Gain insightful information about one of Columbia's most cherished historic sites and home to many people during this four-week series. Go behind the scenes for in-depth accounts on the lives, work and culture of those who lived at the Hampton-Preston Mansion property.

March 23
Home to Many People, 1818 - 1890

Join Alexis Thompson, Historic Columbia Foundation’s Director of Historic House Museums, as she recounts the lives and events of the Halls, Hamptons, Prestons and those persons who later came to call the 1615 Blanding Street property home following the Civil War.  A post-presentation tour of the site’s first floor and basement will offer participants glimpses into the site’s antebellum
grandeur.

March 30
An Estate Turned College Campus, 1890-1930

For 40 years, Columbia’s grandest antebellum property came to be known as the campus for the College for Women and Chicora College for Women.  Our Director of Historic House Museums explores campus life, education, and expectations for those women who were among the first of their generation to receive four-year degrees in the South.  Following the presentation, guests will tour the property’s newly-installed dormitory room and view a selection of college-related artifacts on
display.

April 6
From Mortar Boards to Mop Caps:  A Landmark Learns New Tricks, 1930-1970

Historic Columbia Foundation’s Director of Cultural Resources, John Sherrer, delves into the 40-year post-college period when the former estate was put to numerous uses by students, renters, tourists, and preservationists.  The evening’s discussion will culminate in an opportunity for attendees to see a rich assortment of artifacts from the site’s time as the Midlands Tricentennial Exposition Center from 1970 through 1971.

April 13
History in the Making:  That Was Then, This is Now, What Could it Be?

Historic Columbia Foundation’s Director of Cultural Resources, chronicles the historic site’s past 40 years as a heritage tourism destination, changes at the former estate, its garden restoration plan, and what the future might hold at this county-owned landmark.  Following the presentation, Historic Columbia Foundation invites guests to share their experiences with this venerable historic site and offer their opinions as to its potential for the next generation, including implementing further garden and interpretive improvements.
 

Download registration form and schedule or call to register.