Discover Our History

The rich history of Lake City, Florida’s Springlands may surprise you. It includes a pretty diverse selection of offerings along our historical timeline: Native American settlements. The arrival of Europeans — the conquistador DeSoto trekked his army through here in 1539. The Second Seminole War. Civil War battles. Florida’s first elevator. The founding of the University of Florida. WWII pilot training and more. And here’s a bit of historical trivia everyone seems to like: Lake City was originally named Alligator. You can get a crash course in our history and culture at the Columbia County History Museum in Lake City. There’s also a museum dedicated to Stephen Foster, widely regarded as America’s first popular songwriter. (You’ve heard “Camptown Races,” right?) So explore our history and have an “Oh, Doo-Dah Day!”

Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum

The Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum is housed in an 1870s-era home previously owned by the Vinzant family. This museum includes two stories of the history of Columbia County and artifacts from the Civil War. A portion of the museum is devoted to Vinzant family artifacts, including family photos. In addition to the various exhibitions, the museum also offers genealogical research, tours and special events.

Ichetucknee Springs Education and Exhibit Center
Situated just off U.S. Route 27, the Ichetucknee Springs Education and Exhibit Center allows you to explore how urban growth and water usage have affected the Ichetucknee River and Ichetucknee Springs. Follow cave divers as they explore activities taking place deep within our recharge basin.
Halpatter Brewing Company
Lake City-Columbia County's first craft brewery, Halpatter Brewing Company, takes its name from Halpatter Tustenuggee, the best known former Seminole Indian resident from the Village of Alligator, today known as Lake City. Halpatter brews a variety of specialty craft brews and is located in the heart of downtown, Lake City.
Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park
If you’re familiar with Florida’s history, then you’ve heard about the famous Battle of Olustee, where Union and Confederate soldiers fought in 1864. Commemorating the site of Florida’s largest Civil War Battle, Olustee Battlefield is also the state’s first historic site.
The Tavern Irish Pub and Brewery
Located in historic downtown, this pub has exactly what you need to unwind and have fun while enjoying a unique and historic atmosphere of "old Lake City". Try one of their in-house crafted brews or enjoy the perfect cocktail from their full bar.