Columbia: Then & Now

Known as The Capital of Southern Hospitality, Columbia is the largest city in the U.S. state of South Carolina. Approved as the new state capital on March 22, 1786, the emerged as a cotton hub by the time it was destroyed by during General William Tecumseh Sherman's March to the Sea. By the early 20th century, the city re-emerged as a regional textile manufacturing center. During this era, downtown's Main Street developed as a hub of commerce, large hotels, banks and department stores. Anchored by the South Carolina Statehouse and the University of South Carolina, urban Columbia is reaping the economic benefits of revitalization partially due to its unique architecture, history and sense of place. Here's a brief look at how the streets of downtown Columbia, South Carolina have gracefully aged over the years.

Then: Looking north at Main Street from the South Carolina State Capitol. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.

2016

Then: The intersection of Gervais and Assembly Streets. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.

2016

Then: The Consolidated Building at 1328 North Main Street. Completed in 1912, the Consolidated Building has an intricately detailed glazed and colored terra cotta facade that is unique in Columbia. It is constructed of polychrome terra cotta and has a cartouche containing the date of construction above the central window. On the far sides of the building are colonettes with a geometrical design. An elaborate decorative frieze features fleur-de-lis motif with overhanging section with trefoils. The parapet contains the word “Consolidated” and has pierced quatrefoils. The awnings and balcony over the central doorway were removed and Jackson Camera Center once occupied the right storefront. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.

2016

Then: Belk on Main Street. Courtesy of the John Hensel Photograph Collection and University of South Carolina.

2016

Then:

2016

Article by Ennis Davis, AICP