Soaring to New Heights
Friday, January 3rd 2025
In January 2024, Historic Columbia introduced its Birdwatching in the Gardens program—a monthly bird walk that has taken flight as a standout success during its first year. Typically held on the second Thursday of each month in the lush gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion, this free, guided program offers participants an opportunity to connect with nature and explore the world of local and migratory birds, all while surrounded by beautifully preserved historical landscapes.
A Natural Fit
Historic Columbia’s mission to preserve and interpret the city’s rich cultural history found an unexpected yet perfect complement in birdwatching. Gardens like those at the Hampton-Preston Mansion are not just showcases of native plants; they are also thriving habitats for birds, hosting over 100 species throughout the year. Recognizing this harmony between history and ecology, the Birdwatching in the Gardens program was developed with the goal of connecting the community to Columbia’s wildlife in a way that complements the organization’s broader preservation efforts.
Guided by John Tjaarda, Historic Columbia’s “Resident Bird Nerd,” participants are led on an educational tour through the gardens, where they learn to identify birds by sight, sound, and behavior. Tjaarda’s passion for birding, along with his years of experience, has made the program an immediate favorite. “I want to make birding more accessible for everybody,” Tjaarda shared. “If I can offer my services as a free expert, that makes birding more accessible, and maybe somebody else will fall in love with birding.”
A Soaring Success
Since its launch, the program has consistently reached its capacity each month, drawing a diverse crowd of bird enthusiasts. Though small, with only 15 participants per session to minimize disruption to the birds, the program’s intimate format has proven to be a key component of its success. Each bird walk offers participants the chance to observe birds up close, with ample time for Tjaarda to share detailed insights into bird behaviors. This relaxed pace allows beginners and experienced birders alike to learn at their own speed, while the gardens provide an ideal environment for sightings.
Accessibility and Community Impact
A key component of the program’s success is its accessibility. By offering the bird walks for free, Historic Columbia ensures that the program is open to all, regardless of experience or background. Participants need only show up at the Hampton-Preston Gardens, binoculars in hand, ready to be immersed in the natural beauty of Columbia’s avian inhabitants. Tjaarda’s enthusiasm for making birdwatching accessible reflects a larger goal of fostering a community of birders.
As he explains, “Birding builds a community quickly. There’s something really special about sharing a sighting with others—it’s a way of connecting with both nature and people.” This spirit of inclusivity and education has helped form a growing community of birdwatchers in Columbia, drawn together by the monthly walks.
Showcasing Living Landscapes
The Birdwatching in the Gardens program is also a prime example of how Historic Columbia is finding new, creative ways to use its historic properties. In addition to preserving the city’s history, the organization is showcasing its sites as living landscapes that connect the past with the present, all while promoting environmental awareness.
As for the Birdwatching in the Gardens program, its impact will only continue to grow. With each monthly walk filling up quickly, there are plans to expand the offerings to meet demand. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking to enjoy the tranquility of nature, this program offers a unique way to experience Columbia’s wildlife and history in one beautiful setting.
For those interested in joining the next bird walk, visit the event pages below to reserve your spot—it’s a chance to explore nature, deepen your understanding of the city’s ecological heritage, and perhaps even spark a new passion for birding.
Register for upcoming Birdwatching in the Gardens
See All Events13 Feb
Thursday, February 13th: 8 — 10 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
06 Mar
Thursday, March 6th: 8 — 10 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
10 Apr
Thursday, April 10th: 8 — 10 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Grab your binoculars to join Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda for a free, guided bird walk around the Hampton-Preston Gardens to learn about the many local and migratory birds in Columbia. With the Hampton-Preston gardens playing host to over 100 bird species over the course of the year...
20 Sep
Saturday, September 20th: 11 a.m. — 6 p.m.
Jubilee: Festival of Black History and Culture
1403 Richland Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Experience the vibrant spirit of history and culture at the 47th annual Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture, hosted by Historic Columbia! Join us on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for a spectacular day filled with music, art, dance, and captivating stories, all set...
History is alive at our
Public Gardens
Our 14 acres of historically-inspired landscapes in the heart of Robert Mills Historic District feature heirloom plantings popular with gardeners over the past two centuries.