City of Columbus Hall of Fame (2024)

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Dr. Nimrod Booker AllenAllen was a man with vision and wisdom and had the far-sighted ability to organize the Columbus Urban League in 1917.

Warner BaxterColumbus born Warner Baxter entertained millions of Americans as a Hollywood actor.

George Wesley BellowsFourteen magnificent Bellows paintings adorning the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts attest to the brilliance of Columbus born artist George Wesley Bellows.

Reverend Dr. Charles E. BoothPreaching the Gospel was a life calling for the Reverend Dr. Charles E. Booth

Leslie A. BosticLeslie A. Bostic, Ph.D. has dedicated his adult life to aiding troubled children and families

John W. BrickerThe honorable John W. Bricker held several public offices, including Attorney General, Governor and United States Senator.

Carl L. Brown Sr.“Family Business Man” Carl L. Brown Sr., was a man of intense energy and determination.

Edna L. BryceEdna L. Bryce, a native of Fairhope, Alabama, was one of many African American "domestic immigrants" who sought a broader landscape of opportunity and freedom north of the Mason Dixon line.

Captain Phil H. BucklewCaptain Bucklew is a native of Columbus and a veteran of unconventional warfare and Naval Intelligence.

Jack CannonJack Cannon earned All American football honors at Notre Dame in 1929.

Dr. Benjamin B. CaplanDr. Benjamin B. Caplan, a medical philanthropist, has served mankind around the world.

Daniel A. CarmichaelIn May of 1939, Dan Carmichael was the winning pitcher in the first ever-televised sporting event.

Joe F. CarrJoe F. Carr was a pioneer executive not only in football but also in basketball and minor-league baseball.

Howard “Hopalong” CassadyAn All-American and Heisman Trophy-winning Ohio State University halfback called the “Genius of the Gridiron” in recognition of his great football achievements.

Robert Osbourne ChadeayneA nationally acclaimed artist and illustrator, Robert O. Chadeayne has distinguished himself as a superb and accomplished talent in the arts world.

Elizabeth Greer CoitElizabeth Greer Coit was an ardent advocate for education and equal rights for women.

Eugene C. “Gene” D’Angelo Jr.Eugene C. “Gene” D’Angelo Jr. has had a tremendous impact on the Columbus music community.

Helen Jenkins DavisIn 1918, Helen Jenkins Davis fought for her right to serve the children of Columbus as one of the first African-American Columbus City Schools teachers.

Melvin B. DodgeDuring his long and distinguished career, Mel Dodge garnered dozens of community awards and served numerous civic and charitable organizations.

Hugh J. DorrianIn January 1966 Mr. Dorrian became Treasurer of the City of Columbus, Ohio. He was appointed City Auditor in September 1969.

James “Buster” DouglasJames “Buster” Douglas brought honor and accolades to his hometown of Columbus, Ohio in 1990, with his long-shot upset of then unbeaten Mike Tyson.

Golda M. EdmonstonGolda M. Edmonston was a member of the Ohio House of Representatives for five terms in the 1940s and 1950s.

Colonel Donn F. EiseleColonel Donn F. Eisele was one of the third group of astronauts selected by NASA in October 1963 and logged 260 hours in space.

Frank FetchFrank Fetch was the founder of the German Village Society and instrumental in the development of the German Village commission.

Mary Teresa FunkMary Teresa Funk served the City of Columbus from 2000 to 2010, after many years of being a neighborhood advocate and President of the Harrison West Society.

John W. GalbreathReal estate developer and sports entrepreneur, John W. Galbreath has brought Columbus worldwide recognition.

Rev. Dr. Washington GladdenThe Rev. Dr. Washington Gladden served as the Minister of the First Congregational Church of Columbus, Ohio from 1882 to 1918.

Horace "Hank" GowdyColumbus native Hank Gowdy distinguished himself as an outstanding baseball player and coach.

Lynn GreerLynn Greer is the epitome of what it means to be a public servant.

Archie GriffinAs a junior at Ohio State University, Archie Griffin became the 40th winner of the coveted Heisman Trophy.

Charles "Chic" HarleyA gifted athlete, who helped Columbus attain the mythical title of “College Football Capital of the World”

Wayne Woodrow “Woody” HayesIn 1975, Ohio State University football coach Wayne Woodrow “Woody” Hayes became the fourth winningest coach in the history of college football with 208 victories

Wil HaygoodA native of Columbus, Ohio, Wil Haygood began his writing career at the Columbus Call and Post.

Chief James G. JacksonChief Jackson was promoted to the position of Chief of Police on June 15, 1990,and was been the longest serving chief in the Division’s history,

Janet E. JacksonJanet E. Jackson spent 14 years as president and CEO of United Way of Central Ohio, one of the largest United Way organizations in the country.

Donna A. JamesDonna A. James is a trusted resource and advisor to leaders in the public and private sector, ranging from entrepreneurs to C‐suite executives of Fortune 500 companies.

Elsie Bierbower JanisA talented writer and actress, Elsie Bierbower Janis gained international recognition in the entertainment industry.

Charles LazarusCharles Lazarus, a native of Columbus, began his career as a part time Lazarus associate.

Mary LazarusMary Lazarus is a civic and philanthropic leader who has used her voice and philanthropy to further social justice in our community.

Robert Lazarus Jr.Robert Lazarus Jr.’s extensive leadership in Columbus has earned him numerous recognitions.

Curtis LeMayA former Air Force Chief of Staff and four star general, Curtis LeMay’s name was synonymous with the development of military aviation.

James J. LorimerJim Lorimer is an attorney and former Special Agent of the F.B.I. who has promoted the Arnold Sports Festival since 1989.

Dr. Amos H Lynch Sr.Amos Lynch has served at the helm of the Call and Post, and formed his own publication the Columbus Post.

Imran Malik AwanImran Malik Awan, a multicultural and multilingual interfaith leader, strongly believes in the value of putting our faiths in action to bring people together through community service.

John H. McConnellJohn H. McConnell lived his life following a simple, successful philosophy that puts people first and follows the golden rule.

Jordan A. Miller, Jr.Jordan A. Miller, Jr. is a Business and Community Advisor and currently resides in Columbus, Ohio.

Jerrie MockGeraldine "Jerrie" Fredritz Mock set numerous official world aviation records between 1964–1969.

Captain Lana MooreLana Moore, a third-generation firefighter, EMT-B with the Columbus Division of Fire retired in 2016 with 35 years of service.

Mayme MooreAn outstanding woman who achieved as much for the cause of racial harmony and understanding as anyone in the nation.

Jack NicklausColumbus native Jack Nicklaus is the world’s winningest golfer and holds the all-time record of major golf championships.

Jerry PageAn Olympic Gold Medalist in boxing during the 1984 Summer Olympics, Jerry Page has earned the admiration and respect of all fellow Columbus citizens.

Susan Yvonne PerkinsSusan Perkins is the talented and intelligent woman who was chosen in the 1978 Miss America.

Ned Pettus Jr.Ned Pettus Jr., Ph.D. was appointed Public Safety Director for the City of Columbus by Mayor Andrew M. Ginther on August 1st, 2016, and retired on September 1st, 2021

Elijah PierceA native of northeastern Mississippi and the son of a former slave, Elijah Pierce came to Columbus in 1924.

Rev. Dr. James Preston PoindexterThe Rev. Dr. James Preston Poindexter was a highly respected political and social justice leader in Columbus with influence across the state and the nation during the 19th century.

Bobby RahalA man of many interests and abilities, Bobby Rahal entered his first race, a novice event in Canada, at the age of 17.

Kathleen RansierKathy is a retired partner in the Vorys Columbus office where she was a member of the corporate and finance group.

James A. RhodesThe son of a Jackson County coal miner, James A. Rhodes has compiled a record of public service to Ohio unequaled in the State’s history.

Eddie RickenbackerA World War I flying ace who later became president of Eastern Airlines, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker truly can be called an aviation pioneer.

Aminah RobinsonAminah Brenda Lynn Robinson is one of the most prolific artists living today.

Bishop Jerome H. Ross, Sr.Bishop Jerome H. Ross, Sr., a native of Mansfield, Ohio acknowledged his call to the ministry in 1954 at the age of 15.

Ronald E. RosserRetired Army Sergeant First Class (E-7), Ronald E. Rosser distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty.

Fran RyanFran Ryan has a unique ability to mobilize support to realize a community vision, working tirelessly for decades to make Columbus the best possible place to work, live and raise a family.

John T. RyanJohn T. Ryan forever changed the lives of thousands of students during his fifty years of teaching and coaching at Saint Charles Preparatory and Bishop Hartley High Schools.

James Edward “Eddie” SaundersMr. Saunders is known as the “Dean of Central Ohio Broadcasting” because for more than fifty years he responded to the needs of the people.

Laurel Lea SchaeferLaurel Lea Schaefer, Miss America of 1972, has brought honor to herself and to her community through exemplary conduct and high regard for mankind.

George F. SchmidtGeorge F. Schmidt, Founder of Schmidt’s Restaurant und Sausage Haus, was a civic and community leader and a devoted family man.

Linda SchulerDuring her 30-year career with the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, Linda Schuler saw first-hand the importance of community-based programs.

M. E. SensenbrennerMaynard Edward “Jack” Sensenbrenner served as Mayor of Columbus for an unprecedented fourteen years.

Lucas SullivantLucas Sullivant was a surveyor, soldier and settler in central Ohio in the years after the American Revolution.

R. David ThomasFounder of Wendy’s International restaurant chain, Mr. Thomas credits his childhood as an orphan with instilling his success drive.

James ThurberAn internationally famed writer, artist and cartoonist, James Thurber gave laughter to a world so often burdened with crisis and tragedy.

Howard ThurstonOften called “The World’s Greatest Magician,” Howard Thurston fooled kings and commons and became their friend.

Mary Catherine Campbell TownleyMary Catherine Campbell Townley was crowned Miss America in 1922 and again in 1923, becoming the only two-time winner in the pageant’s history.

Reverend Leon L. Troy Sr.Rev. Troy has held four pastorates in the State of Ohio, including the historical Second Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio.

James R. TruemanTrueman climbed to the pinnacles of success as a businessman and sportsman.

Tuskegee AirmenThe "Tuskegee Airmen" are the participants in an Army Air Corps program that was administered through the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.

Ann B. WalkerAnn B. Walker was the first female and African-American journalist to cover Columbus City Hall and the State of Ohio

Bill WillisA leader in the area of athletics, recreation and youth activities, Bill Willis is a credit to his profession and native city.

Catherine WillisA dedicated community activist for many years, Catherine supported education, the arts, and family advocacy.

Nancy WilsonMulti-talented recording star and actress Nancy Wilson is a favorite of millions of Americans.

Harry Preston WolfeH.P. Wolfe, humanist and entrepreneur and brother, Robert Frederick Wolfe, were long involved in the development of Columbus in character and economic growth

Robert Frederick WolfeR.F. Wolfe, a man of vision and spirit, and brother, Harry Preston Wolfe, were long involved in the development of Columbus in character and economic growth.

Sanborn WoodSanborn Wood, affectionately known as Sandy, is the godfather of Columbus' Short North Arts District

Les WrightDuring her more than six decades of service to the city of Columbus in the public and private sectors, Les Wright was an elected official, an institution builder, and a committed community leader.

FAQs

What is Columbus Ohio's claim to fame? ›

By the end of the 19th century, Columbus was home to several major manufacturing businesses. The city became known as the "Buggy Capital of the World," thanks to the two dozen buggy factories – notably the Columbus Buggy Company, founded in 1875 by C.D.

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Who is the new mayor of Columbus Ohio? ›

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today presented his proposed 2024 Capital Budget, which includes $1.99 billion for crime-fighting tools, technologies and facilities; projects to expand the city's affordable housing stock; new and renovated fire stations; new and improved parks, pools and community centers; resurfaced roadways; ...

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Do I need a permit to build a shed in Columbus, Ohio? ›

Common work that does not require a building permit: One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed one hundred twenty square feet and playground structures. Fences not over six feet (1829 mm) high.

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Is Columbus, OH a nice place to live? ›

Quality of Life: Is Columbus, Ohio a Nice Place to Live? Columbus presents a diverse array of opportunities for its residents, offering a wide range of sports, arts and cultural events, appealing neighborhoods, and more. As one reviewer on Niche.com writes, "Almost anyone can find something they enjoy here to do.”

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Why is Columbus Ohio so important? ›

Columbus became one of the country's major manufacturers of horse-drawn vehicles. By 1900, when the population exceeded 125,000, the city had emerged as an important transportation and commercial centre.

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Why are the Hall of Fames in Ohio? ›

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is located in Canton, Ohio, for three primary reasons. (1) The American Professional Football Association, later renamed the National Football League, was founded in Canton on Sept. 17, 1920. (2) The Canton Bulldogs were an early pro football power, even before the days of the NFL.

Who is the comedian Mayor of Ohio? ›

Drew Hastings

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How many schools are in Columbus, Ohio? ›

Overview of Columbus City School District

Columbus City School District contains 117 schools and 45,547 students.

Who is the new bishop of Columbus Ohio? ›

Earl Kenneth Fernandes (born September 21, 1972) is a Roman Catholic prelate who has served as bishop of the Diocese of Columbus in Ohio since 2022. S.T.D., D.D. Fernandes is the first Indian-American bishop in the United States and the first person of color to serve as the bishop of Columbus.

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Do I need a permit to remodel my bathroom in Ohio? ›

Most kitchen and bathroom remodels require permits (approvals). A counter or cabinet installation where plumbing and electrical work is not impacted likely does not require a permit.

Is it legal to live in a shed in Ohio? ›

Different states also pose restrictions on the size of your shed. For example, Ohio allows sheds that meet certain size limitations, typically under 200 square feet, to be turned into tiny homes.

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What can a homeowner do without a permit in Ohio? ›

Construction and repairs for 1, 2, and 3 family dwellings are exempt from permit requirements as follows:

Fences 6 feet or less in height (Historic)
Repair and replacement of windows (no increase in opening size) or along fire escapes.
Roof coverings (no more than two layers of roofing material)

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Where is the most expensive place to live in Columbus Ohio? ›

German Village

With a median home price of $705,741 and a median rent of $1,352, German Village is the most expensive neighborhood on our list. Based on the growth in home prices in German Village over the last 3 years, it ranks No. 1 among all the neighborhoods in Columbus.

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Is Columbus a clean city? ›

A new study out today names Columbus as the most polluted major city in the United States for 2023 and says it's the second year running for Ohio's capital.

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What is Cleveland Ohio's claim to fame? ›

With its extensive cleanup of its Lake Erie shore and the Cuyahoga River, Cleveland has been recognized by national media as an environmental success story and a national leader in environmental protection.

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How does Columbus Ohio make money? ›

About the City of Columbus

The Columbus economy is balanced with a combination of education, technology, government, research, insurance and health care entities as major employers within the City.

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Did Columbus Ohio ever have a professional football team? ›

The Columbus Panhandles were a professional American football team based in Columbus, Ohio. The club was founded in 1901 by workers at the Panhandle shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad. They were a part of the Ohio League from 1904 before folding after one season.

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