John Sherrer
Historic Columbia Calls for Action to Protect Section 106
Monday, July 27th 2026
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.
Celebrating 50 Years: Awards, Advocacy, & Advancement in Historic Preservation
Friday, May 8th 2026
Historic Columbia celebrates 50 years of its Preservation Awards program in 2026. While the Preservation Awards highlight visible successes, Historic Columbia’s broader impact lies in the work that makes those successes possible. For five decades, the organization has operated as a connector, advocate, and catalyst—roles that continue to shape preservation outcomes across the city.
2026 Preservation Awards | A.S. Salley Library & Office
Thursday, May 14th 2026
Rehabilitation work at 1917 College Street focused on stabilizing a historic structure long challenged by drainage and foundation issues while preserving its architectural character. Thoughtful repairs and system upgrades ensured the building’s continued use and long-term preservation.
2026 Preservation Awards | Pickens Street Cottages
Thursday, May 14th 2026
The Pickens Street Cottages transformed a former parking lot into a residential enclave that echoes the scale and rhythm of the surrounding historic neighborhood. Through compatible design, materials, and site planning, the project reestablished a sense of continuity with the block’s residential past.
2026 Preservation Awards | Finlay Park
Thursday, May 14th 2026
The $24 million Finlay Park Revitalization Project restored the vitality of this important civic landscape, returning the park to its role as a vibrant public destination. Today, the revitalized Finlay Park demonstrates how thoughtful design and government investment are central in the ongoing life of public green spaces expected to serve as social, cultural, and recreational destinations in urban settings.
2026 Preservation Awards | Advent Christian Church
Thursday, May 14th 2026
At 1419 Anthony Avenue, a former 1940s church was carefully adapted into a private residence while retaining its historic identity. Restored materials and preserved interior features allow the building’s layered history to remain visible in its new life.
2026 Preservation Awards | 2200 Sumter Street
Thursday, May 14th 2026
Rehabilitation of 2200 Sumter Street brought a mid-century commercial building back to life after decades of neglect. Restored transparency, repaired historic features, and sensitive interior reuse reconnected the structure to its surrounding corridor.
2026 Preservation Awards | Olympia Armory
Thursday, May 14th 2026
Constructed in 1937, the Olympia Armory was carefully rehabilitated to preserve its New Deal–era character while supporting continued military and community use. Restored masonry, windows, and interior spaces ensure the building’s historic presence remains intact and functional.
2026 Preservation Awards | Horry-Guignard House
Thursday, May 14th 2026
Erected around 1813, the Horry-Guignard House was rehabilitated in a phased effort that preserved its early historic fabric while adapting it for modern use. Restored exterior materials and sensitive interior upgrades allow it to continue serving as a functional space while retaining its historic character.
2026 Preservation Awards | Central Fire Station
Thursday, May 14th 2026
The former Columbia Central Fire Station was transformed into The Lantern, a boutique hotel that reimagines the mid-century civic complex for contemporary use. Key architectural elements were retained while former operational spaces were adapted into welcoming hospitality areas.