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With a population of around 47,000 residents, Columbus is a midsized city located in Bartholomew County in southeastern Indiana. Known for its modernist architecture and commitment to public art, Columbus offers residents and visitors a high quality of life and vibrant local culture.

History

Columbus was platted in 1820 and founded as the county seat of Bartholomew County. It was named in honor of Christopher Columbus. Early growth was spurred by its location along the East Fork of the White River and transportation routes like the National Road. Columbus became an industrial hub in the late 1800s and early 1900s with manufacturers like the L. P. & B. S. E. Forbes Piano Company, Cummins Engine Company, and Arvin Industries.

Significant development occurred in the mid-20th century under the leadership of civic leader J. Irwin Miller, who recruited some of the world's top architects to design buildings in Columbus. This ushered in the city's reputation for modern architecture with works by renowned designers like Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei, Richard Meier, Kevin Roche, and Robert Venturi.

Population and Demographics

According to recent census estimates, Columbus has a population of 47,378 residents, making it the 8th largest city in Indiana. The racial makeup of the city is 88.1% White, 3.3% Black or African American, 0.3% Native American, 1.6% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 4.3% from other races, and 2.2% from two or more races. 7.5% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Economy and Major Employers

Some of the largest employers in Columbus include:
- Cummins Inc. (engines and power generation), www.cummins.com, 500 Jackson St, Columbus, IN 47201, (800) 888-6626
- Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (public schools), www.bcsc.k12.in.us, 1200 Central Ave, Columbus, IN 47201, (812) 376-4246
- Columbus Regional Health (healthcare), www.crh.org, 2400 East 17th St, Columbus, IN 47201, (812) 376-5000
- Enkei America (auto parts manufacturing), www.enkei.com, 2021 Anson Dr, Columbus, IN 47201, (812) 376-0771
- Toyota Industrial Equipment (auto manufacturing), www.toyotaforklift.com, 777 Post Rd, Columbus, IN 47201, (877) 363-6276

Other major industries in Columbus include finance, insurance, tourism, retail, healthcare, and education. The city serves as a regional center for manufacturing, business services, and shopping. Major recent investments include the 400-acre River Ridge Commerce Center industrial park.

Attractions and Landmarks

Columbus is renowned for its collection of modernist architecture, with over 60 buildings and pieces of public art designed by renowned architects. Major landmarks include:

Bartholomew County Courthouse

Built in 1872 and designed in the Second Empire style, the Bartholomew County Courthouse is located downtown at 234 Washington Street. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.

The Commons

Originally opened in 1973, The Commons is a shopping center designed by architect Cesar Pelli featuring brick towers, skylights, and outdoor gathering spaces. It is located at 300 Washington Street.

First Christian Church

Built in 1942, this church designed by Eliel and Eero Saarinen features a 192-foot tall spire and an asymmetrical design. It is located at 531 Fifth Street.

The Columbus Area Visitors Center provides more information on architecture tours and landmarks. See www.columbus.in.us/planning-department/columbus-area-visitors-center/ or call (812) 378-2622.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Columbus Museum of Art and Design

This museum located downtown features modern and contemporary art, including pieces by Indiana artists. See www.cumuseumanddesign.org or call (812) 376-9100.

Columbus Indiana Architectural Archives

Part of the Columbus Library, this archives collects and preserves documents related to the city's architectural history. See columbus.in.us/planning-department/architectural-archives/ or call (812) 379-1276.

Historic Henry Breeding House

Built in 1834, this historic house museum depicts life in the 19th century. It offers tours and educational programs. Located at 521 Fifth Street.

Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Columbus has an extensive parks system with over 700 acres of park land and 30 miles of trails. Major parks include:

Donner Park

Located downtown along the East Fork of the White River, Donner Park offers fishing, trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. See columbus.in.gov/department/division.php?fDD=8-0

Mill Race Park

Also located downtown on the East Fork of White River, this park features river access, trails, an amphitheater, and nature center. See columbus.in.gov/department/division.php?structureid=240

School Park

Home to the historic Columbus City Hall building, this downtown park offers tennis courts, trails, and open green space.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Columbus is provided by Columbus Indiana Transit (CIT). This bus system has six routes serving the Columbus area. More information at columbus.in.gov/department/division.php?fDD=14-124 or call (812) 376-9644.

Sports and Recreation

Popular recreational attractions include:

Columbus Municipal Airport Golf Course

Public 18-hole golf course located next to the airport. See columbusmuni.com or call (812) 376-2617.

Columbus North High School Athletics

Athletic programs at Columbus North High School include football, basketball, swimming, soccer, tennis, and more. See www.bcsc.k12.in.us/cnhs for details.

Purdue Club Baseball

The Purdue Club Baseball team plays games at League Stadium in Columbus. See web.ics.purdue.edu/~baseball for schedule.

Education

Public schools in Columbus are operated by the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC). BCSC runs 11 elementary schools, four middle schools, two high schools, and other facilities. See www.bcsc.k12.in.us for more details.

Private schools in the area include:

Columbus Signature Academy - New Tech High School

College preparatory high school located downtown. See csanc.org or call (812) 348-1070.

Lighthouse Christian Academy

Private Christian school serving grades K-12. See www.lcaeagles.org or call (812) 376-8910.

Nearby colleges and universities include Indiana University - Purdue University Columbus and Ivy Tech Community College Columbus.

Local Government

The city government of Columbus is located at 123 Washington Street, Columbus, IN 47201. See columbus.in.gov or call (812) 376-2500.

Columbus is the county seat of Bartholomew County. The Bartholomew County Governmental Office Building is located at 440 Third Street, Columbus, IN 47201. See www.bartholomewcounty.com or call (812) 379-1525.

Additional Local Resources

Other useful local resources include:

Columbus Indiana Public Library

The city's public library system with multiple branch locations. See www.bcpl.lib.in.us for info.

Columbus Indiana Fire Department

Provides fire protection and emergency response. See columbus.in.gov/department/division.php?structureid=244 or call 911 for emergencies.

Columbus Indiana Police Department

Law enforcement for the city. See columbus.in.gov/department/division.php?structureid=243 or call 911 for emergencies.

Columbus Indiana Visitors Center

Provides tourism information and visitor guides. Located at 506 5th Street. See columbus.in.us/visitor-center or call (812) 378-2622.

Columbus Indiana Facebook Page

Official city Facebook page with news and community updates. See facebook.com/CityofColumbusIndiana.

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