our Architects of History

As America celebrates 250 years since its Declaration of Independence, Columbia is marking the anniversary by highlighting some of its own trailblazers who’ve helped shape history. 

With the help of Maury County Archives and the African American Heritage Society of Maury County, the city has compiled a list of 26 Architects of History and placed them on banners throughout downtown and inside City Hall. These are people who made a variety of significant contributions that helped move the country forward in one way or another. 

“Although we’re calling them architects of history, they’re not literally architects,” explains Kellye Murphy, the City of Columbia's tourism and marketing director. “You have everything from school teachers to political figures to religious figures. It runs the gamut. I’m amazed by how it can be the most obscure individual you might not think played an influential role, but if you dig deeper, the things they’ve done were pivotal and life-changing in so many ways.”

Those featured on the banners include Dr. Lucius Hough Gilmore, who became one of the first African American commissioned military officers in Tennessee. He served in World War I and was honored for his bravery on the front lines in France.

Edward Franklin “Pop” Geers played a dominant role in American Harness Racing. Among his many achievements, he set a record with a horse named Napoleon Direct in 1916 when the thoroughbred ran a mile in just under two minutes.

And James Polk, who would become America’s 11th President, served from 1845 to 1849. It was during Polk’s term that California was ceded to the United States. That was in 1848, the year the gold rush began. Polk announced the discovery of the valuable mineral during his final State of the Union address.

The city has set up a website at Columbia250USA.com that tells more about these innovators, visionaries, and pioneers.

“We hope people will be moved or at least curious and go to the website,” Murphy says. “I have a lot of respect for the people on these banners. I think about the courage it takes in a lot of situations to step forward and do the right thing or do what’s best for your community. It’s not always easy.”

The website will serve as a clearing house for 250 events throughout Columbia and Maury County this year. Anyone planning an America 250 event is encouraged to share that information with the city.

Murphy, who has worked to market and promote Columbia tourism for the past nine years, says it’s a special place with a rich history and people who are incredibly proud of their heritage.

“Our job is to inspire people to visit Columbia. And that comes with great stories and having a destination that has a true sense of place. You feel that identity when you’re here, you feel the pride of the people, and hopefully, you feel welcome. So, it’s not even really promoting it, just sharing the great stories and events going on here.”

The Architects of History banners will remain in place through November 1st, giving everyone a chance to learn more about the special people who made Columbia and Maury County what they are today.

For more information, visit: Columbia250USA.com