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Smack in the middle of Columbia, Missouri, right on the University of Missouri campus, six weathered limestone columns stretch toward the sky. They’re calm. Stoic. Almost haunting. But don’t mistake them for ordinary scenery — these pillars survived a fire, sparked a fight, and now stand as the soul of Mizzou’s most cherished traditions.
Even if you’ve never worn black and gold, you’ll feel something when you stand in front of them and understand their history.
So What Are “The Columns,” Exactly?
Once upon a time, way back in the 1840s, these six columns held up the front of Academic Hall, the university’s first and most important building. It was the heartbeat of campus: classrooms, offices, big dreams, all packed into one massive limestone structure.
But in January 1892, disaster struck. A fire raced through Academic Hall and left it in ashes. Everything burned. Everything, that is, except the columns.
They stayed standing.
Which is kind of wild when you think about it, fire everywhere, and these six stone pillars just… holding on.
Almost Torn Down, Until Columbia Fought Back
Not everyone was thrilled with the idea of letting a half-destroyed structure stay in the center of campus. After the fire, school officials voted to knock them down. Some folks said they were an eyesore. Others thought they might collapse.
But then came the outcry.
Alumni, students, and locals pushed back hard. There was passion. Pride. Even a courtroom fight. One guy (a lawyer named Jerry Dorsey) famously said the columns “couldn’t be pulled down by a herd of elephants.” An architect checked them out, confirmed they were safe, and in December 1893, the university reversed course.
They let the columns stand.
That decision, one that almost didn’t happen, gave Columbia one of its most iconic landmarks.
Why They Still Matter (Even If You’re Just Visiting)
If you’re on campus for a stroll, a game, or just a little exploration, stop by the Francis Quadrangle and stand among them. You’ll be surrounded by history and, if it’s a nice day, a whole lot of students studying, laughing, or lying in the grass.
But they’re not just a photo op (although yes, they do make a great one). Bring a good phone tripod or selfie stick #ad if you want a group photo. The space is big, and wide-angle shots look amazing. Here’s why the Columns still matter:
Tiger Walk & Tiger Prowl:
Freshmen walk toward the Columns as a way of entering the Mizzou community. Seniors walk away during graduation, marking their exit and new beginning. It’s symbolic and a little emotional, even if you’re just watching from the sidelines.
Tap Day:
One of Mizzou’s secret societies (yes, really) announces new members under the Columns every year. If you catch it, it’s dramatic and very Hogwarts meets the SEC.
Grad Photos:
If you know a Mizzou alum, chances are you’ve seen them in a cap and gown standing between the Columns. It’s practically a rite of passage.
Everyday Hangout:
People study here. Picnic here. Protest here. Get engaged here. The Columns are woven into daily life in a way that’s pretty special. Planning to lounge under the Columns for a bit? This foldable picnic blanket #ad is light, soft, and perfect for grassy campus hangs.
How to Visit (and What to Bring)
The Columns are open to everyone — no tickets, no tour, just walk up. They’re located right on Francis Quadrangle, a short walk from Jesse Hall (the big domed building you’ll spot from blocks away).
Make a little adventure out of it:
- Walk the quad
- Visit the Chinese Stone Lions near Neff Hall
- Grab coffee at Uprise Bakery or Shortwave Coffee
- Time your visit for sunset. The glow between the columns is unreal