Home of the first prehistoric pottery made in North America, Columbia County is one of the first counties in Georgia and one of the most rapidly growing areas in the state. From the tumultuous years of the Civil War to the 20th century, its history is recorded in these vintage photographs. The images within these pages--many never before seen by the public--include early pioneers who were instrumental in the founding of the county, as well as several ambrotypes of Confederate soldiers. The history of the county's education system, one of the state's best, is traced with snapshots of old field schools and village schoolhouses. Its industry is revealed, from locally-owned lumberyards to the famous Lake Thurmond Dam, which created the largest recreation facility in a five-county area. Culled from individuals, family collections, and county organizations, these pictures are treasured items offered for public perusal. An engaging retrospective, Columbia County offers something for everyone, from the history buff to the nostalgia seeker to the leisurely reader.