Columbia SC: At first glance

Day 229

A couple of days have gone by and we have yet to go see downtown Columbia. Today we are going to change that. This will be a quick trip to check out some drive by attractions. The first stop on the list is Columbia Canal Riverfront park. This cool little place has kept part of old Columbia in tact. It pays homage to the canal and the life it brought the city. During the mid 1800's the pump house was built with two large steam engines. They pumped water up to the residents on the hill. Then at the the end of the century a hydroelectric dam was built that is still in operation today. Neat.

The dam below consists of local rock and brick made across the street. It's currently under renovation to become open to the general public.

Adding to the history is the Gervais street bridge. Built in 1928, it replaced the wooden bridge tha stood before it. Prior to the the Congaree River had a wooden bridge that was burnt down by confederate troops during the civil war. It was an effort to stop the Union from pouring into the city streets and taking over. Ultimately, it proved to be unsuccessful. 

Next on the list of drive by tours is the city capital building. We have found these grounds to prove themselves unique and full of history. It may be a bit on the dull side for most, but it is free and that is what draws us to these spots. Columbia has a beautifully landscaped capitol square. Looking out in all directions are buildings new and old. Things here are very well kept and the streets are clean.

Turning around 180° gives us the view of this granite behemoth. The doors are locked and there will be no exploring today. That's OK. Our afternoon has slipped past us and we are ready to go home for the day. Tomorrow we'll come back and check this thing out.

Just a minute. Katie has two more things marked on the map to see and they are only a couple of minutes away. I guess we can make a quick drive by and see these oddities. Anyone need to see a mural of a tunnel painted on a building?

Not good enough for you. How about the world's largest fire hydrant across the street? Gaze at it in wonder. This is how to live life folks. Life on the road.