The Columns | |
Location | Columbia, Missouri |
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Coordinates | 38°56′47″N 92°19′44″W / 38.946282°N 92.328781°W |
Built | 1840–1843 |
Architect | Stephen Hills |
Architectural style | Classical Revival |
Part of | Francis Quadrangle Historic District (ID73001036[1]) |
Added to NRHP | December 18, 1973 |
The Columns are the most recognizable landmark of the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. Standing 43 feet (13 m) tall in the center of Francis Quadrangle and at the south end of the Avenue of the Columns, they are the remains of the portico of Academic Hall. Along with Jesse Hall, they are one of the most photographed sites in Missouri.[2] The Columns have been at the center of many traditions and events including graduations, concerts, pranks, weddings, and protests. Mizzou's school song mentions the columns,[3] and they have been the setting for a work of fiction. They are a contributing structure to the Francis Quadrangle National Historic District. The columns underwent preservation work in 2017.