History of Columbia

The city of Columbia was founded in 1786 as the new capital of the state of South Carolina. It was one of the first planned cities in the USA, and its location was the result of a political compromise. Its establishment in the geographic center of the state was intended to smooth over disagreements between influential planters from the coast and farmers from the interior regions.

Key factors in the city's development were its political status and advantageous geographical position. Its location on the Congaree River, at the point where it becomes navigable, turned Columbia into an important transport and trade hub. This facilitated rapid growth, especially due to the development of railway connections in the 1840s, which were used to transport the region's main export commodity — cotton.

Columbia's early economy was almost entirely focused on the cultivation and trade of cotton, which defined its prosperity in the antebellum period. The University of South Carolina, founded here in 1801, became an important cultural and educational center. The city's architectural appearance was initially formed according to a strict plan with wide streets, which is still noticeable in its central part today.

Key Milestones in Columbia's History

The history of Columbia is a journey from a carefully planned capital to a modern metropolis, marked by important events that have shaped its current appearance.

• 1786 — Foundation of the city as the new, centrally located capital of the state of South Carolina by decision of the General Assembly.
• 1790 — The state legislature meets in Columbia for the first time, solidifying the city's status as the capital.
• 1801 — South Carolina College opens, later becoming the University of South Carolina and the state's main educational center.
• 1805 — Columbia receives town status and elects its first leader — Intendant John Taylor.
• 1842 — The launch of railway services significantly accelerates the city's economic development, simplifying the transport of cotton.
• 1854 — Columbia officially receives city status; the office of mayor is established, and a city council is formed.
• 1860 — A convention is held at the First Baptist Church, initiating the process of South Carolina's secession from the Union.
• 1865 — In February, during the Civil War, General Sherman's troops occupy the city, leading to fires that destroyed a significant part of Columbia.
• 1894 — The Columbia Mills textile factory opens, becoming the first in the world to be fully powered by hydroelectricity; the building now houses the South Carolina State Museum.
• 1917 — Camp Jackson is created to train soldiers for World War I; it eventually evolves into Fort Jackson — the largest basic training center for the US Army.
• 1951 and 1964 — Columbia receives the prestigious "All-American City" title, including recognition for the peaceful implementation of desegregation in 1964.
• 1963 — The first African American students are enrolled at the University of South Carolina, marking an important step in the civil rights movement.

A New Era for Columbia: 20th and 21st Century Milestones

The second half of the 20th century opened a new chapter for Columbia, shifting focus from traditional industries to economic diversification, urban renewal, and cultural development. These modern milestones definitively shaped the city we see today — a dynamic center of education, innovation, and the arts.

• Economic Diversification (Second half of the 20th century). The post-war period was marked by a gradual move away from dependence on the textile industry. The city actively began developing sectors in public administration, healthcare, insurance, and education, transforming into a multi-profile economic hub. Major enterprises in electronics and pharmaceuticals appeared, as well as bank headquarters, strengthening the region's financial stability.
• Growth of the University of South Carolina (1980s — Present). From a regional college, the university transformed into a major national research center. Its growth fostered innovation, particularly in international business, where its programs are recognized as some of the best in the USA. The campus became a vital center of cultural and social life, and the university itself became one of the key employers and engines of the city's economy.
• Revitalization of the Center: "The Congaree Vista" Project (1980s — 2000s). This ambitious project transformed a former district of warehouses and railway tracks into one of the city's liveliest quarters. Thanks to the renovation of historic buildings, The Vista became a center of cultural life, concentrating art galleries, theaters, unique shops, and popular restaurants. This successful example of urban renewal breathed new life into downtown Columbia.
• Development of Cultural Infrastructure (Late 20th — Early 21st century). During this period, key cultural facilities were built or modernized. The appearance of venues such as the Koger Center for the Arts, and the relocation of the Columbia Museum of Art to the bustling Main Street, highlighted the city's aspiration to become an important cultural hub of the region.
• Waterfront Improvement and Park Creation (21st century). One of the landmark modern projects was the development of the Congaree River waterfront zones. The creation of parks, such as Riverfront Park and Granby Park, provided residents and tourists with new spaces for recreation and festivals, harmoniously integrating nature into the urban environment.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of the city of Columbia represents a unique combination of Southern charm, strict classicism, and modern forms. As one of the first planned cities in the USA, it was designed with wide streets and a clear grid of blocks, which laid the foundation for its further development. The urban landscape clearly reflects the region's history: from antebellum mansions to the skyscrapers of the business center.

Historical eras can be clearly traced in the changing architectural styles that form the face of the city:

• Classicism and Greek Revival (19th Century). This period defined the monumental look of government buildings and old estates. The brightest example is the South Carolina State House, construction of which began in 1855. Its majestic columns and copper dome symbolize power and stability. Also noteworthy are the works of the famous architect Robert Mills, who designed the historic Robert Mills House.
• Gothic Revival (Mid-19th — Early 20th Century). The influence of this style is particularly noticeable in religious architecture. Trinity Episcopal Cathedral on Senate Street is a magnificent example of Gothic Revival, reminiscent of medieval English churches with its pointed arches and stained glass windows.
• Victorian Style and Eclecticism (Late 19th Century). After the Civil War, during the reconstruction period, residential areas were filled with richly decorated homes. In historic districts, one can find mansions with characteristic carved verandas and turrets, reflecting the tastes of the era.
• Modernism and Postmodernism (20th–21st Centuries). The modern silhouette of the city is formed by high-rise buildings. The Capitol Center — the tallest building in the state, built in 1987 — is a striking example of postmodernism, combining modern glazing with elements referencing classical forms. The University of South Carolina campus also demonstrates the evolution from historic buildings to bold modernist solutions.

An important role in the perception of the city is played by its districts. The Vista is an example of successful revitalization of industrial architecture, where old brick warehouses and railway terminals have been transformed into a cultural space with galleries and dining venues. The Main Street district demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of historic commercial buildings from the early 20th century and modern business developments.

Notable Figures Associated with Columbia

The city of Columbia, the capital of South Carolina, has been the birthplace or home to many outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to politics, the arts, sports, and public life. Here are some of them:

• Modjeska Monteith Simkins (1899–1992)
  Role: Civil rights activist, public health reformer.
  Significance: Born in Columbia, Simkins became one of the key figures in the fight for African American rights in South Carolina. She was a founder and secretary of the state branch of the NAACP and played an important role in the "Briggs v. Elliott" lawsuit, which became part of the historic "Brown v. Board of Education" case that ended segregation in schools.
• James Dickey (1923–1997)
  Role: Poet, novelist.
  Significance: Author of the famous novel "Deliverance", Dickey was one of the most influential American poets of his generation. From 1969 until the end of his life, he was a professor and writer-in-residence at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, having a huge impact on the literary life of the city and state.
• Stanley Donen (1924–2019)
  Role: Film director and choreographer.
  Significance: A native of Columbia, Stanley Donen became a legend of Hollywood's "Golden Age". He directed such iconic musical films as "Singin' in the Rain" and "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers", forever changing the genre and leaving an indelible mark on the history of world cinema.
• George Rogers (born 1958)
  Role: American football player.
  Significance: A legendary athlete who, while studying at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, won the Heisman Trophy in 1980 — the most prestigious individual award in college football. He was selected first overall in the 1981 NFL Draft and became a true icon for the city's sports fans.
• Aziz Ansari (born 1983)
  Role: Actor, comedian, screenwriter.
  Significance: Born and raised in Columbia. Ansari gained worldwide fame thanks to his role in the series "Parks and Recreation" and his own show "Master of None", for which he received several Emmy and Golden Globe awards.
• Anna Camp (born 1982)
  Role: Actress and singer.
  Significance: A native of Columbia, Anna Camp is known for her roles in Broadway productions and popular film projects. She gained widespread fame for the role of Aubrey Posen in the musical comedy franchise "Pitch Perfect", as well as for her work in the series "True Blood".