National Register of Historic Places listings in Columbus, Ohio facts for kids

The National Register of Historic Places is like a special list kept by the United States government. It helps protect and celebrate buildings, places, and structures that are important to history. Think of it as a Hall of Fame for historic sites!

In Franklin County, Ohio, where Columbus is located, there are 345 places on this list. Columbus itself has 170 of these amazing historic spots. Some of these are even more special and are called National Historic Landmarks. Columbus has all three of Franklin County's National Historic Landmarks. Also, 52 of these Columbus sites are also on the city's own list of local landmarks, called the Columbus Register of Historic Properties.

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places, often called the NRHP, is the official list of places in the United States that are important for their history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. It's managed by the National Park Service. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized as a valuable part of our country's past.

Why are these places important?

Listing a place on the NRHP helps to save it for future generations. It encourages people to protect and preserve these sites. It can also help owners get special grants or tax benefits to fix up and maintain their historic properties. It's all about making sure we don't forget the stories and designs of the past.

Historic Places in Columbus

Columbus is full of history, and many of its buildings and sites are on the National Register. These places tell us about how Columbus grew, what life was like long ago, and the amazing people who lived here. From grand old buildings to important historical areas, each one has a story to share.

Cool Buildings and Sites You Can Find

Here are just a few examples of the interesting places in Columbus that are on the National Register of Historic Places:

• LeVeque Tower: This tall building, once known as the American Insurance Union Citadel, stands at 50 W. Broad St. It was listed in 1975 and is a famous part of the Columbus skyline.
• Athletic Club of Columbus: Located at 136 E. Broad St., this club was added to the list in 2011. It's a beautiful building with a long history.
• Berry Brothers Bolt Works: Found at 350 E. 1st Ave., this industrial building was recognized in 1988. It reminds us of Columbus's manufacturing past.
• Born Capital Brewery Bottling Works: This old brewery building at 570 S. Front St. was listed in 2009. It shows the city's history of making beverages.
• Broad Street United Methodist Church: This church at 501 E. Broad St. has been on the Register since 1980, showcasing its historical importance in the community.
• Central High School: At 75 S. Washington Boulevard, this building was listed in 1985. Today, it's home to COSI, the Center of Science & Industry, a popular science museum.
• Camp Chase: This site at 2900 Sullivant Ave. was a Civil War training camp and prison. It was listed in 1973, reminding us of its role in American history.
• Franklin Park Conservatory: Located at 1547 E. Broad St., this beautiful conservatory and botanical garden was listed in 1974. It's a place where people can enjoy nature and learn about plants.
• German Village: This entire historic neighborhood, roughly bounded by Livingston Ave. and Pear Alley, was listed in 1974. It's famous for its charming brick homes and streets, showing German heritage in Columbus.
• Great Southern Hotel and Theatre: Found at S. High and E. Main Sts., this grand building was added in 1982. It's a historic spot for performances and hospitality.
• Lincoln Theatre: At 77 E. Long St., this theater was listed in 1992. It's an important cultural landmark, especially for the African American community in Columbus.
• Ohio Statehouse: Located at the southeastern corner of High and Broad Sts., the Ohio Statehouse is not just on the Register, but it's also a National Historic Landmark! It's the building where Ohio's government works. It was listed in 1972.
• Ohio Theatre: This beautiful theater at 39 E. State St. is another National Historic Landmark, listed in 1973. It's a stunning place to see shows and concerts.
• Old Governor's Mansion: The former home of Ohio's governors, at 1234 E. Broad St., was listed in 1972.
• Captain Edward V. Rickenbacker House: The home of famous WWI pilot and Medal of Honor recipient Captain Edward V. Rickenbacker, at 1334 E. Livingston Ave., is also a National Historic Landmark, listed in 1976.
• Short North Historic District: This lively area along N. High St. was recognized as a historic district in 1990. It's known for its art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
• Thurber House: The home of famous American humorist and cartoonist James Thurber, at 77 Jefferson Ave., was listed in 1979.

Former listings

Sometimes, a place might be removed from the National Register. This can happen if a building is torn down or if it loses its historical importance. For example, the Peruna Drug Manufacturing Company Building and the Union Station Entrance were once on the list but were later removed.