Columbia, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Developers are proposing to restore a 111-year-old infirmary in Columbia’s Five Points neighborhood, transforming it into housing while preserving its historical significance. Originally built in 1914, the infirmary played a crucial role in providing healthcare to African Americans during the Jim Crow era. The project includes restoring original architectural features and possibly adding duplexes behind the building to meet local housing needs.
Columbia is witnessing a significant proposal aimed at reviving a historic property that once served as a vital healthcare facility for the African American community. Developers have set their sights on restoring the 111-year-old infirmary located at 2101 Gervais Street in the Five Points neighborhood to address growing housing needs in the area.
The infirmary, opened in 1914 by physician W.D. Chappelle Jr., played a crucial role in healthcare during the Jim Crow era, providing essential medical services at a time when Black residents faced severe limitations in access to care. This historic building not only served as a medical facility but also as a communal resource for patients needing surgery, medications, and other essential services.
Plans for the project entail transforming the original infirmary structure into housing while making substantial efforts to restore its historical aesthetics. Key restoration activities will include reinstating the original window and door openings, refurbishing wooden windows, and removing modern stucco to reveal the building’s original brick facade. The developers have submitted an application to the city’s Design/Development Review Commission to gain approval for these plans.
In addition to the restoration of the infirmary, the project includes potential plans for the construction of 1-2 duplexes on a vacant lot situated behind the existing building. As part of this proposal, developers are seeking certification under the Bailey Bill, which offers tax abatements for historic properties that undergo restoration or rehabilitation.
The applicant for this revitalization project is Chandler Culbertson, who has been involved in previous developments, including the presentation of plans for three new apartment buildings in the Five Points area. While the city officials have been approached for comments regarding the project’s development and specifics of the application, there has been no response to date.
The journey of the infirmary from a crucial healthcare provider to its current state illustrates the challenges faced by historic buildings. After its closure as a medical facility, the building has been repurposed for various uses, including functioning as a florist, a barbershop, and, most recently, as office space. The recent proposal seeks to re-establish the infirmary’s significance to the community by transforming it into modern housing that still honors its rich history.
As Columbia continues to grow, the revival of this historic infirmary stands as an emblem of progress, addressing both housing needs and preserving the legacy of a critical health service that shaped the lives of many African American residents during a time of significant social need.
FAQ
- What is being proposed for the historic infirmary in Columbia?
- Developers are planning to restore the 111-year-old infirmary into housing, while preserving its historical appearance.
- When was the infirmary built and what was its significance?
- Built in 1914 during the Jim Crow era, the infirmary was critical in providing medical services to African Americans who had limited access to healthcare.
- What specific renovations are planned for the building?
- Renovations include restoring original window and door openings, refurbishing wood windows, and removing stucco to expose the original brick.
- Who is the developer behind this project?
- The applicant for the project is Chandler Culbertson, who has a history of presenting development plans in the Five Points neighborhood.
- Are there any additional structures planned as part of the project?
- Yes, the proposal mentions the potential construction of 1-2 duplexes on a lot behind the infirmary.
- What is the Bailey Bill, and how is it relevant to this project?
- The Bailey Bill offers tax abatements for the restoration of historic properties. The developers are seeking certification under this to support their project.
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 2101 Gervais Street, Columbia’s Five Points |
| Year Built | 1914 |
| Historical Significance | Served as an infirmary for the African American community during Jim Crow |
| Proposed Use | Conversion into housing |
| Restoration Plans | Restore original windows, doors, and brick facade |
| Additional Structures | 1-2 duplexes proposed behind the main building |
| Developer | Chandler Culbertson |
| Funding Support | Seeking tax abatements under the Bailey Bill |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- The Guardian: Columbia University Funding Trump’s Demands
- NY1: Plan to Downsize NewYork Presbyterian Columbia Rehab Unit
- The State: Columbia University News
- Livability: Maury Regional Health Launches Expansion
- New York Times: Columbia Research Grants and Trump
- Wikipedia: Columbia University
- Google Search: Columbia University
- Google Scholar: Columbia University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia University
- Google News: Columbia University
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