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Spotlight:
Local Historical Sites & Museums Columbia’s storied history is celebrated by several local museums and historical sites.
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olumbia Historic Preservation Society, 19-21 N. Second St., is dedicated to the preservation of this river town. The society’s collections include articles and books on the town’s history, as well as artifacts, a research room, and a microfilm collection. Columbia Historic Preservation Society also presents special events throughout the year, including Columbia Railroad Day in May, Albatwitch Day in October, and the Ed King Memorial Model Train Open House events in December and January. Another must-see stop for serious and casual history buffs alike is Columbia’s Mount Bethel Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place of many persons who played key roles in Columbia's history. Mount Bethel Cemetery dates back to 1730, and more than 10,000 individuals have been laid to rest in the 10-acre property. Names of members of Columbia's founding families, such as the Wrights, Blunstons, Houstons, and Barbers, occupy the memorials in the Brick Burial Yard, which is the oldest section of the cemetery. Three mausoleums stand out on the grounds, one of which belongs to prominent Columbia businessman William Fordney Lockard. The historic cemetery hosts special events, including various art-related events and also The Last Ride, a vehicle show featuring vintage and specialty hearses, flower cars, limousines, ambulances, and other service vehicles. To learn more about the cemetery, visit www.mtbethelcemetery.com/. Continued on page 8
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