Grounds of the Robert Mills House & Park

If you’re looking for a truly unique site for your next special event, walk onto the grounds of the Robert Mills House and Park. Here your guests can stroll past a mansion designed by Robert Mills, a historically prominent architect who designed the Washington Monument and other federal structures.

Ainsley Hall, a wealthy Columbia merchant, engaged Mills to plan this Columbia townhouse in 1823. It was quite a coup for Hall, as Mills designed few private residences. The house reflects the architect's preference for the Classical Revival style, with a large portico dominating the north facade. Like many of his public buildings, the Mills House is a brick structure with a symmetrical exterior and interior.

Unfortunately, Hall died before the home was completed and the mansion was never used as a private residence. It eventually was sold to the Presbyterian Synod of South Carolina and Georgia, which transformed the home into the Columbia Theological Seminary. Later, Winthrop College was founded in the property’s former carriage house- turned-chapel before moving to Rock Hill. Columbia Bible College occupied the structure for thirty years before it was threatened with demolition in 1960.

The first home championed for preservation by the Historic Columbia Foundation, the Robert Mills House is one of the few private residences designed by Mills still in existence. With its lush landscaping and ornate gardens set against one of the nation’s finest architectural landmarks, the Robert Mills House and Park provides a picturesque setting for your next special event.

Please Note: Only gardens and grounds available for rentals.

Rates: Available upon request.

Map of Mills House & Park

For more information, please call 803.252.7742 ext. 22.