Ohio History Center

Exhibits cover the state's history plus Ohio Village, an interactive re-creation of an 1860s town.

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The History of Columbus

Before its founding, the area that is now Columbus was home to various Native American tribes, drawn to its strategic location at the junction of the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers. This natural meeting point made it an ideal settlement area.

In 1812, Columbus was established, named after settler Christopher Columbus. The city quickly rose in prominence, becoming Ohio’s capital just four years later in 1816. Its growth was fueled by the National Road and the railways, transforming Columbus into a bustling hub for transportation and trade. Today, the city thrives as a dynamic center of education, technology, and culture.

Ohio History Center

The History of Columbus

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