Series offers an in-depth look at Columbia’s ties to the nation’s military legacy
COLUMBIA, S.C., Monday, Oct. 24, 2016 — Historic Columbia’s Remembering Columbia series returns in November for a three-part installment that will provide an insider’s look into the rich past and present of the capital city’s military tradition.
“Columbia historically has had deep ties to the nation’s military,” said John Sherrer, Historic Columbia’s director of cultural resources. “We will explore this legacy in greater detail through a host of historical materials, including images, maps and memories.”
The Remembering Columbia sessions will take place from noon – 1 p.m. on Nov. 1, 8 and 15 at the Robert Mills Carriage House, located at 1616 Blanding St. in downtown Columbia. Guests are encouraged to attend each session of this dynamic series, as every session will cover completely new and different material that help tell the complete story of the series.
Upcoming Remembering Columbia Sessions:
Session 1: Comradery & Conflict, Duty & Honor: Columbia, 1800-1898
- Date: Tuesday, Nov. 1, noon – 1 p.m.
- Overview: From the Mexican-American War to the Spanish-American War, Columbia’s soldiers fought in every major conflict and their experiences later shaped the path of the city’s development. Participants will learn more about local military units, including those that fought in the Civil War and businesses that played a role in war efforts such as the Palmetto Armory and Camp Sorghum.
Session 2: How the Military Shaped a Modern Southern City (Part 1): Columbia, World War I and its Aftermath
- Date: Tuesday, Nov. 8, noon – 1 p.m.
- Overview: This program will explore Columbia during World War I and the establishment of Camp Jackson 100 years ago. The city itself changed immensely, particularly for African Americans including the experience of veterans returning to Columbia. Many, who had experienced freedoms abroad not enjoyed upon their return, went on to join students at the historically black colleges in Columbia engaged in early civil rights protests. This program is part of World War I and America, a two-year national initiative of The Library of America presented in partnership with The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the National World War I Museum and Memorial, and other organizations, with generous support from The National Endowment for the Humanities.
Session 3: How the Military Shaped a Modern Southern City (Part 2): Columbia, World War II and Beyond
- Date: Tuesday, Nov. 15, noon – 1 p.m.
- Overview: This session will explore Fort Jackson, the largest army basic-training base in the country. The enlargement of Fort Jackson during World War II and its designation as a permanent military facility have ensured its role in shaping Columbia’s history. Columbia was transformed during World War II when soldiers from Fort Jackson, Columbia Army Airfield, and other places filled USO clubs and dance halls. The stories of local businesses and residents show life on the home front during the war.
Tickets to attend the entire three-part series are $20 per member and $24 per non-member. Admission for individual sessions are also available: Nov. 1 ($10 per member and $12 per non member), Nov. 8 (Free, thanks to a grant from World War I and America) and Nov. 15 ($10 per member and $12 per non member). Advance reservation is encouraged. Visit historiccolumbia.org to purchase tickets.
About Historic Columbia:
In November 1961, a small group of individuals intent on saving the Ainsley Hall House from 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.
