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The nationally renowned collections at The South Carolina Historical Society contain records of the lives, passions, struggles and viewpoints of South Carolinians from every era—  pre-colonization to the present. Our archives include the writings of governors, soldiers, and poets; the research of scholars; the diaries of women and travelers; the records of plantations, businesses, and churches. There are maps and plats, architectural drawings and genealogical charts, over 30,000 photographs and prints, as well as 50,000 books, pamphlets, and serials. The South Carolina Historical Society also has one of the nation's largest collections of Confederate imprints.

These vast holdings make The South Carolina Historical Society the world's most important private repository of South Carolina history. Each year, hundreds of researchers including genealogists, authors, lawyers, scholars, and filmmakers come from around the nation and world to the Fireproof building. A team of archivists and reference specialists strive to help make the visit of each researcher efficient and productive and are always willing to explore new territory in order to help researchers draw conclusions.

Please note: The South Carolina Historical Society welcomes visitors with physical or mobility limitations. However, our library is located on the main level of the historic Fireproof Building and the building does not have an elevator. If you have a handicap that prohibits you from climbing our staircases to reach the library, please contact Mary Jo Fairchild (ext. 14) or Karen Stokes (ext. 21) in advance of your visit to make a research appointment. We will gladly set up a temporary research station for you on the ground floor of the building or otherwise accommodate you as best as we are able.