Columbia (South Carolina)

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In the early 18th century, a trading post flourished in the area, where present-day Columbia is situated. In 1786, the site was chosen for South Carolina's new state capital because of its central location. The state legislature first met in its new quarters in 1790. During the Civil War, on 17 February 1865, General Sherman's army entered Columbia and the entire city was burned by drunken Union soldiers that same night.

Some of Columbia's original buildings survived, but most of the city dates from after 1865. Construction of the statehouse was begun in 1855, but it was damaged in the 1865 fire and not completed until 1901. Another notable building is President Woodrow Wilson's boyhood home, which dates from 1870. There are several antebellum houses in the vicinity. Also of interest are the South Carolina Archives Building, the Columbia Museum of Art and Science, the Midlands Exposition Park, with its historical exhibits and the zoo.

Columbia is an important educational center. It is the seat of the University of South Carolina, Benedict College, Columbia College, Allen University and Columbia International University. It is the largest city in South Carolina and an important trade and commercial center, serving a fertile farm region. Its industries include boatbuilding and the manufacture of electric equipment, paper and metal products, stainless steel and apparel. Not far from town is U.S. Fort Jackson, a major infantry training center. Lake Murray, which was formed after the damming of the Saluda River is also nearby.

There are many hotels and restaurants in Columbia. The city is in central South Carolina, at the head of navigation on the Congaree River, 665 km southwest from Washington D.C.