Support Us Button Widget

Columbia’s 1999 time capsule

What was Columbia like at the turn of the millennium? We took a look back at the final year of the 20th century to see what life was like pre-Y2K.

1999 time capsule pics.png

Hey Google, what was Columbia like in 1999?

Graphic via Google

Do you remember 1999? Ricky Martin’s “Livin La Vida Loca” topped the charts, we were scared of the Blair Witch, and Google officially launched.

To celebrate, Google Trends opened its time capsule to see which fads were titanic in 1999. According to the report, adults were watching “The Matrix” and “The Sopranos” while kids were into “Toy Story 2” and “Teletubbies.” People also used the search engine to learn about David Beckham or evaluate their Pokémon cards, and searches for hot sauce set the web ablaze.

Livin La Vida Local

Want to know what life was like in the Soda City? We dug up some data to help us remember the final year of the 20th century — thanks to some help from a 25-year-old search engine.

Local headlines

  • The Gamecocks hired legendary Notre Dame coach Lou Holtz to help revive the program. In his first year, Holtz went 0-11, a season many Columbians are still trying to forget.
  • The South Carolina Penitentiary along the Congaree River, originally constructed in 1867, was razed to construct the CanalSide Development.
  • Columbia’s City Center Master Plan laid out the future of Columbia including plans for the Three River Greenway and the Columbia Convention Center.

Who was performing

  • The Beach Boys played at the SC State Fair.
  • Death Cab for Cutie played at New Brookland Tavern.
  • When Rod Stewart performed at the Carolina Coliseum ticket prices ranged from $25-$50.
  • WARQ’s Fall Out concert at Capital City Stadium included performances from Bush, Train, Cowboy Mouth, and Sponge.
More from COLAtoday
From statues of Soda Citizen icons to remarkable historical donations, these three gifts given to Columbia are way better than a Jelly of the Month Club membership.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Columbia, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
The Columbia Museum of Art will begin closing its galleries as it undergoes renovations in the new year to replace and improve gallery lighting and more. Be rest assured, the local museum will still be hosting events and programs.
2024’s Google Year in Search is out — check out what Soda Citizens were searching most this year (it might surprise you).
For the new year, we’re asking readers to submit their top questions about the Soda City for us to answer.
We’re crossing our fingers for some Midlands snow, but the good news is we’re a short drive from spots to ski, snowboard, and tube near Columbia, SC.
Calling all pickleball players — the Professional Pickleball Association is partnering with local organizations to host a tournament for amateur and aspiring professional pickleball players over the weekend of March 28-30.
From snowstorms to memorable snowfalls and winter weather locals can expect to see later this season, we’re recapping the history of snow in Columbia.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Columbia?
From awards to NIL deals, coaching staff changes, and more, here is recent Gamecock news you may have missed this week.