Midtown - Downtown in Columbia in Richland County, South Carolina — The American South (South Atlantic)
New Guests in the Old Garden
From January 1873 until May 1874, the estate's new owner, Governor Franklin J. Moses, challenged long-held racial and class structure. His activities drew national attention, as the New York Herald reported his frequent gatherings with "negroes and low whites puffing cigarettes." These mixed-race associations angered many white southerners who hated the empowerment of black men and the state's integrated legislature. Much to the delight of his enemies, Moses lost his prized property following political scandal and financial ruin after less than two years at the estate.
[Captions:]
The estate's garden was a favorite setting for photographers during the 1870s through the 1930s. These fashionably dressed men and women, gathered here in 1874, many have been guests of Governor Moses and his wife, Emma.
Political rivals often portrayed the controversial governor as a thief who broke traditional racial customs.
Erected by Historic Columbia Foundation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Government & Politics. A significant historical month for this entry is January 1873.
Location. 34° 0.674′ N,
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Regionally, this marker is in the Midlands. It is also in the American South and specifically in the Deep South. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Following in History's Footsteps (here, next to this marker); More Rooms, More Work (within shouting distance of this marker); History Under Foot (within shouting distance of this marker); The People Behind the Plants (within shouting distance of this marker); Formal Education for a New Class
Credits. This page was last revised on January 24, 2026. It was originally submitted on January 24, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 41 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 24, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
