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A History of Columbia County Florida (1996) Edward F. Keuchel 284/340

A History of Columbia County, Florida

At the time of the nation’s bicentennial, Columbia County
could trace a history covering roughly three-fourths of that time
span. As the nation has grown and developed so has the county.
Much of the heritage of the history of the United States can be
seen in microcosm in Columbia County. The area had an early
historical period prior to United States acquisition; it had a
frontier period complete with Indian dangers and pioneer life; it
had its trials during the difficult period of Civil War and Re­
construction; and it had its role in the booming development of
twentieth century Florida.
Many of the factors which contributed to the county’s past
development, such as its role as a transportation hub, have con­
tinued into the present. Indeed, the junction of Interstate 10 and
Interstate 75 in the county has reinforced the county’s historic role
as a transportation hub and it still serves as a “gateway” for many
of the state’s visitors. The county maintains a strong position in
agriculture—an agriculture more diversified than during the old
days of cotton cultivation. Its role in higher education has changed
since the days when it was home to the “University of Florida,” but
the development of the Lake City Community College has made it
again a center of learning. Many of the smaller communities have
faded, but Lake City and Fort White still remain as the county’s
urban centers. The Lake City Reporter stands as one of the oldest,
influential newspapers in the state. Most important, however, is
the spirit of the people of Columbia County which continues to
demonstrate the vitality one associates with the American frontier.
Although an interest and love of the past has been demonstrated in
the county, the primary emphasis of its people has been optimism
for the future. To that end a history of Columbia County is more
properly an opening to the future than a closing to the past.

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