Robert Mills House and Gardens
Robert Mills House and Gardens
Robert Mills House and Gardens
1616 Blanding Street | Columbia, SC 29201
Named for its famous designer and native South Carolinian, the Robert Mills Carriage House & Gardens display sophisticated architecture on an expansive tree-lined property, just minutes from downtown Columbia. Four spacious garden areas, an indoor Carriage House, and a shaded garden with pergola offer event flexibility. While the entire property is ideal for large events, individual gardens can be rented for small weddings or corporate events.
Venue Details
Beautiful Gardens, Endless Possibilities
Weddings and Receptions
Exchange vows surrounded by greenery, gather for cocktails among the gardens, and celebrate against the backdrop of the Robert Mills House. The property’s combination of gardens, lawn, and indoor space allows each part of your celebration to feel distinctive while remaining connected.
Celebrations
Milestone birthdays, anniversaries, graduation parties, rehearsal dinners, and family gatherings take on added character in a setting surrounded by historic architecture and gardens.
Corporate and Community Events
Host a reception, dinner, meeting, fundraiser, or community gathering in a venue that feels far removed from a traditional ballroom or conference room.
An Architectural Landmark
Completed in 1823 and designed by renowned architect Robert Mills, the Robert Mills House is a National Historic Landmark and one of Columbia’s most significant historic buildings. While designed as a city residence, the property was ultimately home to three different religious schools, including the Columbia Theological Seminary and Columbia Bible College. When the property was threatened with demolition in 1961, community members rallied to save it, leading to the founding of Historic Columbia. Today, the house and surrounding gardens remain at the heart of the organization’s preservation work.
This ca.-1940 image of Columbia Bible College—now known as the Robert Mills House—depicts the dining hall, grounds, and the campus wall looking northeast from Pickens Street. Image courtesy Historic Columbia archive
Next Steps
Schedule a Tour
Contact our Rental Coordinator to set up a time to see the venues in person and discuss booking procedures. Here, you'll provide a little more information about your specific needs and dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our FAQs will provide insight into pricing, deposits, vendors, and much more.
Booking Information
Click here to request more information about renting one of our properties. You can also contact our rental department at (803) 252-7742 ext. 11 or email us at rentals@historiccolumbia.org.