South Carolina State House
South Carolina
The South Carolina State House, located in Columbia, serves as the seat of the state government, including the General Assembly and offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Designed in the Classical Revival style, the building stands approximately 180 feet tall and encompasses over 130,000 square feet of space. Construction began in 1851 but faced numerous setbacks including dismissal of the original architect, defective materials, and damage caused during the Civil War when Columbia was burned in 1865. The building was finally completed in 1875, with interior work continuing into the 1890s and exterior finishing completed by 1907. It features a prominent dome that was renovated in the late 20th century. The State House grounds contain several monuments and have undergone various landscaping plans, though public criticism of their condition persisted into the 20th century. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, the State House symbolizes South Carolina’s political history and resilience through Reconstruction.
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Tipp: Visitors are advised to check the official South Carolina State House website for current visiting hours and any scheduled legislative sessions that may affect tours. The best time to visit is during spring or fall when the weather is mild and the grounds are most pleasant. Guided tours may be available, and advance booking is recommended during busy legislative periods. No specific ticket prices are required as it is a government building, but donations or special event fees may apply. Accessibility accommodations are provided.
Interessante Fakten
- •The original State House was designed by James Hoban, who later designed the White House in Washington D.C.
- •The building weighs over 70,000 short tons and covers more than 130,000 square feet.
- •The State House dome was re-skinned with new copper in 1998 during major renovations.
- •The building was damaged by artillery shells during the Civil War when Union forces entered Columbia.
- •The grounds have been criticized historically for poor maintenance and disorganized monument placement.
Geschichte
The original South Carolina State House was built between 1786 and 1790 but was destroyed during the burning of Columbia in 1865 by Union troops.
The current building’s construction started in 1851 but was interrupted by the Civil War and damage from artillery and fire.
Reconstruction-era poverty delayed completion until 1875, with interior and exterior work continuing into the early 20th century.
The building has undergone renovations in 1959 and 1998 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 for its importance in the Reconstruction Era.
Ortsführer
Senate Chamber1851-1907
The chamber where the South Carolina Senate convenes, featuring historic legislative artifacts and architectural details reflective of the building's 19th-century origins.
Governor's OfficeLate 19th century
Official office space for the Governor of South Carolina, showcasing period furnishings and state symbols.
State House Dome1907 (completed), renovated 1998
The prominent dome atop the building, a key architectural feature that was renovated and re-skinned with copper in 1998 to preserve its historic appearance.
State House Grounds and MonumentsDesigned partially in 1878 and early 20th century
The surrounding grounds include various monuments commemorating South Carolina's history. The landscaping has evolved since the 19th century but has faced criticism for lack of cohesive design.
Kontakt
Telefon: (803) 734-5049
