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

Waverly Community Tour | Road Trip

Video

Community volunteer gives a brief history about the Jenkins' home in the historic Waverly Community. Dr. Douglas Jenkins was the local dentist.
Matthew Perry | S.C. Hall of Fame

Video

Matthew James Perry, Jr. was born in Columbia, South Carolina, August 3, 1921. He attended law school at South Carolina State College and would play a central role in nearly every noteworthy civil...
R. Roy Pearce | Legacy of Leadership Interview

Video

An interview with R. Roy Pearce. Pearce discusses the qualities that are important to a person's success, how to handle challenges, and provides advice to students R. Roy Pearce (1919-2004) Roy Pearce...
Fire Academy, Part 2 | Project Discovery Revisited

Video

Students begin their fire training in a Class A combustible burn building. They learn what fire is and how it burns. In a flashover, flames go from the floor to the ceiling. Breathing is done through...
Fire Academy, Part 1 | Project Discovery Revisited

Video

At the South Carolina Fire Academy, we learn what it takes to become a firefighter. This 208-acre facility contains classrooms, drill towers, a fire station, equipment storage, and teacher offices...
Thomas B. Pearce | Legacy of Leadership Profile

Video

A profile of Thomas Butler Pearce. (1888–1947) Tom Pearce built a small wholesale produce business into one of the nation's largest food distribution companies and still found time to serve his...