2001 Park Street
Possibly built before 1790, 2001 Park Street may be the oldest extant structure in Columbia. The building's age is not initially evident, as several renovations have dramatically altered its original appearance from that of a clapboard-sided, wood-shingled residence. These include the addition in 1952 of brick veneer; late-18th-century-inspired modern details, such as an entrance adorned with a broken pediment and fluted pilasters; and an asphalt roof. Despite these renovations, the strictly symmetrical building nonetheless retains a few hallmark architectural traits of the Federal style popular between 1780 and 1820. Inside, notable details include wide pine wainscoting and floorboards. That this property survived the turbulent demolition projects that cleared away most of the residential buildings once surrounding the adjacent blocks is remarkable. After decades as apartments, this connection to Columbia's 18th-century architectural heritage was adapted for use as a law office in the 1980s.
