Originally built between 1819 and 1824 the Columbia Canal stretched 3 miles in downtown Columbia, SC and served freight ships passing the head of Congaree River until the railroads came about 20 years later. In 1863 a portion of the canal was leased to the Confederate Government for use with a powder mill that was burned by Sherman in 1865 and in 1888 the canal was reconstructed to be used as a source of hydro-electricity. In 1895 the Columbia Canal provided electricity to a textile mill that became the first hydro-electrically powered textile mill in the world.
To say that there is a lot of history here would certainly be something of a colossal understatement on my part.
Now in addition to the significant history still quite visible in the older buildings throughout the grounds and the of course the canal itself, The Columbia Canal has once again been transformed. This time though, the canal has become a part of Riverfront Park, a beautiful green area that allows visitors to walk along the canal itself and the Congaree River that stretches along the other side of the park.
Among green areas and bridges you will find great views of the river as it disappears into the heart of Columbia, SC. There are various statues and works of art along the grounds that are dedicated to various causes such as victims of crimes in South Carolina.
There is a wide variety of events held at Riverfront Park throughout the year. Everything from concerts to weekly happy hour events. But sometimes the best thing to do is just explore the park itself. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, a quick jog, or skate you are welcome to enjoy yourself seven days a week along the waterfront.
If none of this sounds appealing to you, then maybe the outdoor workout area would be up your alley. Fishing is allowed both in the canal and of course the river which is accessible from several areas throughout the park. A South Carolina fishing license is required of course. So if you have some time and you'd like to get out of the house for a while, try Riverfront Park in downtown Columbia, SC.
52 Saturdays is a series of blogs written by JL Boney, about sights, points of interest, and things to do throughout the Greater Columbia, SC Area. It is meant to inspire you to explore everything we have to offer. So get out there and enjoy yourself. If you like what you see and what more info about previous articles or would like to make suggestion, please feel free to contact me at 803-730-9601 or email at James_Boney@yahoo.com. If you would like to call Columbia, SC or any of the surrounding areas home, I have you covered there too. Please visit Columbia, SC Homes for Sale and start your home search.
52 Saturdays - Week 1 - Doko Meadows
52 Saturdays - Week 2 - Edventure Children's Museum
52 Saturdays - Week 3 - Frankie's Fun Park
52 Saturdays - Week 4 - Colonial Life Arena
52 Saturdays - Week 5 - Congaree National Park
52 Saturdays - Week 6 - SC State Musuem in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - week 7 - Plex Indoor Sports in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 8 - Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 9 - The Children's Garden in Northeast Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 10 - Fortune Springs Park in Winnsboro, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 11 - Spirit Communications Park in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 12 - West Columbia Riverwalk in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 13 - The SC State House in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 14 - Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 15 - Midlands Plant and Flower Festival
52 Saturdays - Week 16 - North Springs Park in Northeast Columbia, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 17 - Mt. Zion in Winnsboro, SC
52 Saturdays - Week 18 - Sandhill Research and Education Center
52 Saturdays - Week 19 - The Village at Sandhill in Columbia, SC
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