Historic Places To Visit in Columbia, TN

Columbia, Tennessee, is a quaint city with small-town charm. Residents are welcoming and revel in the opportunity to come together and celebrate. As the self-proclaimed “Mule Capital of the World” and proud of it, locals love to gather annually and celebrate Mule Day. Columbia is also a town with a well-preserved history. Whether you are from Columbia or are merely visiting, consider stopping by at least one of the local historical sites to experience the town’s culture and learn about its residents. Read on for our list of historical places to visit in Columbia, Tennessee. 

President James K. Polk Home and Museum

Image via Flickr by Ron Cogswell | CC BY 2.0

The President James Knox Polk Home and Museum is a must-see for anyone in or near Columbia, Tennessee. Polk served as the 11th United States President from 1845 to 1849. Known for being a rambunctious child, there is a legend that says he once tied up his schoolhouse teacher and ran circles around her. As a U.S. President, he is credited with adding the most land to the United States than any other, and he is the only President to have also served as Speaker of the House. 

This home and museum, located at 301 West 7th Street, is the only surviving residence of James K. Polk. His father, Samuel Polk built it in 1816 while Polk was attending college. The house today hosts one of the most significant presidential collections open to the public for viewing. 

When visiting, expect to spend about two hours at the museum touring the premises and viewing the artifacts. Upon entering, a docent at the registration desk will greet you. Tour guides will walk you through the house pointing out displays of interest while sharing relevant historical and biographical facts about our 11th President, often known as “the first Dark Horse.” If you’re there while they are in bloom, visit the rose gardens outside. The serene environment and garden scents are a treat to your senses. 

Museum entry prices are reasonable and range from $8 for youth to $12 for adults. Senior citizens, veterans, and active military get a $2 discount and a family package is $35. To skip the tour and see only the Presidential Hall,  admission drops to $3 for children and $5 for adults. 

From April through October, the museum is open on Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hours change slightly from November through March. During this time of year, they open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m to 5 p.m. Parking is free in the lot across 7th Street or along High Street. Call 931-388-2354 with any questions. 

Elm Springs Mansion

A visit to Elm Springs Mansion is a trip back in time. This house, built by two brothers as a gift to their only sister, serves as the Sons of Confederate Veterans international headquarters since its purchase in 1992. In 1986, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places and is open for tours to educate the community and visitors about the home’s history and how it has changed throughout time. 

Hourly tours are conducted at the house with the first tour of the day starting at 9 a.m. and the last one starting at 3 p.m. If you arrive between hours, they encourage you to walk the grounds and enjoy the many elms that surround the property. A visit to the National Confederate Museum is also informative and will help you pass the time until your tour of Elm Springs begins. Visitors can also browse the gift shop to purchase a special memento of their trip to visit Elm Springs Mansion. 

For children 12 years and younger, tours are $5 while adult general admission is $10. If you’re looking to host a special event, the venue is available for rental. Prices for the rental room range from $110 to $150 for four hours with each additional hour beyond that being an extra charge. In addition to the venue, the grounds are also available to rent for your special events. Weddings at Elm Springs are $1,500 dollars. Be sure you review their wedding policy. Call 931-380-1844 for information about Elm Springs Mansion or to make a reservation for your next private party. 

The Historic Athenaeum Rectory

Nathan Vaught completed this once home turned Historic Athenaeum Rectory in 1847. It was originally built for Samuel Polk Walker, President Polk’s nephew, although he never lived there. Instead, it was home to Reverend Franklin Smith and his family. He later opened a private school for girls next door to their family home and named it Athenaeum, meaning “seat of knowledge.” It was one of only two private schools for girls in the area and operated until 1904. 

The intricate designs, architecture, and decor are reason enough to stop in. The well-informed tour guides provide relevant details surrounding the home and how it connects to the county’s history. Several events are hosted throughout the year. Ladies Weekend is a local favorite. The venue is also available to rent to serve as a backdrop to your special event. The front entryway and wrap-around porch are charming touches that create a wonderful setting for your special day. Photographs taken here are timeless and will easily become beloved family mementos. 

Since then, the Athenaeum has undergone renovations and continues to stand as a testament to the importance of equal education. It is a unique attribute of Columbia that hosts a lovely museum and is well worth a visit. This historical site runs tours Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for children, adults, senior citizens, veterans, and active military. Tour schedule and museum hours may change during the winter, so please call ahead. You can reach them at 931-381-4822. 

We’ve truly enjoyed sharing our suggested list of historical places to visit in Columbia, Tennessee. Did you find a destination that interests you? Perhaps we missed a favorite historical spot of yours? Leave a message and let us know your suggestions. We’ll be happy to include your ideas on our list!