COLUMBIA CITY, IN. – April 3, 2026 – Columbia City Connect, in partnership with the Whitley County Historical Museum, invites you to explore the people, places and moments that shaped the city during a Historic Walking Tour of Downtown Columbia City on Saturday, May 2 at 10:00 am. The tour will begin on the northwest corner of the Courthouse lawn.
This free event offers a guided walk through downtown filled with engaging storytelling, local insight, and a closer look at the buildings and events that define Columbia City’s character. Participants will hear the stories behind familiar places and gain a deeper appreciation for the history woven into the streets.
Along the route, guests will hear the dramatic story of the historic shootout at Pontizus Drug–an event that once brought chaos to an otherwise ordinary day in downtown Columbia City. The tour also highlights the legacy of Vice President Thomas R. Marshall, including a stop at his former home and the site of one of his notable speeches, offering insight into one of the community’s most prominent figures. Participants will also have a rare opportunity to tour the Smith & Sons Funeral Home, also known as the Peabody House, for an interior tour that reveals the rich architectural and cultural history of this unique space.
Along the way, participants will enjoy a scenic route through downtown, with engaging storytelling at key stops. Guests can choose between a shorter or extended version of the tour, making it accessible for all ages and interest levels.
No RSVP is required–just bring comfortable walking shoes and a curiosity for history!
