COLUMBIA CITY, IN — A crowd of curious locals and history lovers took to the streets of downtown Columbia City for the debut Historic Walking Tour on Saturday, May 3, 2025, hosted by Columbia City Connect in partnership with the Whitley County Historical Museum. Attendees participated in guided tours led by local experts, exploring the stories, architecture, and people that shaped the heart of the city.
The tour served as the kickoff event for Windows into History, a new initiative bringing historical photos and stories to downtown storefronts through November. This self-guided exhibit invites residents and visitors to engage with the city’s past in creative and accessible ways all season long.
Tour guides included a trio of distinguished local historians:
- Dr. Russ Gilliom, President of the Whitley County Historical Society
- Jennifer Romano, Whitley County Historian
- Nathan Bilger, Director of Whitley County Building and Planning
Each brought unique insights and dynamic storytelling to the tour. Dr. Gilliom added a theatrical touch by arriving in a period-accurate costume, portraying a campaigner for Columbia City’s own Thomas Marshall, former Vice President and Governor of Indiana.
“It was a remarkable first run,” said Nathan Bilger. “The energy was high, the crowd was engaged, and I’m already looking forward to what’s next.”
The 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. tours gave participants a deep dive into downtown’s rich past, with an extended version offered to a smaller group for additional exploration. Attendees were also treated to open access at the Whitley County Historical Museum, hosted by Rachael Hartman, and a special book sale featuring the new local history publication Around the Square by Pam Koch.
Shelby Longenbaugh shared, “I’m so impressed with the tour guides’ knowledge!”
Notable guests included George Hanlin of Indiana Humanities, who traveled from Indianapolis and praised the event’s high caliber—calling Bilger’s participation “incredible.” Local public radio station WBOI was also on-site to capture interviews with organizers and guides.
The team is already brainstorming ideas for future tours. “This was a fantastic example of what happens when a community comes together to celebrate its story,” said Niki Keister, director of Columbia City Connect. “We’re just getting started.”
For updates on future tours and other community events, follow Columbia City Connect on Facebook or visit ColumbiaCityConnect.com
