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The Old Post Office Museum is a historic building located in Columbus, Mississippi, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The building is a two-story structure constructed primarily of brick. It features a prominent central portico with Doric columns supporting a pediment. The exterior walls are painted a light, neutral color, contrasting with the darker hue of the roof. Architectural style is Neoclassical.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old Post Office Museum is situated at 200 Main Street in downtown Columbus, Mississippi. It is approximately 0.2 miles (0.3 km) west of the Columbus Riverfront. Parking is available on surrounding streets, with metered parking typically in effect during business hours. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is located on Main Street, approximately 0.1 miles (0.16 km) east of the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Old Post Office was completed in 1910. The building was designed by architect James Knox Taylor and served as the United States Post Office for Columbus until 1961. It was later repurposed as a museum.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the history of the U.S. Postal Service and local Columbus history. Guided tours are available by appointment. The building's architecture itself is a point of interest.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the first floor. Limited seating is provided within the exhibition areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good within the building. Food vendors and restaurants are located within a 0.5 km radius in the downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Mid-morning or mid-afternoon visits typically offer fewer crowds. Lighting inside is artificial, so time of day for photography is not a significant factor.

Facts & Legends

During its operational years as a post office, it is documented that the building handled mail for a significant portion of Lowndes County. A local anecdote suggests that during the Great Depression, the postmaster would sometimes allow children to send letters without postage if they could prove their need.

Nearby Landmarks

• Lowndes County Historical Society Museum (0.3km South)
• Columbus Riverfront (0.3km East)
• Tennessee Williams Home (0.4km Northwest)
• Friendship Cemetery (0.8km West)