Chosen as the Bartholomew County seat in 1821, Columbus's location at the confluence of the Driftwood and Flat Rock Rivers served the area's economy well. As industry prospered, the town grew, and a unique and inspiring architectural history began. During the late 1800s, construction began on many of the city's finest architectural gems, including the Bartholomew County Courthouse, City Hall, and McKinley and Garfield Schools. Residents have protected these treasures and maintained the city's architectural integrity. Today, Columbus is recognized world-wide for its dynamic architecture and is home to over 50 public and private buildings, each exemplifying the creativity of the architect and ingenuity of the citizens who made it possible.