From reports

Columbia City Connect is planning an upcoming event to showcase the unique interior spaces of several historic locations in downtown Columbia City on May 4.

Columbia City Connect is kicking off May, National Historic Preservation Month, with a Historic Interior Tour. This rare tour will allow unique access to downtown buildings’ interiors. Explore the heart of Columbia City in a way never seen before.

This year, selected building owners in Columbia City’s historic downtown district are opening their buildings for this public tour. The tour will be a priceless way to get an up-close look at both the lovingly-restored and possibility-filled buildings at the core of our city.

The Spring Historic Interior Tour is Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There is no cost to attend.

The tour will feature several historic buildings in various states of restoration. This tour is self-guided, and participants will tour the buildings in any order they like. Building owners and hosts will be available to answer questions about restoration efforts, historic building maintenance, and why they chose Columbia City for their business.

Along with privately-owned buildings, tour participants can visit other notable historic buildings such as the Whitley County Courthouse and the Thomas Marshall House Museum in a guided tour. Choose from two (2) tour times available for each location.

Thomas Marshall House Museum will have guided tours from:

• 9 to 9:45 a.m.
• 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Whitley County Courthouse will have guided tours from:

• 11 to 11:45 a.m.
• 12 to 12:45 p.m.

While visitors are in downtown Columbia City, please plan to enjoy a coffee or enjoy brunch at one of the top-notch cafes and restaurants.

This tour will be held rain or shine. For ADA accommodations and/or more information, call 260-264-8062, or email niki@columbiacityconnect.com