Why Palladium - Hardy Childers

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 Hardy Childers

How long have you been involved with Palladium?

Six years.

Where are you originally from?

Columbia, SC.

What is your current profession and the name of the organization in which you work?

Risk Consultant at PwC

Tell us, in your own words, why you became a member of Palladium.

Brian Cuthrell, a friend and former board member of Palladium, insisted this group would be up my alley. He wasn't wrong and I've gotten more involved ever since.

What is your favorite part about Palladium membership?

I may be a bit biased but the Renovation Rodeos are my favorite part. Getting to learn the history of the people who had lived in the house and the surrounding neighborhood while also getting to learn how the homeowner restored their house and then tour it is a great combination. It's been exciting transitioning this to a virtual format.

Why is history cool to you?

History allows me to see my city in a new light and from different angles. It gives us a shared identity while allowing for introspection to be better moving forward.

What's your favorite moment in history and/or a historical figure that inspires you?

My favorite historical figure is Janie DuBose. She was a Columbian who published the earliest known example of what we know of today as pimento cheese. Pimento cheese was originally made only with cream cheese and not grated cheese like we do today. The earliest known example of a recipe using grated cheese and not cream cheese is her recipe found in the 1912 Columbia cookbook, A Friend in Need.

What is your favorite building in Columbia?

My favorite building in Columbia is the circa 1756 log house that was discovered on River Drive after some siding was removed in the 1960's. It has since been moved to Sesqui State Park where it can be visited today. Lore says it was the old River House, once an 18th century tavern, that holds a ghost specter that guarded a hidden stash of gold.

What is the most inspirational program to you that Historic Columbia is focused on?

I'm a big fan of the self guided history tours that Historic Columbia has put together which can be accessed online or in brochures. They are diverse covering topics such as important African American, Jewish and Civil War sites all the way to your favorite neighborhood.