Columbia City Hall

National Register Listing

Street Address:

Main and Laurel Sts., Columbia, SC (Richland County)

Alternate Name:

Old United States Courthouse and Post Office

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NRHP Nomination

Record Number:

S10817740028

Description and Narrative:

(Old United States Courthouse and Post Office) The Old Court House and Post Office is one of the most impressive buildings in Columbia commanding a prominent position on upper Main Street. Designed in 1870 by Alfred B. Mullett, it is a superb example of Renaissance Revival architecture. In 1865, Mullett was appointed to the office of United States Supervising Architect where he remained for fifteen years. In this capacity he designed post office buildings for the cities of Boston, New York, Philadelphia and others. He also designed the United States Mint Building in San Francisco and the south wing of the Treasury Department in Washington, D.C. The Columbia Post Office is well designed and executed. The smooth beige Fairfield County granite walls contrast with richly carved decorative elements to create a strong three-dimensional effect. The building has housed various functions of national or city government for nearly a hundred years. Inside its walls have operated the court system, postal business, internal revenue services, and, since 1937, the building has contained offices used by the city government. Aside from the State House, it is the oldest government building in Columbia. Listed in the National Register June 19, 1973.

Period of Significance:

1874;1870

Level of Significance:

National

Area of Significance:

Architecture;Politics/Government

National Register Determination:

listed

Date of Certification:

June 19 1973

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