Story Ideas
Columbus appreciates the important role media
professionals play in bringing the colorful history and modern
progress of the city to life in the eyes of visitors around the
world. We want to serve you in your research in any way
possible.
Examine some of our top story suggestions or contact us directly for
whatever assistance you need.
A Distinctive Destination
The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Columbus,
Mississippi one of its 2008 Dozen Distinctive Destinations. The
birthplace of prize-winning playwright, Tennessee Williams,
Columbus is home to three National Register Historic Districts that
boast an impressive 676 properties.
Columbus: One of America's 'Distinctive Destinations'
On February 7, 2008, the National Trust for Historic
Preservation named Columbus, Mississippi one of its 2008 Dozen
Distinctive Destinations. "Columbus will undoubtedly surprise you
with its diverse and abundant cultural resources," said Richard
Moe, president of the National Trust. "As one of the best kept
secrets in the state of Mississippi, it is an unrivaled destination
for anyone who enjoys Southern architecture, savors down-home
cooking, and seeks an escape to the great outdoors."
The Writer
The Tennessee Williams Home & Welcome Center is the first
home of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tennessee Williams. The
author made history with well-known plays such as A Streetcar Named
Desire, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and The Glass Menagerie.
National Trust Leadership Training
James Tsismanakis of the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau
is among a select group of participants attending an upcoming
program designed for community leaders in positions to influence
preservation activities in their states, regions, towns and
neighborhoods. The week-long program takes place June 20-27 in
Deadwood, S.D. In addition to classroom sessions, participants will
study issues related to locations in the Deadwood community and
develop proposals to outline optimal uses for buildings and
contribute to the vitality of that community.
Decoration Day
Columbus, Mississippi, served as a hospital town during the
American Civil War. While other cities were ravaged during the
Civil War, Columbus' service to preserving life aided in the
preservation of its antebellum and Victorian homes. While many of
the casualties from strategic battles, such as Shiloh, were brought
to Columbus for recovery, thousands suffered mortal wounds and were
buried in the town's historic Friendship Cemetery.
Arts & Architecture
Columbus, Mississippi boasts three National Register Districts
with around 676 properties. The area also boasts one of the
greatest concentrations of nineteenth-century residential
structures in the state, a virtually complete record of American
building styles from the 1820s through the 1900s. Additionally,
there are significant examples of the adaptations and combinations
of architectural designs which are unique to Columbus, known as
"Columbus Eclectic".