Welcome to the Columbia Archives, located in Columbia, Maryland. The Columbia Archives is the primary resource on the history of the planning and development of Columbia and the life and career of its visionary founder, James Rouse. It is a service of the Columbia Association. Columbia Archives serves researchers at every level and welcomes residents and visitors who wish to learn more about Columbia’s past, present and future.
 

Join Columbia Archives for a WalkAlong
Saturday, May 12, 2012 at Columbia Town Center. Click here for details

Communication: Then & Now
Exhibit explores how Columbia communicates about itself. Click here for details

The Mall in Columbia marks its 40th Anniversary
Successful shopping mecca also has history of community gathering space. Click here for details

Opening of The Mall featured on Columbia Matters
Original tenant gives personal account of opening day in video segment exploring history of The Mall. Click here for details

Howard Hughes Corporation donates Columbia planning documents
The “Green Books” reveal the thoughts, possibilities and plans for Columbia Click here for details

May 1966
Johns Hopkins Medicine announces intention to establish a comprehensive health care system in Columbia.

May 1967
Governor Agnew and Senator Mathias attend ground breaking ceremony for Hittman Corporation, Columbia’s first industry.

May 1970
Four and a half mile spur brings railroad to Guilford Industrial Park.

May 1973
Columbia Cinema opens in Town Center showing Hitler: The Last Ten Days.

May 1975
Traditional Acupuncture Institute, now Tai Sophia Institute, opens in American City Building in Town Center.

May 2001
Student run Wilde Times Café in Wilde Lake Village Center closes.