Soaring to New Heights
Friday, January 3rd 2025
In January 2024, Historic Columbia introduced its Birdwatching in the Gardens program—a monthly bird walk that has taken flight as a standout success during its first year. Typically held on the second Thursday of each month in the lush gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion, this free, guided program offers participants an opportunity to connect with nature and explore the world of local and migratory birds, all while surrounded by beautifully preserved historical landscapes.
A Natural Fit
Historic Columbia’s mission to preserve and interpret the city’s rich cultural history found an unexpected yet perfect complement in birdwatching. Gardens like those at the Hampton-Preston Mansion are not just showcases of native plants; they are also thriving habitats for birds, hosting over 100 species throughout the year. Recognizing this harmony between history and ecology, the Birdwatching in the Gardens program was developed with the goal of connecting the community to Columbia’s wildlife in a way that complements the organization’s broader preservation efforts.
Guided by John Tjaarda, Historic Columbia’s “Resident Bird Nerd,” participants are led on an educational tour through the gardens, where they learn to identify birds by sight, sound, and behavior. Tjaarda’s passion for birding, along with his years of experience, has made the program an immediate favorite. “I want to make birding more accessible for everybody,” Tjaarda shared. “If I can offer my services as a free expert, that makes birding more accessible, and maybe somebody else will fall in love with birding.”
A Soaring Success
Since its launch, the program has consistently reached its capacity each month, drawing a diverse crowd of bird enthusiasts. Though small, with only 15 participants per session to minimize disruption to the birds, the program’s intimate format has proven to be a key component of its success. Each bird walk offers participants the chance to observe birds up close, with ample time for Tjaarda to share detailed insights into bird behaviors. This relaxed pace allows beginners and experienced birders alike to learn at their own speed, while the gardens provide an ideal environment for sightings.
Accessibility and Community Impact
A key component of the program’s success is its accessibility. By offering the bird walks for free, Historic Columbia ensures that the program is open to all, regardless of experience or background. Participants need only show up at the Hampton-Preston Gardens, binoculars in hand, ready to be immersed in the natural beauty of Columbia’s avian inhabitants. Tjaarda’s enthusiasm for making birdwatching accessible reflects a larger goal of fostering a community of birders.
As he explains, “Birding builds a community quickly. There’s something really special about sharing a sighting with others—it’s a way of connecting with both nature and people.” This spirit of inclusivity and education has helped form a growing community of birdwatchers in Columbia, drawn together by the monthly walks.
Showcasing Living Landscapes
The Birdwatching in the Gardens program is also a prime example of how Historic Columbia is finding new, creative ways to use its historic properties. In addition to preserving the city’s history, the organization is showcasing its sites as living landscapes that connect the past with the present, all while promoting environmental awareness.
As for the Birdwatching in the Gardens program, its impact will only continue to grow. With each monthly walk filling up quickly, there are plans to expand the offerings to meet demand. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking to enjoy the tranquility of nature, this program offers a unique way to experience Columbia’s wildlife and history in one beautiful setting.
For those interested in joining the next bird walk, visit the event pages below to reserve your spot—it’s a chance to explore nature, deepen your understanding of the city’s ecological heritage, and perhaps even spark a new passion for birding.
Register for upcoming Birdwatching in the Gardens
See All Events24 Sep
Thursday, September 24th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
08 Oct
Thursday, October 8th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
10 Oct
Saturday, October 10th: 8 — 9 a.m.
Family Birdwatching in the Gardens
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Bring the whole family for a special birdwatching adventure during Historic Columbia's Fall Plant Sale! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a fun, guided exploration of the Hampton-Preston Gardens as you discover the resident and migratory birds that call Columbia home. Participants will...
22 Oct
Thursday, October 22nd: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
12 Nov
Thursday, November 12th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
History is alive at our
Public Gardens
Our 14 acres of historically-inspired landscapes in the heart of Robert Mills Historic District feature heirloom plantings popular with gardeners over the past two centuries.