Columbia

Columbia is where residents immerse themselves in the past in everyday life. From its wealth of history, centennial homes and antique shops, time slows down in Columbia. This historic river town was established in 1727 along the banks of the Susquehanna River.

Jeffery Seibert, Broker with Keller William Elite, aptly describes Columbia as a place where families have lived for generations, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the community. But Columbia’s history extends beyond its residents; it was a pivotal stop on the Underground Railroad, with many of its historic homes still harboring hidden rooms and tunnels.

The borough’s grid-like design blends its turn-of-the-century homes with historic shops, creating a quaint, centralized atmosphere. With many of these structures built in the 19th century, these homes are adorned with elegant shingles and ornate facades, showcasing Victorian, Queen Anne and Italianate Styles. The Columbia Historic District contains many of these historic structures, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. You’ll find that prices in Columbia range from $145,000 for a three-bedroom row home to $230,000 for a historic four-bedroom. “Our prices are continuing to increase, and people are putting real money into restoring and preserving the historical integrity of our beautiful architecture,” Seibert says.

The Columbia Borough School District serves this community, boasting a score of an A in the diversity category, according to Niche. These schools include Park Elementary and Columbia High/Middle School Hill Campus, which offers a multitude of after-school recreation, including football, golf and even bowling. “The school district is a hidden aspect of the community because seventh through 12th graders share a building, and by the time you graduate, you’ll have made long-lasting friendships,” Seibert says.

Locust Street Park resonates with sweet melodies during Music in The Park, while Columbia Riverfront Park comes alive with local artisans selling handmade wares at markets. The park offers a boat launch and views of the Veterans Memorial Bridge connecting Columbia to Wrightsville. “There are a number of social clubs that take care of the community,” Seibert says. The Lions Club hosts Thunder on the River in June, celebrating antique cars from the 40s, 50s and 60s. “We also have First Fridays Downtown, where people shop with music and food trucks and just a good old time,” Seibert adds.

Columbia’s art and culture scene thrives in its historic downtown with local coffee shops, boutiques and art galleries. Hinkle’s Restaurant has been around for over a century, dishing out classic breakfast staples and their popular old-fashioned soda pop station and ice-cream counter. Columbia Kettle Works is a brewpub where residents come to experience live music, local brews and specialty pizzas. Columbia Markethouse is a weekly farmer’s market that has been running since 1869. Residents can conveniently access Weis Markets on Columbia Avenue when running low on essentials.

Living in Columbia, rummaging through antiques is sure to be your favorite hobby. Stop by Burning Bridge Antique Market, where you’ll get lost relics and refined furnishings. While Fragments of The Past breathes an air of nostalgia for its patrons, showcasing vintage video games and toys.

Aside from shopping, there’s a wealth of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Though time seemingly stands still in Columbia, stop by the National Watch and Clock Museum and explore their collection of clocks. The Turkey Hill Experience is also a local favorite, where visitors will learn all about the dairy industry. The Columbia Crossing River Trails Center is the 14-mile Northwest River Trail trailhead, following along the historic Pennsylvania Mainline Canal.

Living in Columbia, history is more than just a page out of a book; it’s a tangible everyday experience.

Written By

Hannah Rainey

Photography Contributed By

Danny Lambert

Video By

Grace Kim