Stephens College South Campus Historic District

Stephens College South Campus Historic District is an educational area in Columbia with multiple buildings in Colonial Revival style spread across approximately 7 acres. The structures display classical architectural features including columns, brick facades, and symmetrical layouts typical of this period.

The institution was founded in 1833 and was among the first colleges for women in the United States. The district received national registration in 2005, documenting a long tradition of women's education.

The campus reflects its role in women's education through how buildings are used and arranged across the grounds. Visitors can sense the continuity of learning spaces that have supported female students for nearly two centuries.

The grounds are accessible by foot along East Broadway, with guided tours available to learn about the buildings and their architectural details. Visitors should allow time to walk through the various structures and explore the campus pathways.

The Firestone Baars Chapel on the grounds was designed by Eero Saarinen, the architect of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. This lesser-known work demonstrates how Saarinen blended modernist forms with the campus's academic architecture.