Are you curious about the history and fun facts of Columbia, SC? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into the Columbia housing market, this city is full of hidden gems and interesting tidbits that are sure to pique your interest. From its role in the hot air balloon flight history to the unusual outdoor ice hockey game, Columbia has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. On the other hand, its reputation as the “Soda City” and the site of the world’s largest boiled peanut statue are just a few of the fun facts that make this city so unique for those looking to move into a new house or condo in Columbia. Keep reading to discover some fun, historical facts that will help you get to know Columbia, SC a little better.
1. You can stay the night at some of Columbia’s oldest, historic buildings
“Hotel Trundle, Columbia’s first independently owned boutique hotel, resides inside three historic buildings dating back to 1914,” shares Hotel Trundle Columbia. “The unique boutique hotel pays homage to the historical details of the property with an eclectic combination of new age and retro design.”
Your future home is just a tap away
Explore homes with the Redfin app anytime, anywhere.
2. Columbia has a mysterious, mythical lake monster
Your future home is just a tap away
“Have you heard of the Lake Murray Monster Lake Murray is known for its clear blue water and top-notch fishing, which attracts professional fishing tournaments and anglers from all over the world,” says Capital City Lake Murry Country. “In April of 1936, the Lake Murray Monster, a 298 pound sturgeon, became trapped in the shallows of the confluence of the Broad and Saluda Rivers. It took four men to wrestle the monster to shore. After being photographed at the Saluda County Jail, the fish was taken to the Columbia Ice House and put on display. Folks came from all around to see the Lake Monster. To date, the Lake Murray Monster remains the largest fish caught by any means, inland in South Carolina.”
3. Columbia is the mustard BBQ capital of the world
“Columbia is famous for its mustard-based barbecue. In fact, you’ll find mustard sauce served at all but two of the barbecue joints in the Columbia area,” says Destination-BBQ.com. “In addition, Columbia offers two distinct styles of sauce: a sweeter, balanced sauce like you’ll find at Maurice’s Piggie Park and one that’s strong on yellow mustard flavor like that served at Hite’s Bar-B-Que.”
4. Columbia is known as “Soda City”
Columbia is known as the “Soda City” because of its many soda fountains and its history as a hub of the soft drink industry. Columbia has a long history of being a major player in the soft drink industry, dating back to the early 20th century when a Coca-Cola bottling plant in the state was established in the city. Today, Columbia is home to several unique soda fountains and craft soda makers, making it a great destination for anyone who loves sweet, bubbly drinks. The city’s nickname “Soda City” reflects its connection to this industry and the pride it takes in its unique “cola”, a.k.a Columbia, culture.
5. The city was once home to the world’s largest fire hydrant
The city is also home to the world’s largest fire hydrant, which stands at 39 feet tall and weighs 6,750 pounds. The giant fire hydrant was installed in 2001 in front of the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park as part of an effort to beautify the city and promote public art. The hydrant is not actually functional, but it was once a beloved landmark and a popular spot for photo ops, until the beginning of 2023, when it was put in storage. The fire hydrant’s bright colors and whimsical design make it a unique and eye-catching addition to the city’s landscape.
6. The world’s first recorded hot air balloon flight took place in Columbia
Columbia was the site of the world’s first recorded hot air balloon flight, which took place in 1784. The flight was conducted by French brothers Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier, who had developed the technology for hot air balloons. The Montgolfiers demonstrated their invention in Columbia, in front of a large crowd of spectators who were amazed by the sight of a hot air balloon rising into the sky. Today, Columbia celebrates its place in aviation history with several monuments and events dedicated to the Montgolfier brothers and their pioneering flight.
7. The “World’s Largest Boiled Peanut”
The city is home to the “World’s Largest Boiled Peanut” statue, which stands at 10 feet tall and weighs over 1,000 pounds. Boiled peanuts are a Southern delicacy, and Columbia takes its love of this snack food to a whole new level with its giant boiled peanut statue. The statue, which was installed in 2009, is made from fiberglass and depicts a giant peanut in a boiling pot. It has become a popular photo spot for tourists and a quirky symbol of the city’s love of boiled peanuts.
8. Columbia was named after Christopher Columbus
Columbia was named after Christopher Columbus, but it was almost named “Washington” after George Washington. When the city was founded in 1786, its founders chose the name “Columbia” to honor the explorer Christopher Columbus. However, there was some debate about the name, and some members of the state legislature argued that the city should be named after George Washington instead. Ultimately, the name “Columbia” stuck.
9. Columbia Inferno brought hockey to the heart of the city
The city is home to the Columbia Inferno, a minor league ice hockey team that once played a game on an outdoor rink in the middle of Main Street, in downtown Columbia. The Columbia Inferno was a professional ice hockey team that played in the ECHL from 2001 to 2008. In 2007, the team made headlines when it played an outdoor game against the Charlotte Checkers in the middle of Main Street. The game was a huge success, with thousands of fans turning out to watch the action. While the Columbia Inferno no longer plays, the team’s legacy lives on, and the city continues to support a thriving sports culture. Today, the Inferno team no longer plays in Columbia. These days locals are sporting the Columbia Fireflies MLB team during the season.
10. The South Carolina State House is a shining symbol of resilience
The South Carolina State House has a unique feature – a giant copper dome that was added in the 20th century to replace the original wooden dome, which was destroyed in a fire. The South Carolina State House is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Columbia, and its copper dome is a major reason why. The dome, which stands 180 feet tall, was added in 1903 to replace the original wooden dome, which was destroyed in a fire in 1865. Today, the dome is a symbol of the state’s resilience and its commitment to progress and innovation.
11. Columbia has rich architectural heritage
Columbia is home to the world’s largest collection of Robert Mills-designed buildings, including the South Carolina State House and the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Robert Mills was a prominent architect and engineer who designed several important buildings and monuments in the United States, including the South Carolina State House and the Washington Monument. Columbia is proud to be home to several of Mills’ most significant works, and visitors to the city can see these historic buildings up close and learn about the architect’s life and legacy.
12. The Columbia Marionette Theatre brings the city puppetry magic
The city is home to the Columbia Marionette Theatre, a puppet theater that has been entertaining audiences since 1988. The Columbia Marionette Theatre is a unique cultural attraction that offers performances featuring beautifully crafted marionettes. The theater has a loyal following, and its shows are popular for all ages. The Columbia Marionette Theatre is a testament to the city’s commitment to the arts and its dedication to preserving and promoting cultural traditions.
13. Columbia has some of the best savory southern food
Columbia is known for its vibrant food scene, with many unique local dishes like “chicken bog,” a rice and chicken dish, and “pimento cheese,” a spread made from cheese and peppers that is a southern favorite. Columbia is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants and eateries serving up delicious cuisine from around the world. However, the city is particularly proud of its local dishes, which reflect the region’s rich culinary history and its love of bold flavors and hearty fare. Whether you’re a fan of classic Southern cooking or international cuisine, Columbia is sure to have something to satisfy your appetite.
United States
Canada