The Forest Hills Neighborhood Association

History

The History of Forest Hills

The origins of the Forest Hills Neighborhood date back to 1859 when Wade Hampton III purchased 100 acres outside the City of Columbia and built a country home on the west side of present day Westminster Drive.  A stone pillar commemorates the home site, then known as Diamond Hill, on the island at the intersection of Westminster and Stratford Roads. The home was destroyed by Union troops in 1865.

Benjamin L. Abney purchased the property from the Hampton estate and built the home still standing at 1400 Westminster Drive, renaming the area Abney Park. That home is the oldest in the neighborhood.

Read more about Forest Hills history here.

See all the historic landmarks in Richland County.

Watch your neighbor’s back!

Vandals look for opportunity, including signs of vacancy.  If you are traveling during the upcoming weeks, make sure you have someone pick up your mail, newspaper, and other delivered items daily.  If you've ordered something, consider using the Fedex or UPS alternate delivery features to hold the package or send it elsewhere. Look out for each other. It's the very best protection. Or get a big dog. For more tips, visit our security page.

Meet your Forest Hills officers, area representatives & committee leaders

If you have questions about various aspects of the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association officers and area representatives click here. Your committee leaders are listed here.

Great resource for pet owners!

If you have lost or found a pet, a great place to report this is on the Chasing the Tails Pet Patrol Facebook page. They have great success in reuniting pets and owners.