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Columbus, OH is Home to Beautiful Historic Architecture

Updated: Jul 18, 2023

Historic residences provide a doorway into the past, allowing us to see what life was like in prior centuries. They also symbolize bygone eras' architecture and skill, which might be lost forever if not properly maintained for. Furthermore, historical residences may serve as key monuments in communities, offering a feeling of place and aiding in tourist development. The most significant aspect of historical homes, however, is that they are part of our common cultural legacy. They serve as a constant reminder of who we are and where we came from. They instill a sense of pride and belonging while also reminding us of the human spirit's tenacity. Historic home repair is not always simple, but it is always worthwhile. They play a crucial role in our history, present, and future.


Historic Structures

Many iconic buildings across the world have distinctive roof designs. Some are intended to give shade, while others are intended to keep rainwater away from the structure below. Others are simply stunning pieces of art.

The Giza Pyramids are among the oldest and biggest structures ever constructed by humanity. They were built between 2560 BC and 2504 BC during Pharaoh Khufu's reign (Cheops). These gigantic stone structures served as tombs for pharaohs and other royal family members.

Gustave Eiffel, an engineer who also built the first functional iron girder bridge, designed the Eiffel Tower. It is 1,063 feet tall and was finished in 1889. The tower has been described as "the most beautiful building in the world" and "one of the modern age's wonders."

Between 1632 and 1648, the Taj Mahal was created as a mausoleum for Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's adored wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is located in Agra, India, and is regarded as one of the most outstanding specimens of Islamic architecture.

The Empire State Building is a well-known landmark in New York City. The structure was designed by William F. Lamb and stands 1,454 feet tall. It gets its name from its placement near the crossroads of Fifth Avenue and 34th Street.


Columbus Ohio's History

Columbus, OH is home to many spectacular historic home preservation landmarks. These buildings create community by sharing the history behind the building. Some historic home preservation sites become museums to teach the community about how it was created, who would have lived there, and what it was used for.


The Great Southern Hotel and Theater historical building in Columbus Ohio

The Great Southern Hotel & Theatre was built in 1894 after a series of fires burned down various Columbus theatres. The idea behind the construction of this building was to make it as modern as possible to make it less flammable. This building is the oldest surviving theatre in Columbus, as well as one of the oldest in Ohio. It was also one of the first buildings in Columbus to use electricity in this capacity. After so many renovation costs, the theatre was closed in 1979 and wasn’t reopened until 1998. Due to the generosity of the Columbus community, the theatre was able to complete all renovations and was restored to be enjoyed by everyone. This theatre brought culture and community to both the past and present.

W.H. Jones historical house and building in Central Columbus OH

The W.H. Jones Mansion came to be in 1889. It showcases Queen Anne architecture and currently serves as an alternative school for the community. It remained a home up until 1923, and was almost demolished. Thankfully, a local neighborhood association prevented the destruction of this beautiful historic building. This building has served many purposes for the community over the years, including housing, a medical office, and more. The community thought it served as a way to educate on the past architecture and life, as well as provided a scenic building for the neighborhood. This is why they worked so hard to keep this building present in Columbus.


Ohio historical landmark James Thurber house

Thurber House was built in 1873 and was occupied by the Thurber family from 1913-1917. Born in Columbus, OH, James Thurber was a cartoonist for the New Yorker after graduating from The Ohio State University. This house is now a museum and home to a nonprofit literary arts center. This organization gives back to the community through the Thurber House by offering programs on creative arts to both adults and children. This building was almost demolished in the 1970s, but was purchased and underwent major restoration instead. Interestingly, the Thurber House is believed to be haunted, as James Thurber himself witnessed a ghost, as well as the house being built where an asylum used to sit. This building brings rich history and education to all that enter it.

Preserving History

If you live in an area with a lot of history, then preserving your home’s historic value is important. It adds value to your community and helps people understand what life was like when you lived there. You also protect the memories of those who came before you.

There are many ways you can help preserve history in your home.


First, learn how to identify and document the details of your home. This includes taking photos, making notes, and recording audio. This is so that you can ensure every detail of your home is taken care of. It will also help in the future if you have to make any renovations to decide which materials are needed and who can get the job done correctly. These records will also help you determine the historic value of your home.


Second, find out more about local preservation organizations. Columbus is home to Columbus Landmarks. They can help you with next steps when determining whether to get your home registered as a historic building, or if you need to make any repairs. It can be hard trying to maintain building integrity while also trying to preserve history of the original materials used in construction. A historical society can give you resources on how to go about saving as much history as you can when restoring your home.


Third, consider donating money to support these efforts. Columbus Landmarks is a non-profit organization. They work through donations made by the community to upkeep the history that is important to them. If this organization has helped you with your historic home restoration, then consider donating for their cause.


Finally, share your knowledge by writing articles and giving presentations. History is meant to be shared, and what better way than by educating those around you with the history available to you.


The National Register of Historic Places

The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is an official list of properties deemed historically significant by the United States government. It was established in 1966 as part of the National Park Service. There are more than 1 million NRHP listings nationwide. To qualify for listing, a property must meet certain criteria, such as being at least 50 years old and having some connection to the American Revolution.


Roofing of the Past

Shingle materials have changed throughout the years. Asphalt shingles have a long and textured history, dating back to the early 1900s. Though their original design has been modernized and their installation process perfected, asphalt shingles are still one of the most popular roofing materials on the market. They are not the only option available, though. In fact, there is a wide variety of shingles materials that have been used throughout history.


Wooden shingles were once the most popular roofing material. Wooden shingles are more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they are also more durable. Wooden shingles can last for decades if they are properly maintained. However, wooden shingles are not fire resistant, so they may not be the best choice for homes in areas with high fire risk.


Metal roofing is one of the most durable roofing materials on the market. Metal roofing can last for decades, and it is resistant to fire, wind, and hail. Metal roofing is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a look that best suits your home. However, metal roofing can be noisy during a rainstorm, and it may not be the best choice for homes in areas with high noise levels.


Tile roofing is a popular choice for homes in warm climates. Tile roofing is made from clay or concrete, and it is available in a variety of colors and styles. Tile roofing is durable and fire resistant, but it is also expensive.


Slate roofing is one of the most durable roofing materials on the market. Slate roofing can last for centuries, and it is resistant to fire, wind, and hail. Slate roofing is available in a variety of colors and styles, but it is also expensive.


Whichever shingles material your home uses, it’s important to keep up with roof maintenance. Your roof protects the rest of your home from water damage and the elements outside. If your roof isn’t working properly, then it’ll be harder to preserve history in your home.

Columbus Roofing

Historic buildings are an important part of our heritage. They tell us about the past and remind us of the people who lived there. They are also a great source of pride for our community. Working for historic home restoration can be tricky, but it is worth it in the end to preserve history. If you, or anyone you know, is curious about roof restoration, then call Lifetime Quality Roofing, your local Columbus roofing company, at 614-407-7663.


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