Five Reasons You Should Attend the Chili Cook-Off THIS Saturday from 5-8 pm at the State Fairgrounds

Posted on February 22, 2012 by laura_admin

The countdown has begun to this year’s famously hot event (2.25.2012)! We are three days away from The Palladium Society’s 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off and we want you to join in on the fun. This fun-filled evening is an event that will excite the whole family! Here are five reasons why you should attend this year’s event:

1. This year’s event features 30 chili recipes ensuring there is something for everyone. From heart-healthy to good old fashioned meaty, you won’t leave hungry. Enjoy a filling dinner without lifting a finger. No need to cook or clean up!  Simply have a flavorful time and select your favorite recipe!

2. Who doesn’t love a free concert? Enjoy live music all night by Whiskey Tango Revue. This Columbia based country group has been writing, singing and bringing back outlaw country music since 2009. Their lowcountry style will keep you entertained all evening.

3. All-inclusive fun! Your ticket not only gets you through the doors but also guarantees you endless bowls of chili, and beer/wine tickets at no extra cost. Where else can you get a meal, drinks and live entertainment for $30 a person? Not to mention children under the age of 10 get in FREE.

4. Your ticket purchase helps to support an organization committed to preserving the past and promoting avenues to a positive future. Every dollar that comes into HCF ensures Columbia and Richland County’s history is being shared with our community.

5. Thinking about joining The Palladium Society of becoming a member of HCF? This is the perfect opportunity to meet other people who support the mission of Historic Columbia Foundation. This annual event brings out more than 500 of Columbia’s chili lovers. Many of those are members of HCF or of HCF’s young professional’s organization, the Palladium Society. Mix, mingle and make new friends with HCF!

Purchase Tickets:
If you are ready to purchase your Chili Cook-Off tickets visit, http://palladiumcookoff.eventbrite.com. Tickets are $30 for general admission, $25 for HCF members, $20 for Palladium Society members and FREE for children 10 and under. We hope to see you Saturday! 5 – 8 p.m. at the State Fairgrounds Ellison Building. Enter through the Rosewood Drive Gate to park.

Interested in joining HCF? Find out more about becoming a member here. If you are a young professional and want to learn more about the Palladium Society click here.

Posted in Events, The Palladium Society | Leave a comment

This Week in History: February 25, 1962

Posted on February 22, 2012 by laura_admin

We’re taking another look back in history during our 50th Anniversary year as we share another “This Week in History” highlight – this time from The State and The Columbia Record.  The article, published on February 25, 1962 was written by Thomas P. Butler.

Historic Columbia Foundation Preservation Matters This week in History Columbia SCIn reading the opening paragraph today, we have great reason to celebrate.  At the time, Butler wrote “the Ainsley Hall house, now apparently doomed to demolition, is the project of a group of citizens who call themselves the Historic Columbia Foundation.”  Today, the Ainsley Hall house (known as the Robert Mills House) serves as one of Historic Columbia Foundation’s house museums.

Imagining Columbia’s historic landscape without the Ainsley Hall house certainly ignites a preservationist spirit in those who have had the privilege of taking a guided tour of the house museum, enjoyed a leisurely stroll in her gardens or attended an event on her grounds.

During our 50th Anniversary year, we’re again turning to our members, supporters and visitors to once again contribute time, dollars and momentum (via Facebook/Twitter) towards spreading the word about why “Preservation Matters.”

Ways You Can Help:

1. Donate to Historic Columbia Foundation in honor of our 50th Anniversary. In an effort to save the Robert Mills House from demolition 265 visionary individuals, families and businesses each contributed $1,000 (equivalent to a $7,341 gift in 2012) to Historic Columbia Foundation between 1961 and 1964. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Historic Columbia Foundation, our Board of Trustees invites you to continue the legacy of the 265 founding leaders by being among the first 265 donors to make a contribution to our 2011 – 2012 Anniversary Campaign. Your gift may serve as a memorial or honorarium and may be directed to benefit our special projects, endowment or general operation fund as noticed in 50th Anniversary donation form here.

2. Become a member of Historic Columbia Foundation. For as little as $35 (individual), your membership cost helps Historic Columbia Foundation in our local preservation and education efforts. Learn more…

3. Become a fan of the “Preservation Matters: Columbia, SC” page on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/preservationmatters) and follow us on Twitter (@histcolumbia). Your likes, comments and retweets help us spread the word about our organization.

4. Volunteer for Historic Columbia Foundation. By volunteering for Historic Columbia Foundation, you meet new people, visit historic sites and discover the culture and lifestyles of South Carolina’s capital city and Richland County. Spend as little as six hours per month, or volunteer each week with us fulfilling our mission to nurture, support and protect the historical and cultural heritage of Columbia and its environs through programs of advocacy, education and preservation. Learn more about becoming a volunteer (and the many volunteer benefits) here.

5. Spread the word about our 50th Anniversary by posting a link to this blog post on Facebook, Twitter, your blog and/or your website.

6. Encourage your employer to support Historic Columbia Foundation. Much like the 1,000 visionary donors in 1961, sustaining the efforts of Historic Columbia Foundation for the next 50 years will require donations not only from individuals and families, but also from local businesses. You can learn more about our business partners here. Contact Wendi Spratt in our development office at 803.252.7742 ext. 12 or wspratt@historiccolumbia.org.

Why “Preservation Matters”
Since its inception fifty years ago, Historic Columbia Foundation has remained true to its most basic principle – to save architecturally and culturally significant places by educating the public as to their importance. After preventing the destruction of the Robert Mills House the organization grew to further serve the capital city and Richland County as a preservation advocate championing the future or historic structures. Today, Historic Columbia Foundation models historic preservation and public education at the seven historic sites under its stewardship, through public outreach within downtown and county communities alike, and by allying itself with strategic partners dedicated to improving the quality of life for contemporary and future citizens.

Posted in 50th Anniversary of Historic Columbia Foundation, Preservation, This Week in History | Leave a comment

Columbia is Home to South Carolina’s Only Presidential Historic Site, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home

Posted on February 20, 2012 by laura_admin

Located at 1705 Hampton Street in downtown Columbia, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home is South Carolina’s only presidential historic site.  A young Woodrow Wilson, nicknamed “Tommy” as a child, lived at the home when he was just 14 years old.  His father, Dr. Joseph Wilson was a professor at Columbia Theological Seminary for four years (1870 – 1874).

The circa-1872 Italian villa-style property is currently undergoing rehabilitation, but open for hard-hat tours on the first Tuesday of every month at 11 am.  Those interested in taking the tour should meet at the Museum Shop, located just a block away at the Robert Mills House (1616 Blanding Street).  Walk-ins are welcome – the next tour will be held March 6.

A virtual room interpretation of the home is also available online at www.woodrowwilsonfamilyhome.com. Many, if not most, tours of 19th-century historic house sites in the South begin at the front door of the main house where public spaces are viewed. Tours of service areas, including outbuildings, if they remain, may or may not follow. Often the roles of African Americans and others associated with the site’s day-to-day domestic activities are under-represented, if discussed at all. Through this virtual tour of the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, Historic Columbia Foundation hopes to expose visitors to these often neglected aspects of southern history. Evidence in building design, historic artifacts, newspapers, and images highlight the roles that African Americans and the advent of new technology had on shaping domestic work during the Reconstruction era of the mid-1860s through mid-1870s.

About the home, John Sherrer, Director of Culatural Resources says, “The Woodrow Wilson Family Home is a vital link between past and present.”  He goes on to say, “the Wilson family came to Columbia at a pivotal moment in the history of the city and the nation – in the crucible of Reconstruction.”

Members of the media are encouraged to contact Laura Otero, Director of Marketing, at 803.586.3890 for more information.  High-resolution photos are available upon request.

Historic Columbia Foundation manages the Woodrow Wilson Family Home and six other historic properties in Columbia, including the Robert Mills House, Hampton-Preston Mansion and Mann-Simons Site.  House Museums are open Tues-Sunday for guided tours.  More information may be found at historiccolumbia.org or by calling 803-252-1770.

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/histcolumbia
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/historiccolumbia
Web: http://www.historiccolumbia.org
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/discoverhistory

Posted in Press Releases, Tours, Woodrow Wilson Family Home | Leave a comment

Meet-Ups, Tweet-Ups, Corporate Events and More!

Posted on February 16, 2012 by laura_admin


If you’ve lived in the area for long, you’ve likely attended a special event at one of our historic properties. Yes, our charming venues are at the top of the list for many southern brides. But, did you know that we’re also an ideal fit for your corporate meeting, lunch n’ learn session, private party, meet-up, tweet-up, conference and more?

In fact, we’re so serious about proving it to you that we’re rolling out deeply discounted pricing (up to 80% off) for a limited time! Hold your event at one of our venues before June 30, 2012 and you’ll enjoy a memorable venue at a price that will surely dazzle you…

Our Special Offer to You:

We’re more than weddings, and we’re ready to accommodate! Allow us to prove it to you! Contact Amy Kinard at 803.252.7742 ext. 11 or akinard@historiccolumbia.orgto learn more about this special offer. In the meantime, we’re sharing quick-looks at each of our properties below.

seibels-houseExplore your options…
The circa-1796 Seibels House and Gardens is Columbia’s oldest remaining structure, located at 1601 Richland Street. The beautiful gardens feature large Palmetto trees, a striking fountain and blossoming flowers, while the house itself provides an intimate atmosphere for both large and small groups. The indoor space accommodates 80 seated and 150 standing with tables and chairs provided, while the garden accommodates 400. A newly updated bridal suite provides a quiet place to prepare for the day’s festivities. Learn more…

the-big-apple

The Big Apple was home to a synagogue circa-1915 before it was transformed into a 1930’s African-American nightspot. This one-of-a-kind building provides a spacious floor plan with breathtaking hard wood floors, beautiful large windows and a small upstairs balcony. Located at 1000 Hampton Street, the building accommodates 80 seated and 150 standing with tables and chairs provided. Learn more…

robert-mills-house

The Robert Mills House and Garden is one of the city’s few National Historic Landmarks. Robert Mills, a native Charlestonian, designed scores of landmark buildings throughout South Carolina and Washington, D.C. The circa-1823 home provides a picturesque backdrop for any event, also featuring the Founders’ Garden with lush landscaping and ornate gardens. Located at 1616 Blanding Street, the carriage house and courtyard accommodates 75 seated and 125 standing while the full grounds accommodate 400. Learn more…

hampton-preston-mansion

What could be more charming than holding your event on the grounds of a Columbia landmark that epitomizes the lifestyle of the planter-elite in antebellum South Carolina? The grounds of the circa-1818 Hampton-Preston Mansion, with four acres of lush green grass, gardens and of course a stunning antebellum home, can be the venue for your next memorable event. The space accommodates 400. Learn more…

What Others are Saying…
We were extremely happy with the service, attention and cooperative manner we were given. The house is beautiful and we had a fabulous time and will be recommending this venue to all our friends and family.– DeShauna Branham Blinard about the Seibels House and Garden

I had great feedback from my guests at the event. The Big Apple was an excellent place for our reunion and I hope we can use it again in the future.– Anthony L. Mosley

And for those newly-engaged brides…
We had a Charleston wedding in Columbia, SC. All of our guests loved the Seibels House and Gardens. – Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Sawyer, Jr.

Posted in Historic Rental Properties, Special Offers | Leave a comment

Join HCF for the One Columbia History and Historical Preservation Forum

Posted on February 15, 2012 by laura_admin

Come and learn about what One Columbia for Arts and History is doing to support History and Historic Preservation in Columbia and offer your thoughts, ideas and events with the group.

Join us for a light lunch on Wednesday, February 22 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Seibels OneColumbia Arts and HistoryHouse & Garden, 1601 Richland Street.

One Columbia wants to hear from the community to learn more about what is going on to promote history and historical preservation in Columbia and what opportunities there are for further participation and collaboration from other groups.

Join the conversation and help Columbia promote our historical culture and preservation! Please RSVP to info@onecolumbiasc.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

“Famously Hot” Chili Cook-Off Giveaway

Posted on February 14, 2012 by laura_admin

The Palladium Society of Historic Columbia Foundation is giving away two tickets to their upcoming 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off (2.25.2012), a prize value of $60! One lucky winner and a guest of his or her choice will enjoy this “Famously Hot” event featuring a variety of chili recipes, beer, wine and live music by Whiskey Tango Revue.

Quick Entry Links:
Enter via Facebook
Not on Facebook? Enter here instead.

Your 2 tickets are redeemable for the 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off taking place at the State Fairgrounds (Ellison Building) from 5 – 8 p.m. on February 25. Tickets must be picked up at our Museum Shop (1616 Blanding Street) by 2 p.m. on 2/24/2012 to ensure you can enjoy the famously hot event!

Thanks for your entry and good luck! Official Rules & Privacy

Don’t want to wait? Buy Cook-Off Tickets via Eventbrite here.

 

 

Posted in Contests / Giveaways, Events, The Palladium Society | Leave a comment

What to Expect During Historic Columbia Foundation’s History & Heritage Early Adventures Program: Celebrating 200 Years of African-American History in South Carolina

Posted on February 13, 2012 by laura_admin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               
Contact: Laura Otero
Director of Marketing
Historic Columbia Foundation
803-586-3890, lotero@historiccolumbia.org

What to Expect During Historic Columbia Foundation’s
History & Heritage Early Adventures Program: Celebrating 200 Years of African-American History in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, SC – (February 13, 2012) – Historic Columbia Foundation is offering a special program this month aimed at celebrating 200 years of African-American history in South Carolina, a part of their “Early Adventures” series (created especially for private groups of 10 or more children ages 3-8 years old).   The Foundation just released a list of activities they have planned for those able to join in on this 90-minute, hands-on program.
Early Adventures: History and Heritage, Historic Columbia Foundation
Arts and Crafts: Jonathan Green’s book, Gullah Images: The Art of Jonathan Green, will serve as a springboard for children to draw something that inspires them.  Children will make a coil pot out of modeling clay while learning about Edgefield potter and artist, Dave Drake, known as “Dave the Potter”. Drake was born around 1801 and left an amazing autobiography, scrawled on the shoulders and sides of his remaining jugs and vessels.

Dance: Children will dance to a James Brown song, just one of many famous musicians attached to South Carolina.

Story time: Children will enjoy story time with a book by Augusta Baker, the first African-American to coordinate youth services for 82 branches of the New York Public Library. Baker was appointed Storyteller in Residence at USC after retiring in South Carolina.

Sports/Games: Many famous athletes called South Carolina home.  Kids will play a game of t-ball and badminton.   Notable African-American athletes who left their mark on South Carolina include Sterling Sharpe, Larry Doby, Mamie “Peanut” Johnson, Alex English, “Smokin” Joe Frasier and Althea Gibson.

Archaeology: Children will tour the lunch counter exhibit at the Mann-Simons Site, in operation from 1891 until 1909 at the site. We’ll talk about how this was a family of entrepreneurs while children view many artifacts recovered from the site.

Program Specifics: The cost of the program is $6 per child (groups of 10 or more required).  Each program includes story time, games, crafts, snacks and activity leaders. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting Ann Posner at 803.252.1770 ext. 24 or by email at reservations@historiccolumbia.org. The Foundation designed their Early Adventures program to serve daycare and learning centers, birthday parties, schools, churches and clubs.  Each month, a different theme is highlighted during this kid-friendly program.

Upcoming “Early Adventure” programs include:
March – April 2012: Eggstrodinary Fun! http://historiccolumbia.org/site/calendar/2012/03/01/events/early-adventures-eggstrordinary-fu
May –June 2012: Dirt Diggers (at Mann-Simons Site) http://historiccolumbia.org/site/calendar/2012/05/01/events/early-adventures-dirt-diggers-mannsimons-site
July – August 2012: Trunk Loads of Fun http://historiccolumbia.org/site/calendar/2012/07/01/events/early-adventures-trunk-loads-of-fun

About Historic Columbia Foundation: In November 1961, a small group of individuals’ intent on saving the Ainsley Hall House from demolition officially incorporated as the Historic Columbia Foundation. Over the next five decades the organization, which was founded on the premise of preservation and education, would take on the stewardship of seven historic properties in Richland County. Today, the organization serves as a model for local preservation efforts and interpretation of local history. The 50th Anniversary year of Historic Columbia Foundation (which officially began on November 13, 2011) will include a variety of community celebratory events. Visit http://www.historiccolumbia.org for details.

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/histcolumbia
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/historiccolumbia
Web: http://www.historiccolumbia.org
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/discoverhistory

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Posted in Press Releases | Leave a comment

Help us Reach our 1,000th Member: Giveaway Announced!

Posted on February 11, 2012 by laura_admin

Here at Historic Columbia Foundation, we’re this close to reaching an important milestone…our 1,000th member! The timing couldn’t be sweeter, with this being our 50th Anniversary year, and with Valentine’s Day just around the corner.

Family-friendly events!

Our many accomplishments over the last 50 years would not have been made possible without the support of our great members. We’re asking for your help in reaching our 1,000th member, and there’s something special in it for you, too!

The Giveaway:
Help us reach our 1,000th member by joining Historic Columbia Foundation or sponsoring the membership dues of a friend. Lucky member number 1,000 (or his/her sponsor) will receive a special goodie basket from our Museum Shop, customized with $50 worth of store products of his or her choosing. Select from candles, books, jewelry, beer pilsners, palmetto items, kitchen items, jams, jellies, you-name-it. We’re also throwing in TWO tickets to our upcoming Chili Cook-Off (a $60 value), to enjoy with your sweetheart or a friend.

Behind-the-scenes tours!

Join HCF:
Join online (or gift a membership to a friend or family member) or download our print-friendly membership form here.

Benefits of HCF Membership:
HCF members enjoy free tours (year-round) of our historic house museums, a subscription to our quarterly Historically Speaking newsletter, guest passes, discounted pricing to HCF events, museum shop discounts and more! Your membership helps to protect the historical and cultural heritage of Columbia and Richland County for years to come. Memberships dues start at just $35. Learn more…

 

Posted in Contests / Giveaways, Membership Benefits | Leave a comment

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas from our Museum Shop

Posted on February 8, 2012 by laura_admin

A wide array of Gardening books, many priced below $25

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Shop Historic Columbia Foundation for the perfect gift for your loved one. Your purchase helps fund local preservation and education efforts. The Museum Shop is conveniently located at 1616 Blanding Street, with free parking. We’re open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm and Sunday from 1 pm – 5 pm.

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

For the Gardener
If your valentine is a gardener, our Museum Shop features a wide array of gardening books, many priced under $25 including Kitchen & Garden Secrets from South Carolina.

South Carolina pilsner glasses, under $15/each

For the Jewelry Admirer
For the valentine who loves to sparkle, our shop carries a variety of locally-crafted jewelry including a wide selection of jeweled necklaces for under $30 and crystal chandelier designs for $15.

For the Beer Aficionado
Our Museum Shop has a variety of South Carolina pilsner glasses for under $15 (seen left).

For the Foodie
If your valentine appreciates good eats, surprise him or her with tickets to The Palladium Society’s upcoming Chili Cook-Off! Purchase and print tickets online via eventbrite and prepare for a flavorful evening (2.25.2012). The event features live music by Whiskey Tango Revue, more than 20 varieties of chili and carefully-selected Spanish Vines wine. Get your tickets here.

For the History Enthusiast

A variety of hand-crafted jewelry creations


Surprise your valentine with the gift of history! Memberships start at just $35 and offer free admission to our house museums, a subscription to our quarterly newsletter, guest passes, free or discounted admission to HCF events, a shop discount and more. More about HCF membership…

For the Siteseer…
If your valentine enjoys taking in Columbia sights, reserve a place at one of our upcoming events. Browse our bustling calendar of events here.

Planning a Proposal?
Will you be making a proposal to your loved one this Valentine’s Day? After she says “yes!”

Seibels House & Garden

think Historic Columbia Foundation for your wedding venue. Our historic properties make a picturesque backdrop for your special day. More about hosting your event at Historic Columbia Foundation…

About Historic Columbia Foundation:
In November 1961, a small group of individuals intent on saving the Ainsley Hall House from demolition, officially incorporated as the Historic Columbia Foundation. Over the next five decades the organization, which was founded on the premise of preservation and education, would take on the stewardship of seven historic properties in Richland County. Today, the organization serves as a model for local preservation efforts and interpretation of local history. The 50th Anniversary year of Historic Columbia Foundation (which officially began on November 13, 2011) will include a variety of community celebratory events. Visit our calendar of events to browse upcoming events…

Posted in Gift Ideas, Museum Shop | Leave a comment

Free Times Features Early Adventures: History and Heritage Program

Posted on February 8, 2012 by laura_admin

Thanks to Sarah Robbins at the Free Times for featuring the debut of our Early Adventures: History and Heritage Program and other February events in her article “Historic Columbia Celebrates Black History Month.”

Historic Columbia in the Free Times

The Early Adventures: History and Heritage program is designed for private groups of ten or more children ages 3-8. Activities include storytimes, arts and crafts, dance, sports and more. For more information on this program, check out our Celebrating 200 Years of African-American History blog post.

Posted in HCF In the News | Leave a comment