History

Muscogee County was acquired from Creek Indian territory in 1826 and was the 69th county established. The county is named for the Muscogee Indians, whose family included the Creek and Seminoles.

Columbus-Muscogee County was Georgia's first consolidated city-county government. Bibb City is a small enclave within Columbus that was created as a mill village.

The last land battle of the Civil War was fought at Columbus, one week after General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox.

Points of Interest

Fort Benning Military Reservation encompasses the southeastern part of the county. The base is one of the area's largest employers.

Noteworthy historical sites in the county include: the Springer Opera House, built in 1871, which is now the State Theater of Georgia; the Columbus Museum; the Confederate Naval Museum; and the Columbus Historical District which includes the Columbus Ironworks, built in 1853.

The newest point of interest in Columbus is the South Commons Complex, a collection of sports facilities in one location. The centerpiece of the complex is the Columbus Civic Center. Opened in 1996, this 10,000 seat venue is a true multi-purpose facility. It is home to the Columbus Cottonmouths hockey team.

Notable Citizens

Robert Winship Woodruff, a noted industrialist and philanthropist from Muscogee County, became the president of the Coca-Cola Company at the age of 33. Dr. John Pemberton, the inventor of the Coke formula, also lived in Columbus.

Higher Education

Columbus State University, Columbus Technical College and Troy State University at Ft. Benning

Annual Events

The three major events that are hosted by Columbus-Muscogee are the Riverfest in April, Uptown Jam in October and the Festival of Holidays that begins in late November.

Springer Opera House, Columbus

Columbus River Walk