CoMo Brick & Mortar Project Launch Event
On April 12, 2026, CoMo Preservation and The District officially launched the CoMo Brick & Mortar Project with a wonderful afternoon of history, community, and celebration in downtown Columbia. Guests gathered at Wynnsome inside the historic Herald Building following an optional walking tour of featured sites. The event brought together preservation supporters, community partners, and curious visitors eager to explore the stories behind Columbia’s built environment. We’re especially grateful for the strong media interest surrounding the launch. Local press coverage helped amplify the project’s mission—connecting people to the history embedded in our downtown buildings—and brought new audiences into the conversation about preservation. That visibility is critical as we continue to grow the project and expand its reach. Check out our In The News section to explore the media coverage.
The launch highlighted the first six participating buildings, each representing a unique facet of Columbia’s history: The Hall Theatre, Howard Municipal Building, Crane-Cho Building, M.K.T. Depot, Herald Building, and The Tiger Hotel.
Through newly installed QR-code window clings, visitors can now engage with mobile-friendly content that brings these buildings’ histories to life—highlighting architecture, past occupants, and the roles these places have played in shaping our community.
Thank you to our partners at The District, our dedicated researchers and volunteers, and to Wynnsome for hosting such a welcoming launch space. Thank you to the City of Columbia’s Office of Cultural Affairs for providing partial funding for this Project. We also extend our appreciation to everyone who attended, took the tour, and helped make the day such a success.
Get Involved
This project is designed to grow—and there are many ways to be part of it. Property owners and businesses in downtown Columbia can participate by hosting a window cling and sharing the story of their building. Community members can contribute by volunteering with research, writing, photography, or outreach efforts. You can also support the project by becoming a member of CoMo Preservation, making a donation, or simply helping spread the word by visiting sites, scanning codes, and sharing what you learn with others.
Interested in being part of the Project? Contact CoMo Preservation to learn more. We welcome conversations with property owners, historians, volunteers, teachers, donors, and anyone who wants to help share and preserve these stories.
This is just the beginning. The CoMo Brick & Mortar Project will continue to grow—adding more buildings, more stories, and more opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with Columbia’s architectural heritage.
Image below: First cling installed on April 12, 2026 at 1020 E. Broadway.
CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated, but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. The preservation of historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, signing up for our newsletter attending an event, or donating.
Questions? Suggestions for speakers or events? Email CoMoPreservation@gmail.com
