Guide to the City of Columbus

Columbus, Ohio, once a dense forest used only for hunting, was founded in 1812, getting its name from the explorer, Christopher Columbus. It became the state capital four years later. Columbus is not only the state capital of Ohio, but it is now also the state’s largest city and third largest metropolitan area. Today, it boasts the 16^th largest population in the U.S. Its residents are as diverse as its economy, which is based on everything from education to fashion to aviation, among many others.

City of Columbus History

Columbus has a rich history of Native American civilizations, specifically the Mingo, Wyandot, Miami, Delaware, and Shawnee nations. Many were mound-building societies whose remnants can still be detected in street names. One such example, “Mound Street,” was named for its proximity to an ancient burial mound.

Once major roads and railroads were built, Irish and German settlers populated the area and built breweries, a university, and a seminary school. Columbus was a major base for the Union during the Civil War, and, toward the end of the 19^th century, became known as the “Buggy Capital of the World” because of the number of buggy factories. Later, Columbus earned another of its many nicknames, “The Arch City,” because of its many wooden arches over downtown streets. The city’s diverse economy protected it against the worst of The Great Depression, and its population soared during WWII, which brought many new jobs and migrant workers.

The city of Columbus also has boasting rights about having one of the first modern shopping centers in the US. In the field of aviation, Columbus was the starting point for Geraldine Fredritz Mock’s historical first flight around the world in the “Spirit of Columbus,” setting new records for women and speed.

Columbus City Districts

Columbus, Ohio is home to many distinctive neighborhoods, all centered around the downtown area. Just north of downtown, the Short North is a hub for art galleries, specialty shops, restaurants, and pubs. Nearby is the Victorian Village, full of elegant Victorian-style homes. Even further south is German Village, a large, privately-funded historic district known for its 19^th century brick cottages. Directly west is the Brewery District, whose bars are slowly being replaced by offices and homes. To the east is King Lincoln Bronzeville, an African-American cultural hub. Going further east brings Olde Town East, an affluent neighborhood known for its large homes of varying styles. Immediately west of downtown is Franklinton, also known as “The Bottoms” and another group of neighborhoods simply referred to as “The Hilltop.”

Major Attractions

The city of Columbus, Ohio has many noteworthy landmarks, museums, parks, and attractions including the performing arts, sports, and local festivals. A few of these interesting things to see include a replica of Christopher Columbus’ ship, The Santa Maria, The Columbus Museum of Art, the Kelton House Museum and Garden, which was part of the Underground Railroad, and Whetstone Park, including the Park of Roses, a 13-acre rose garden.

The Ohio State Fair is one of the largest fairs in the U.S. and is just one of countless festivals held year-round. The Columbus Symphony Orchestra and BalletMet Columbus are two of the several popular and respected performing arts centers in the city. Columbus also hosts a number of athletic events, one such event is held every October: the annual All American Quarter Horse Congress, the largest single breed horse show in the world. The city is also home to Ohio Stadium, where Ohio State University’s Buckeyes football team, a member of the NCAA’s Big Ten Conference, plays its home games.

Columbus is a city rich in history, culture, and diverse attractions. There’s something for everyone from all walks of life.