About Historic Columbia
Our Pillars
Preservation
We advocate for the preservation of historic properties and artifacts in Columbia and Richland County.
Learn MoreOur Pillars
Education
We keep neighborhood history alive in the hearts and minds of today's residents through tours, educational programs and special events.
Learn MoreOur Pillars
Advocacy
We work with government agencies to secure our legacy for the future.
Learn MoreWe are the stewards of Columbia's past, present and future.
Historic Columbia is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Columbia and Richland County's historic and cultural heritage. We are meaningful in many ways:
- We are historic houses and beautiful gardens.
- We are a museum under many roofs.
- We are dedicated to delivering engaging programs and events.
- We are champions for historic preservation.
- We are a resource for our community.
- We offer history lessons inside and outside the classroom.
- We are a unique special events destination.
Vision
We will harness the power of history to inspire curiosity and catalyze community engagement.
Mission
We share the complex history of Columbia and Richland County through historic preservation advocacy, innovative educational programs, and strategic partnerships.
Values
Welcoming: We behave in a way that makes people feel safe to open themselves up to a variety of concepts and experiences.
Inclusive: We are intentional about ongoing efforts to include a diversity of individuals in decision-making.
Informed: We work consistently and collaboratively with partners to amplify learning.
Responsible: We are proactive in encouraging thoughtfulness, weighing possible outcomes, and considering what is best for the organization and Columbia/Richland County.
Evolving: We continuously make improvements to Historic Columbia’s policies, facilities, programs, and interpretations. Open to new ideas and suggestions from the public, we invite collaboration.
Join Us
There are many ways in which you can get involved. Learn more about how you can support our mission and vision.
Recent News from Historic Columbia
Why Palladium - Andrew Montgomery
Each month, Historic Columbia introduces one of its Palladium members. This series is designed to highlight individuals from HC’s dynamic group of diverse professionals. Meet Andrew Montgomery How long have you been involved with Palladium? 6 years. Where are you originally from? Houston, Texas If you are not from Columbia...
What’s Happening This Month: October Events with Historic Columbia
Are you ready for fall? Historic Columbia has you covered this month with a variety of fun and education activities around Halloween, gardening and more! Scan our event schedule below and find a few that might interest you and your family. Exhibit | Scarecrows in the Garden Runs through Sunday...
LGBTQ Columbia History Initiative: Six collection items to help tell the story
LGBTQ+ people have always been, and will always be, part of Columbia’s story. Historic Columbia’s latest initiative – a collection of oral histories, digital archives, virtual tours, and more on LGBTQ history in the capital city – is set to launch soon. As a first step, we collaborated with South...
Family Flight Night Presented by Columbia Metropolitan Airport
In association with presenting sponsor Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), Historic Columbia (HC) is hosting Family Flight Night featuring the movie “Planes” on Friday, Oct. 1, on the grounds of the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens. This event, a continuation of HC’s popular “Movies in the Garden” series, will begin at 6:30...