Richland

Richland County lies in the South Carolina midlands. Its county seat, Columbia, also serves as the state capital.

Richland County lies in the South Carolina midlands. Its county seat, Columbia, also serves as the state capital.

The county was founded in 1785 within the Camden District, and its name most likely refers to the “rich land” of the county. In 1791, Richland County became smaller when land previously belonging to this county was added to Kershaw County.

During the Civil War, Sherman entered Richland County and occupied Columbia before setting it on fire.

Since its founding, Columbia has served as an economic hub for the state, especially in terms of trade and manufacturing. The county is home to Fort Jackson, Congaree National Park, and multiple lakes and rivers. Notable county residents include Senator Wade Hampton and President Woodrow Wilson.

 

SOURCES: About Richland County

Burning of Columbia | Palmetto Heritage

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This reenactment is based on excerpts from Emma LeConte’s diary. Emma, then seventeen years old, kept a diary for several months in 1865 chronicling the approach, occupation and burning of the city of...
SC State House, Part 4
Episode 4

Video

Questions could only be asked during the live program. Please do not call now. Questions include the following: Years for renovation to be completed: 3 full years Cost of the renovation: Whole project...
SC State House, Part 3
Episode 3

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Architect Joe Rogers discusses renovations needed to bring the South Carolina State House up to current building standards for the safety of occupants, work that was needed on the foundation, and...
SC State House, Part 2
Episode 2

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The construction of the State House was begun in 1855 and continued through February 17, 1865. It is South Carolina's third State House. The first one was built in the mid-18th century in Charleston...
SC State House, Part 1
Episode 1

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A visit to the renovated South Carolina State House. At the end of the 1995 Legislative Session, State House staff moved across the street and the construction crews moved in. Many challenges were...
Jean Hoefer Toal | Periscope
Jean Hoefer Toal | Periscope
Episode 4

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Jean Hoefer Toal was elected the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court on March 23, 2000. As Chief Justice, she presides over the highest court in South Carolina. Her court sets the rules...
Mary Oliphant | Periscope
Mary Oliphant | Periscope
Episode 2

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The textbooks used today in the study of South Carolina history are influenced by the work of Mary C. Simms Oliphant. Her book The South Carolina Reader taught South Carolinians their state's history...