Welcome to
Columbus and Port Columbus, GA!

The famous Chattahoochee River has moved quietly through the Columbus, GA locale for centuries bringing with it the jobs, food and the recreation that sustained the early citizens and continues to engage visitors and a population of more than 250,000. The pride in local history, the charm of a relaxed stroll on shaded trails along the river, and the friendly citizens define the traditions of the area. Columbus provides well-known corporations and what is described as the best U.S Army Installation in the world at Fort Benning with "home" addresses. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the cultural and historic sites from the Columbus Museum and the Springer Opera House to the National Infantry Museum and a beautiful historic district.

The local reverence for history and a tribute to sailors who served on both sides of the "War between The States" is clearly evident in Port Columbus. Here EarthCam and the National Civil War Naval Museum invite you to witness history as one of the most famous vessels of the war is reconstructed on the museum grounds from original plans. The ship, the wooden-hulled, side wheel gunboat-was the third such vessel developed for the US Navy. Having been captured by the Confederate States, it had the unique distinction of serving both Navies-first as the USS Water Witch and then in 1864 as the CSS Water Witch. It as later burned by the Confederate Navy to prevent recapture. The reconstruction will provide historians and students a full-sized replica of the vessel to study and experience.

The National Civil War Naval Museum, includes educational programs, a library, several exhibits, military artifacts, including a flag collection and 19th century uniforms and ships such as the CSS Jackson-the largest surviving confederate vessel. Among other displays visitors experience a full-scale replica of the turret of the USS Monitor, which engaged the CSS Virginia (the Merrimac) in the world's first ironclad ship battle.

EarthCam and affiliate, Port Columbus,

For more information, please visit our affiliate at www.portcolumbus.org.