Cultural Arts Center facts for kids
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| Former name | Ohio State Arsenal |
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| Established | 1976 |
| Location | 139 West Main Street Columbus, Ohio 43215 USA |
| Type | Cultural center |
| Public transit access |  Add→ 3, 6, 9 CoGo |
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Ohio State Arsenal
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| Architectural style | Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 74001495 |
| Significant dates | |
| Added to NRHP | July 18, 1974 |
The Cultural Arts Center is a cool place in downtown Columbus, Ohio. It's an art gallery and a teaching space all in one! Here, visual artists and crafters can learn and show their work. It's a big building, about 38,500 square feet, located at 139 West Main Street. The center is part of the city's fun Scioto Mile area. You can find a ceramics lab in the basement. There are also labs for painting and weaving on the upper floors. The center offers many art classes for everyone. It's also used for special events.
Contents
History of the Building
The land where the Cultural Arts Center stands has a long history.
From Prison to Arsenal
In 1814, a state prison was first built here. Later, in 1861, that prison was taken down. A new building was constructed in its place. This new building was called the Ohio State Arsenal. Prisoners helped build it. The building has a special style called Italianate.
A Place for Weapons
During the American Civil War, the arsenal was very important. It stored weapons and even horses. It was a key spot for the state's military supplies.
Historical Treasures
Today, you can still see some cool historical items at the center. There's an eagle-and-shield from a very old battleship called the USS Ohio. You can also see a bell from a missile cruiser named the USS Columbus. These items show the building's connection to Ohio's past.
Becoming an Arts Center
The arsenal building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This means it's recognized as a special historical site. In 1976, the city of Columbus took over the building. They leased it from the state for only $1 a year!
With help from a $1.4 million grant, the building was changed. It became the Cultural Arts Center we know today. It officially opened its doors on June 11, 1978. The center is now a popular stop on many of Columbus's historical tours.
