Olde Towne East Overview and History

Olde Towne East is considered to be one of many Columbus’ oldest neighborhoods, located
what is termed as the cities Near East side the area holds several historical memories and
landmarks.

The area is numbered at over 1,000+ homes dating back to the 1830’s. During the 19th century
homes of the neighborhood were custom built for prominent individuals of the times. Many
homes are coined as mansions with more than 50 architectural designs.

According to (oldetowneeast.org), the area was known as a “bedroom
community” throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The 1863 development of horse drawn
streetcars is what initiated Columbus’ first suburban area.

Franklin Park Conservatory is located at the entrance of the immaculate suburban area, which
is located on one of the city’s main streets (Broad). This stretch of road historically served as
family operated farms and countryside from Washington D.C.

The occupants of what is now an abused mixed income area housed the constructors of
the city. “Silk Stocking District”, had no religious restrictions against families unlike other
developing neighborhoods.

Downfall began to reap upon the eye catching location, having copper, porcelain sinks/bathtubs
stripped from the homes during the start of the auto industry, which brought about a shift of
suburbia. As the wealthy began to die of, World War II and conflict of “old money” versus “new
money” took place, the Bexley area began to soak in the affluent residents at a rapid pace.

Currently, as most things to do, Olde Towne East is going through a cyclical stage of
redevelopment and rehabilitation. As the city restructures its efforts in attracting families and
individuals to be closer to Downtown, homes in the area are being bought and some restored to
its original state. While others bring more updated amenities to the homes looks internally and

Sources: Columbus Metropolitan Library Archives

externally.