South Carolina takes pride in this splendid Mansion, which has been "home" to more than thirty governors and their families through the years.

Built in 1855 as a residence for officers of the Arsenal Military Academy, the building was spared during the burning of Columbia in the Civil War. It was selected as the official residence for the state's governors in 1868.

The Mansion, however, is more than a residence. The public rooms are a repository of treasures - silver and china, furniture, paintings and documents - that remain permanently in the Mansion. All are illustrative of the rich history and heritage of South Carolina.

The Mansion also is where visiting dignitaries are officially entertained. Here, in the same rooms shown in this brochure, South Carolina extends a warm welcome to these emissaries who visit our state.
The grounds of the Mansion contain nine acres of land in the heart of the historic district of Columbia. Two other houses, The Lace House and The Caldwell-Boylston House, are located on the grounds.

Two organizations work closely with the State on matters concerning these three buildings. The Governor's Mansion Commission is the custodian of the contents of the public rooms of the Mansion and the other two houses. The Commission approves all alterations, additions and renovations. The Governor's Mansion Foundation, a non-profit corporation, seeks donations of furnishings and administers monies used to acquire artifacts.