South Carolina Governor's Mansion
National Register Listing
Street Address:
800 Richland St., Columbia, SC (Richland County)
NRHP Nomination
Record Number:
S10817740003
Description and Narrative:
Militarily, educationally, and politically significant, the South Carolina Governor’s Mansion has played an integral part in the state’s history since its construction in 1855. The white stucco building with a flat roofline and low parapet was originally built as the officer’s quarters for Arsenal Academy, one of two South Carolina military schools. The academy was forced to close because of the Civil War. The mansion was the only main building of the Arsenal Academy complex to survive when most of the city of Columbia burned down in 1865. In 1868, the spacious house was designated the executive mansion of South Carolina. Most all South Carolina governors since 1868 have resided in the mansion with the exception of two that occupied their own homes within the city of Columbia. A number of national dignitaries, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, have been guests at the mansion. The mansion’s simple architectural style possesses great integrity and the extensive gardens are fine examples of landscape architecture. Much of the landscaping improvement and the addition of the walled, brick-paved courtyard was done during the term of Governor Donald Russell (1963-65). Listed in the National Register June 5, 1970.
Period of Significance:
1868;1855
Level of Significance:
State
Area of Significance:
Politics/Government;Architecture;Art;Education;Landscape Architecture;Literature;Military
National Register Determination:
listed
Date of Certification:
June 5 1970
