COLUMBIA, S.C., Friday, Sept. 23, 2016 —Historic Happy Hour tour returns to Five Points! Join Historic Columbia for a guided walking tour and explore Columbia’s original village neighborhood from 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30.
What originally began as a trolley hub for Columbia’s first planned suburban neighborhood has evolved into one of the capital city’s most popular entertainment, shopping and dining districts. The tour will begin at the Five Points Fountain, at the corner of Greene and Harden streets, and will make multiple stops throughout the district, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Park, the location of what was once the A&P Grocery Store (now Men’s Warehouse), the original location that propelled Five Points’ music scene (now Jake’s of Columbia) and other historical spots.
“This popular tour highlights the rich history and architecture of Five Points,” said James Quint, Historic Columbia’s director of education. “We will explore the role the district played in transforming this area into the entertainment hub it is today.”
While on the tour, participants will also be able to see the location of Five Points’ future Centennial Plaza, which recently broke ground as the culminating effort of Five Points’ Centennial Year. Once completed, the plaza will house a water feature and a special tribute to Vietnam veteran and prisoner of war Colonel Jack Van Loan. This beautification project is slated to open by Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11.
Tour admission includes beverages and appetizers along the way (participants must be 21 or older to enjoy adult beverages).Tours are $20 for Historic Columbia members and $25 for the general public. Reservations are recommended, as tours tend to sell out. Walk-up registrations will only be accepted if space permits. Visit historiccolumbia.org, call 803.252.1770 ext. 23 or email [email protected]for more information and to purchase tickets.
About Historic Columbia:In November 1961, a small group of individuals intent on saving the Ainsley Hall Housefrom demolition officially incorporated as the Historic Columbia Foundation. Over the next five decades the organization, which was founded on the premise of preservation and education, would take on the stewardship of seven historic properties in Richland County. Today, the organization serves as a model for local preservation efforts and interpretation of local history. Visit historiccolumbia.org or find us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube for more details.
