Remembering Columbia | Military Series

Columbia, S.C. historically has had deep ties to the nation’s military, and reminders of this legacy are prevalent throughout the capital city. Join Historic Columbia for another installment of its popular Remembering Columbiaseries in which this rich past (and present) is explored in greater detail. 

The Remember 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 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. 

TOPIC: COMRADERY & CONFLICT, DUTY & HONOR: COLUMBIA, 1800-1898

Date: Tuesday, Nov. 1, noon – 1 p.m.

Session 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. 

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.

TOPIC: 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.

Session 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.

TOPIC: HOW THE MILITARY SHAPED A MODERN SOUTHERN CITY (PART 2): COLUMBIA, WORLD WAR II AND BEYOND

Date: Tuesday, Nov. 15, noon – 1 p.m.

Session 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.