Columbia

Columbia is the county seat of Maury County in Tennessee, sitting on gentle hills near the Duck River at roughly 196 meters above sea level. Downtown consists of several blocks of 19th-century brick buildings, while residential areas spread in all directions.

The town was founded in 1808 near the Duck River and grew during the 19th century as a farming center, with cotton and tobacco as main crops. The February 1946 riots marked a turning point in the civil rights movement and were the first major confrontation after World War II.

The name Columbia comes from the early 19th century and belongs to a series of American place names referring to Christopher Columbus. Along Main Street stand several buildings in classical style, now used as shops and offices.

The Columbia Justice Center on North Main Street gathers several county administrative and court facilities under one roof. Public parking is available around the downtown area and makes walking easier.

The annual Mule Day in April draws several thousand visitors and celebrates the region's farming past with parades, contests, and handicrafts. The festival recalls the importance of mules in planting and harvesting before mechanization.

Location: Maury County

Inception: 1808

Elevation above the sea: 196 m

Website: http://columbiatn.com

GPS coordinates: 35.61502,-87.04446

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:11