Mann-Simons Site
Historic house museum showcasing the legacy of a prominent African-American family in Columbia, SC, for 130 years.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Vibrant celebration of Black culture
Mann-Simons Site
Best Time
Vibrant celebration of Black culture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic house museum showcasing the legacy of a prominent African-American family in Columbia, SC, for 130 years.
"The story of this amazing, INDUSTRIOUS family is told well through signs, artifacts, and videos, as well as my chatty volunteer guide."
🎯 Tours Start Elsewhere
All tours begin at the Robert Mills gift shop, several blocks away. Plan for a short drive or walk to the Mann-Simons Site.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like the Jubilee Festival for a lively cultural experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mann-Simons House
Historic Columbia
Explore a mid-19th-century cottage, home to a prominent African-American family for 130 years. A testament to resilience and legacy.
Jubilee Festival of Black History and Culture
Mann-Simons Site grounds
An annual celebration of Black culture with music, art, food, and historical tours. A vibrant community event.
Family Tree and Rag Rug
Inside the Mann-Simons House
Discover the impressive family tree and admire the massive, intricate rag rug in the front room, showcasing the family's craftsmanship.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Mann-Simons Site
Understanding the Mann-Simons Legacy
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Tours Start Elsewhere
All tours begin at the Robert Mills gift shop, several blocks away. Plan for a short drive or walk to the Mann-Simons Site.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like the Jubilee Festival for a lively cultural experience. 
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking and a lot behind the house are available.
🗣️ Engaging Guides
Volunteer guides offer detailed insights and make the history come alive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Tours Start Elsewhere
All tours begin at the Robert Mills gift shop, several blocks away. Plan for a short drive or walk to the Mann-Simons Site.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like the Jubilee Festival for a lively cultural experience.
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking and a lot behind the house are available.
🗣️ Engaging Guides
Volunteer guides offer detailed insights and make the history come alive.
✨ Black Excellence Symbol
Discover symbols of Black excellence and resilience, like the Golden Horseshoe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mann-Simons Site for its compelling narrative of an industrious African-American family and the engaging tours. The site is highlighted as a significant historical gem, especially during the vibrant Jubilee Festival. Some visitors have unfortunately found it closed on their intended visit, emphasizing the need to check operating hours.
"They're doing tours again inside the Historic Columbia houses, including the Mann-Simons house. The story of this amazing, INDUSTRIOUS family is told well through signs, artifacts, and videos, as well as my chatty volunteer guide, who was a hoot. I was really taken by the family tree, and the massive rag rug in the front room, it's really nice. There were lots more buildings on this piece of land that are now marked out by "ghost buildings" where you can see where they were and sort of imagine what it would have looked like. This family did not let the grass grow under their feet, they hustled hard. It makes you want to go home and get some work done. There's parking on the street and in a lot behind the house, but all tours start at the Robert Mills gift shop. It's several blocks away, so I followed my tour guide by car."
Sara Beth Wade
"It was closed when I went. I hope to come back to SC one day to visit again a lot of history in this town."
Dido Kinney
"A very good museum about the history of Civil Rights right here in South Carolina, especially when you have a tour guide that can really go into detail"
Jacob Ball
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tours for the Mann-Simons Site, along with other Historic Columbia properties, begin at the Robert Mills gift shop located at 1616 Blanding Street. From there, you can follow your guide by car or walk to the Mann-Simons house, which is a few blocks away.
Yes, there is parking available on the street and in a lot behind the house.
Tours are the primary way to experience the Mann-Simons Site and learn about its history. All tours start at the Robert Mills gift shop.
For convenience, especially if you are visiting multiple sites, driving your own vehicle is recommended as the sites are spread out.
Information on accessibility for the Mann-Simons Site can be obtained by contacting Historic Columbia directly. It's advisable to inquire about specific needs when booking your tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees for tours of the Mann-Simons Site are typically part of Historic Columbia's tour packages. It's best to check the Historic Columbia website for current pricing and tour options.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for guided tours, as they can fill up. Check the Historic Columbia website for booking information.
The Mann-Simons Site is open for tours as part of Historic Columbia's offerings. Operating hours can vary, so it's essential to check the Historic Columbia website for the most up-to-date schedule.
The annual Jubilee Festival of Black History and Culture, held at the Mann-Simons Site, is often free to attend, offering a great opportunity to experience the grounds and some of the history.
While it's best to book in advance, you may be able to purchase tickets on-site at the Robert Mills gift shop if tours are not fully booked. Confirm with Historic Columbia.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours offer a detailed look at the Mann-Simons house, highlighting the story of the industrious family who owned it for 130 years. You'll see artifacts, signs, videos, and learn from knowledgeable guides.
Absolutely! The site is a significant historical gem, particularly for those interested in African-American history, Civil Rights, and Reconstruction-era South Carolina.
Yes, the Mann-Simons Site is a venue for the annual Jubilee Festival of Black History and Culture, which features music, food, vendors, and demonstrations.
The 'ghost buildings' are markers on the land indicating where other structures once stood, allowing visitors to visualize the original layout and imagine the historical landscape.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with your tour guide or Historic Columbia staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on interior photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Mann-Simons Site itself is a historic house museum, food vendors are typically present during special events like the Jubilee Festival, offering a variety of options.
Picnicking might be permitted on the grounds during events, but it's advisable to check event-specific rules. For regular tour days, food and drinks are usually not permitted inside the historic house.
Yes, the Mann-Simons Site is located in downtown Columbia, which offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries within a short distance.
The Jubilee Festival often features diverse food vendors, including local favorites and sometimes options from out of town, catering to various tastes. +1
Yes, attendees have reported finding vegan food vendors at the Jubilee Festival, with specific mentions of delicious vegan burgers.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic Mann-Simons house offers charming architectural details. During events like the Jubilee Festival, the vibrant atmosphere and cultural displays provide excellent photo opportunities.
Photography policies inside historic homes can be restrictive to protect artifacts. It's best to ask your guide or staff for permission before taking photos inside.
Generally, personal social media use is allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and the historical context. Professional photography may require special permits.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing memories. If you're interested in more detailed shots, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens would be ideal.
The Jubilee Festival is a fantastic time for photography, with live performances, artisan demonstrations, and a lively crowd creating dynamic scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historical tours, while informative, can be made more engaging for children by focusing on the stories of the family and the tangible artifacts like the family tree and the rag rug. Consider visiting during the Jubilee Festival for a more dynamic experience with activities tailored for younger visitors. For regular tours, inquire if there are any family-friendly adaptations or if the guides can tailor the narrative for children. The 'ghost buildings' can also spark imagination about what life was like in the past.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the family tree and the details of their lives, which highlight their resilience and success. The concept of 'ghost buildings' also adds a unique dimension, allowing for a deeper visualization of the historical landscape. Visiting during the Jubilee Festival can offer a broader cultural context to the site's historical significance.
📅 Day-Trippers from Nearby Cities
Remember that tours start at the Robert Mills gift shop, so factor in that initial stop and potential short travel to the house itself. To maximize your day, consider timing your visit with the Jubilee Festival if your trip coincides, as it provides a lively atmosphere and additional cultural experiences. Otherwise, a guided tour offers a focused and informative experience that can be completed within a few hours, leaving you time to explore other Columbia attractions.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mann-Simons Family: A Legacy of Resilience
+1Through signs, artifacts, and engaging videos, the site vividly portrays the family's journey. A particularly striking element is the family tree, which visually maps out their lineage and achievements. The massive rag rug in the front room is another highlight, showcasing the family's craftsmanship and dedication to their home. The site also uses innovative methods like 'ghost buildings' to illustrate the original layout of the property, allowing visitors to better imagine the historical context and the scale of the family's endeavors.
Understanding the Mann-Simons family's story provides crucial insight into the African-American experience in the South during a pivotal period. Their hustle and hard work serve as an inspiration, encouraging visitors to reflect on their own pursuits and the importance of building lasting legacies. The site offers a deeply personal and historically significant glimpse into a family that shaped their community.
Experiencing the Jubilee Festival
+4The festival typically features a full lineup of live performances, showcasing local and regional talent in music and dance. Attendees can also explore a bustling marketplace with artisan crafts and goods, and indulge in a variety of food and drink vendors, often including unique culinary offerings from Charlotte and beyond. For families, there's usually a dedicated Kids Zone and engaging demonstrations by Black artisans, making it a fun-filled day for all ages.
+2Beyond the festivities, the Jubilee Festival also offers free tours of the historic Mann-Simons Site, providing a unique chance to explore the house and learn about its significance. This blend of celebration and education makes the Jubilee Festival a must-attend event for anyone visiting Columbia during its occurrence, offering a dynamic and enriching experience.
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