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The Athenaeum

  • Overview

    The Historic Athenaeum in Columbia, Tennessee is all that remains of two famous girl schools (the other being the Columbia Female Institute) that flourished from the 1830s until the Great Depression. Built in 1837 by Master Builder Nathan Vaught for Samuel Polk Walker, the Athenaeum served as the rectory for these two schools and was occupied by the same family for over 130 years. Today, the Athenaeum is a historic site and museum open for tours and available as a venue for your next event. Hours: Thursday through Saturday 10am to 4pm Open by appointment Monday through Wednesday