Part 2/13:
To understand how Columbus evolved into a hub of art and architecture, we must first journey back to the early 19th century. As the United States expanded, Ohio's lush forests and fertile lands attracted settlers and traders eager to harness their potential. Its strategic location at the confluence of two major rivers made it a natural center for trade and transportation.
In 1812, the Ohio State Legislature designated Columbus as the new state capital, naming it after the famed explorer Christopher Columbus. The city was thoughtfully planned with a grid layout, mirroring the ambitions of its founders who envisioned a thriving metropolis filled with impressive structures—government buildings, cultural institutions, and residences, all reflecting the architectural tastes of the era.