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The Robert Mills House will be closed to the public on Wednesday, March 22, through Sunday, March 26, 2023. Regular tours will resume on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. We apologize for any inconvenience.

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  4. 2408 Marion Street

2408 Marion Street

2408 Marion Street

Former Residence of Mayor Lester Bates

Built in 1931, this residence was the home of Lester Lee Bates, Sr. from 1943 until his death in 1988. An astute insurance businessman, Bates also served Columbia as an elected official during years of considerable growth. His first office was that of city councilman from 1944 to 1952. Six years later, in 1958, Bates was elected mayor, a position he retained until 1970. Highlights of Bates’ time in office included Fort Jackson’s incorporation into the city limits; the peaceful integration of Columbia’s lunch counters during the Civil Rights movement; and the state capital twice receiving All-America City designation.

  • 2408 marion

    Former Residence of Mayor Lester Bates, 2018. Historic Columbia collection

  • Bates family

    Mayor Bates and family. Image courtesy South Carolina Political Collections, University of South Carolina, Columbia

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    Historic Columbia

    © 2023 Historic Columbia

    Administrative Offices
    1601 Richland Street
    Columbia, SC 29201

    Tours
    All historic house and garden tours start at the Gift Shop at Robert Mills.
    1616 Blanding Street
    Columbia, SC 29201

    Questions? Call (803) 252-7742.

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