Governor's Mansion Wrought Iron Gates

The South Carolina Governor's Mansion became the official residence for state governors in 1868. Built in 1855 as a residence for officers of Arsenal Military Academy, the building was spared during the burning of Columbia in the War Between the States.

The Governor’s Mansion is open for free tours to the public by appointment

Stop and Smell the Flowers.... The Governor’s Mansion Garden is home to some the largest trees in the state (Magnolia and Crape Myrtle). Jim Cothran, a well known garden historian from Atlanta, makes sure to come by because the garden is true to its history, complete with paths of unique crushed stone. The garden is also home to a few old and new impressive fountains. Mrs. Boylston, who lived to be in her 90s, was the major gardener of the boxwood garden and there are some delightful stories about her. Even with the historic nature of the garden and the fact that the Mansion is a home to a very active young (& important) family, the gardens are enjoyed by Columbia citizens and guests. The gardens are very popular with city workers during their lunch break and are used for weddings about every weekend in the spring and summer. The gardens cover a city block and the gates are open to the public during the week 9:30am to 4:30 pm.