Historical Markers in
Columbia County, Pennsylvania

100-106 West Main Street 111 West Main Street 118 East Main Street 128 West Main Street 134-140 East Main Street 142-144 West Main Street 225 Market Street 235 Market Street 246 West Main Street 259 West Main Street 261 West Main Street 317 Market Street 325 Market Street 401 Market Street 419 Market Street 445-447 Market Street 56-64 East Main Street 9/11 Memorial Berwick Founder, Settlers, and Pioneers Beth Israel Congregation Carver Hall Catawissa Friends Meeting Columbia County Columbia County Courthouse David Jewett Waller Edith Emaline Orvis Evan Owen First Presbyterian Church Fishing Creek Confederacy Fort Jenkins Fort McClure Fort Wheeler Gene Harvey Grand Carousel Jackson Mansion Japanese Split Beech Pursel Store Building Replica of the Statue of Liberty Replica of the Statue of Liberty Saint Paul's Episcopal Church Stuart Tank Swimming Hole The Newest Old Covered Bridge War Hero Memorial Pinery War Memorial Wesley United Methodist Church World War II Memorial World War Memorial Wyoming Path
Pennsylvania was once home to a giant freshwater mussel called the Pennsylvania pigtoe, which is now considered endangered.
Pennsylvania random facts
Sure! Columbia County, PA has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1813. The county was named after Christopher Columbus and was originally part of Northumberland County. It became its own separate entity due to the growing population and the need for more local governance.

The county's early history was closely tied to the development of the iron industry. Numerous iron furnaces and forges were established in the area, taking advantage of the county's ample supply of timber, limestone, and iron ore. The iron industry brought prosperity to the region, attracting new settlers and creating jobs. However, by the mid-19th century, the industry began to decline due to changing market demands and the depletion of natural resources.

As the iron industry declined, other industries, such as agriculture and manufacturing, became more prominent in Columbia County. The fertile soil of the area allowed for successful farming, and the county became known for its dairy production. The rise of manufacturing saw the establishment of factories and mills, including textile mills and sawmills, which brought further economic growth to the county.

Columbia County also played a significant role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century. The county's location, along the Susquehanna River and near the border with slave-holding states, made it an important stop for escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. Many abolitionists in the county provided assistance and safe passage to these individuals, contributing to the fight against slavery.

In more recent history, Columbia County has evolved into a diverse community, with a mix of industrial, agricultural, and residential areas. Today, it continues to thrive with its thriving businesses, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage that showcases the county's vibrant history.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Columbia County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1813 - Columbia County is formed from parts of Northumberland County.
  • 1818 - Bloomsburg is established as the County Seat.
  • 1824 - The first courthouse is built in Bloomsburg.
  • 1841 - The Catawissa Railroad, the first chartered railroad in Pennsylvania, is completed.
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Columbia County serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1881 - The first telephone service is introduced in the county.
  • 1892 - The first electric streetcar begins operation in Bloomsburg.
  • 1903 - The Catawissa Creek flood causes significant damage in the county.
  • 1919 - The Bloomsburg Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in Pennsylvania, is first held.
  • 1937 - The Columbia County Historical Society is established.
  • 1940s-1950s - Many young men from the county serve in World War II and the Korean War.
  • 1960s-1970s - Columbia County experiences suburbanization and population growth.
  • 2011 - A record-breaking flood hits the region, causing widespread damage.