Old Campus District, University of South Carolina

The Old Campus District is a historic area of the University of South Carolina containing buildings constructed from 1801 through the early 1900s, showing Greek Revival and Classical Revival architectural styles. The McKissick Museum within the district displays permanent exhibitions of minerals, historical artifacts, and decorative arts from various periods of South Carolina's past.

The district was founded in 1801 and grew as a center of higher education in South Carolina across more than 200 years. The buildings document the evolution of academic life and later earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places.

The central Horseshoe green serves as a gathering place where students and faculty come together for ceremonies, lectures, and celebrations. This open space defines the rhythm of campus life and invites people to linger.

The site is freely accessible and best explored on foot during weekdays or semester breaks when the campus is quieter. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and allow time to wander through the various buildings and visit the McKissick Museum at their own pace.

The South Caroliniana Library, built in 1840, houses the largest collection of state manuscripts and remains open for research visits, making it a hidden treasure for history enthusiasts. This specialized library is often overlooked by casual visitors despite containing centuries of documented history.

Location: South Carolina

GPS coordinates: 33.99830,-81.02860

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:09