Rutledge College was the first first building to be erected at South Carolina College. At that time it served as Residence Hall, Lecture Hall, Chapel, Library, Faculty Housing and Laboratory. Rutledge College was named for John and Edward Rutledge, both Governors of South Carolina. In 1855 the building was destroyed by fire and rebuilt immediately. After the Civil War the east wing was used as quarters by the Federal Military commander of the Columbia District. During that time the Columbia Post Office and the Office of the State Treasurer were in the west wing and the House of Representatives met in the chapel. Today Rutledge College is used as a chapel and a residence hall and houses the Department of Religious Studies.