Columbus: 1860-1910

Explore the rich history of Columbus, Ohio, from 1860-1910 through vintage images of its citizens, businesses, organizations and historic events.

In 1798, a settlement named Franklinton sprouted up on the west bank of the Scioto River, just below the Olentangy River. The Ohio legislature accepted a proposal in 1812 for the high bank east of the Scioto River, across the river from Franklinton, to be the site of the capital city. The location was given the name Columbus, even though it had no inhabitants at the time.

Columbus grew quickly and became the county seat. The arrival of the National Road, the Ohio Canal, and the railroads contributed greatly to Columbus's growth. This capital city developed first as a transportation hub, then as a manufacturing center and finally as the commerce, education and government center that it is today.