Columbia: A Glimpse Into History at the Governor’s Mansion
The charming city of Columbia, where history and beauty intertwine, is buzzing with excitement as holiday festivities approach. One of the must-visit spots for locals and visitors alike is the stunning South Carolina Governor’s Mansion.
Picture this: Plentiful sunshine, a high of 67°F, and light winds softly blowing from the southwest—what a perfect day to take in the sights and sounds of this historic 9-acre complex that exudes charm.
A Peek into the Past
Standing proudly on Arsenal Hill, the Governor’s Mansion dates back to the 19th century. Originally constructed for the Arsenal Academy, it survived a fire during the Union occupation in 1865, while many other buildings in the complex weren’t so lucky. This classical-style mansion was appropriated as the state’s executive residence in 1868 and now boasts 15 stately rooms that tell the story of South Carolina’s rich history.
Come One, Come All!
For those looking to take a tour, you’re in luck! Most of the first floor is open for public viewing from Tuesday to Thursday, but you’ll need to book a reservation ahead of time. Last week, I had the chance to visit this magnificent place with my friend Michael Budd. Arriving at the appointed time, we were greeted warmly by a guard who conducted our security check before leading us past a delightful fountain to the main entrance.
Upon entering, we were invited to wait in a large drawing room adorned with beautiful artwork and historical furniture, giving us a taste of the regal life that has unfolded in this mansion over the years. And whaddaya know? Just as we settled in, none other than Governor Henry McMaster himself made a fleeting appearance as he headed out. Talk about a serendipitous moment!
A Festive Gathering Just Around the Corner
If you’re searching for an opportunity to mingle with dignitaries and enjoy some festive cheer, mark your calendars! The annual Christmas open house is scheduled for December 9 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Governor himself will be on hand, welcoming guests and providing refreshments while sprinkling some holiday joy around the mansion.
Touring with a Twist
Luckily for us, we had the delightful Susan Aude, a former WIS-TV news anchor, as our guide. Her enthusiasm for the mansion was infectious! She led us on a fascinating journey through the public spaces on the first floor. A fun tidbit: the first room we visited hosted the wedding of Strom Thurmond back in 1947!
Interestingly, after serving as governor, Thurmond resided in Aiken, where his late wife is buried. The connections between our state’s history and this beautiful mansion are numerous and heartwarming.
It’s all in the Details
As we roamed through the drawing room, we stumbled upon a stunning Steinway grand piano dating back to the Byrnes administration. Rumor has it, the legendary Leonard Bernstein even played this exquisite instrument during his visits—a true testament to the mansion’s rich cultural heritage!
Today, Governor McMaster has made a point to enhance the mansion’s gardens, planting Palmetto palms, fruit trees, and planting an astounding 5,000 daffodils! It’s clear that each resident leaves their mark, enriching the history of this beloved place.
Art and Literature Unite
As a book lover myself, I was particularly enchanted by the beautifully appointed library featuring built-in bookcases by Columbia’s own Michael Craig. I could easily spend hours admiring the gubernatorial portraits that line the walls—faces from both sides of the political spectrum are there watching over us. Each room tells a story, whether it’s through the rich colors of the decor or the history behind the artwork hanging gracefully.
Plan Your Adventure
If you’re eager to learn more, don’t hesitate to schedule your tour by visiting scgovernorsmansion.org or dropping a line to Nancy Bunch at nbunch@governor.sc.gov to secure your spot.
Whether you’re new to Columbia or a lifelong resident, a tour of the Governor’s Mansion is bound to be a memorable experience filled with history, beauty, and a dash of holiday spirit. So grab your family and friends, and get ready for an adventure at this iconic landmark!
