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Columbia, Missouri

Welcome to Columbia, a vibrant heartland city that beautifully blends academic excellence with a lively arts and culture scene. As the proud home of the University of Missouri—the first public university established west of the Mississippi River—our community thrives on innovation and a rich intellectual spirit. From our bustling downtown to our verdant parks, Columbians cherish our unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it a truly special place to call home.
Founded 1821 | Population 115,276 | Peak 115,276 (2024) | County Boone County

Top Events in Columbia, Missouri

1
1821 Town Platted: Township surveyed and established, setting the foundation for future growth.
2
1839 University Founded: Missouri's flagship university established, shaping the city's identity.
3
1890 Academic Hall Fire: Devastating fire destroyed Mizzou's main hall, creating iconic Columns.
4
1959 I-70 Completed: Interstate 70 finished through Columbia, connecting city to major routes.
5
2004 True/False Film Fest: Inaugural independent film festival launched, boosting cultural scene.
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Historical Timeline of Columbia

1821 Government
City Platted
1826 Government
City Incorporated
1839 Education
University of Missouri Founded
1890 Event
Academic Hall Fire
1901 Transport
First Electric Streetcars
1959 Transport
Interstate 70 Completed
1974 Transport
Columbia Regional Airport Opens
2004 Culture
True/False Film Fest Begins

Did You Know? — Columbia

1
Columbia is known for the 'Missouri Method' of journalism, where students learn by doing at professional media outlets.
2
The city is home to the MKT Trail, a popular rails-to-trails project connecting parks and nature areas.
3
The historic Francis Quadrangle at the University of Missouri is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
4
Columbia was once home to the first kindergarten west of the Mississippi River, established at Christian Female College (now Columbia College).
5
Columbia is often affectionately called 'CoMo' by locals, a popular shorthand for the city's name.
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Famous People from Columbia, Missouri

JC
Jessica Capshaw
Actor, Television Actor · Born Aug 9, 1976 · Age 49
CP
Carlos PenaVega
Actor, Singer · Born Aug 15, 1989 · Age 36
MJ
Michael Porter Jr.
Basketball Player · Born Jun 29, 1998 · Age 27
SK
Stan Kroenke
Entrepreneur, Director · Born Jul 29, 1947 · Age 78
RB
Rob Benedict
Screenwriter, Actor · Born Sep 21, 1970 · Age 55

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