McMaster School

McMaster School is a school building with Renaissance Revival architecture at the corner of Pickens and Senate Streets in Columbia. The structure has an H-shaped floor plan and has been occupied by the Department of Art since 1993, following renovations that added an auditorium and rehearsal spaces.

The building was designed in 1910 by architect William Augustus Edwards and followed standardized guidelines established by the state in 1905. It opened in 1911 and quickly became recognized as one of the city's most distinguished school structures.

The building was named to honor Fitz William McMaster, a key figure in establishing Columbia's public school system. The name reflects his important role in shaping the city's educational development.

The building is actively used by the art department and can be explored from the outside to appreciate its Renaissance Revival facade. Its location at the corner of two main streets makes it easy to find and access.

When the building opened in 1911, the State newspaper called it the most beautiful school building in Columbia. This contemporary praise shows how much the structure was valued as an architectural highlight of the city.

Location: Columbia

Inception: 1910

Architects: William Augustus Edwards

GPS coordinates: 34.00220,-81.02610

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40