Welcome to the City of Columbia, Mississippi Founded in the early 1800’s on the banks of the Pearl River in the Mississippi Territory, the settlement was first named Lott’s Bluff. In 1819, the City of Columbia was formally incorporated and would soon serve as Mississippi’s temporary capital from 1821 to 1822 before LeFleur’s Bluff (now Jackson) was selected as the permanent capital. Today, approximately 7,000 residents enjoy the casual lifestyle, quality of life, and convenience Columbia affords with New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Jackson, Hattiesburg and the Gulf Coast all within easy reach. We invite you to visit us in Columbia, Mississippi and enjoy a taste of genuine southern hospitality.