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Exploring Columbia’s History

Columbia is definitely known for being progressive and modern, but there’s also so much history that you just don’t want to miss. Sometimes, it just takes looking a little closer at things, such as checking out the historic buildings that house the modern shops and galleries downtown. Then there’s the Walters-Boone County Historical Society and the historic columns on the University of Missouri campus that enrich Columbia as a destination with history. Not only are there historic places, but historic events as well. Here are a few highlights.

In the 1850’s, Columbia benefited from trade generated by the Santa Fe and Oregon Trails. The Missouri Kansas Texas (KATY) railroad spur further boosted Columbia’s growth. Today, the MKT trail spur connects Columbia to the Katy Trail State Park, the longest rails-to-trails conversion project in the United States. Today, the trails are traveled by thousands of visitors each year.

The Historic Francis Quadrangle on the MU Campus is the heart of the first land grant university in the former Louisiana Purchase territory. In addition to the columns of the original Academic Hall, travelers can visit Thomas Jefferson’s original grave-marker and a bronze sculpture of Jefferson. That’s just the start to the beautiful history the campus has to offer.

The Original "Blind" Boone Ragtime & Early Jazz Festival will be May 31-June 2 of 2009. The festival welcomes ragtime and jazz musicians from all over to headline along with seminars, tours and afterglows. This popular festival benefits various organizations committed to maintaining Boone’s legacy. In 1997, the John William Boone Heritage Folundation was formed with the goal of assisting the City of Columbia to acquire and preserve the home. On November 17, 2000, Columbia purchased the home, which is now being restored so visitors can learn more about this talented musician.

Sometimes it’s hard to remember how rich Columbia is with history. All it takes it a little exploring- a stroll through campus, a ragtime concert or a walk on the trail-to allow you to immerse yourself in both Columbia’s current beauty and its historic beginnings.

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