About Historic Columbia
Our Pillars
Preservation
We serve as a steward, advocate and resource for preservation in Columbia and Richland County.
Learn MoreOur Pillars
Experiences
We create experiences and host events that bring context to the present through history.
Learn MoreOur Pillars
Education
We introduce the complexities of history in ways that engage every age and level of familiarity 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 preserve places and share complex stories from the past that connect us in the present and inspire our future.
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
Historic Columbia Receives 2026 Organizational Excellence Award
Presented by Preservation South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Archives and History, and the Office of the Governor, the annual awards recognize exceptional accomplishments in the preservation, rehabilitation, and interpretation of South Carolina’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Historic Columbia Calls for Action to Protect Section 106
On Friday, July 24, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP)—an independent federal agency that promotes the preservation of America's historic places, advises the government on policy, and oversees the Section 106 review process—voted to advance a sweeping rewrite of the federal regulations that implement Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The vote did not make the proposed changes final. In solidarity with fellow historic preservation organizations, businesses, and preservation-minded citizens, Historic Columbia resolutely opposes these proposed changes. They would weaken public participation, diminish meaningful consultation with Tribal Nations and state and local governments, narrow the range of historic and cultural places considered, and give federal agencies substantially greater control over reviewing the effects of their own projects.
Main Stage Entertainment Lineup Announced for the 48th Annual Jubilee: Festival of Black History and Culture
Historic Columbia is pleased to announce the main stage entertainment lineup for the 48th annual Jubilee: Festival of Black History and Culture on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Mann-Simons Site at 1403 Richland Street. This free, community festival celebrates the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Black Columbia.
Renovation Rodeo | Main Street District
Palladium presented Renovation Rodeo | Main Street District on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Over 40 guests toured this luxury short-term rental, located in the historic Brown Building, while enjoying beverages from Columbia Craft Brewing Company and delicious food from Something Small Catering. This event was proudly sponsored by Garvin Design Group and Rikard & Protopapas.