escorted through a picturesque drive, circling around a lovely central fountain before arriving at the grand entrance.
As we stepped in, we were greeted by another cheerful guard who ushered us into the spacious drawing room—just to the right of the impressive entrance hall—where we waited for our knowledgeable guide to arrive. To our delight, none other than Gov. Henry McMaster made an unexpected appearance as he descended from his private quarters. What a cool surprise that was!
And here’s something exciting! If you’re looking for a chance to meet the Governor yourself, mark your calendars for the Christmas open house on December 9 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This special event promises to be warmly welcoming, with refreshments and the chance for folks to mingle with the Governor himself.
During our tour, we were guided by the wonderful Susan Aude, a former news anchor with a knack for livening up the mansion’s history. She shared fascinating stories, including details about the drawing room where Strom Thurmond held his first wedding in 1947. The room has history just seeping from its walls!
The drawing room is filled with stunning furniture and lovely decor, much of which has been generously donated over the years. One standout? A magnificent Steinway grand piano from the administration of Gov. James F. Byrnes—rumored to have been played by the legendary Leonard Bernstein himself. Talk about a true musical legacy!
Each room offers something unique that captivates every visitor. As we strolled through the mansion, especially cherished by long-time South Carolinians were the portraits of past governors lining the walls—each telling the story of our beloved state.
From Mark Sanford to Nikki Haley and Richard Riley, the faces of our political history truly surround you. But my personal favorite? Without a doubt, the captivating portrait of Robert Hayne, painted by the remarkable Samuel F.B. Morse. With his Byronic locks, he effortlessly embodies the romantic spirit of the age!
If you’re ready to take a step into South Carolina’s rich history, consider booking a tour of this enchanting mansion! To plan your visit, simply head over to scgovernorsmansion.org or drop an email to Nancy Bunch at nbunch@governor.sc.gov. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the Governor’s Mansion is a must-see gem that everyone should experience
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