Renowned architect and South Carolina native Robert Mills (1781-1855) was one of the nation’s first American-born, professionally-trained architects. Born in Charleston, Mills left for Washington, D.C. following his graduation from the College of Charleston at the age of 19 and began working on the construction of the White House as an apprentice. Mills’ talent and skill in architecture eventually led to his design of major structures around the nation, including the Washington Monument, as well as several public buildings around South Carolina. He also served as State Architect and Engineer for the South Carolina Board of Public Works from 1820 through 1830. Mills, who was influenced by Thomas Jefferson, preferred Classical Revival architecture, as it signified the revitalization of the ancient republics in the new nation following the Revolutionary War.
