An Architectural Expression of an Idyllic Setting: Columbia's Woodrow Wilson Home
By Warner M.Montgomery Warner@TheColumbiaStar.com

Robin Waites, executive director of the Historic Columbia Foundation, greets representatives from John Milner Associates: Christopher Quirk (l) and Charles Raith (r).

The historic Woodrow Wilson Home in Columbia is on the verge of restoration. The architects in charge, John Milner Associates (JMA), gave a report last week on their research and recommendations.

Charles Raith and Christopher Quirk of JMA presented their 300- page report at the Big Apple. Raith said, "During our months of research, we relied on the house to speak to us." The house spoke, loud and clear, "Reconstruction and historic preservation!"

When built in 1872 by the Wilsons it was "An architectural expression of an idyllic setting for learned pursuits and spiritual withdrawal into a domestic retreat from the city."

Quirk gave an analysis of the style of the house on Hampton Street. The home, built by the Wilsons, relied on the Italianate villa style of A.J. Downing, an American designer. He pointed out areas that must be repaired (sills, roof, plumbing) and items that should be restored to their original condition (steps, shutters, windows, railings, and paint colors).

A drawing by JMA of the original Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home built in 1872 on Hampton St.

The home is owned by Richland County and managed by the Historic Columbia Foundation. Rehabilitation of the 28th president's boyhood home will cost approximately $2 million. The Foundation is currently raising funds for the project. For information, 252-7742 or www.HistoricColumbia. org.