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Minstrel shows
In the early part of the twentieth century, many Clintonville organizations and churches held minstrel shows, as fundraisers and for entertainment. I chose not to sanitize minstrel shows from my book, because they were an authentic part of Clintonville’s history, albeit the part we are all glad we’ve done away with. I regret any offense or hurt caused by these pictures.
Standard Oil Station is Outstanding!
This cute gas station was located at the northern end of the Olentangy Village shopping area in 1939. Today, it is Oldskool restaurant. Is today’s restaurant the same (original) building? I think so. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Goodrich)
The wild Indian Springs
Old maps show at least 3 “Indian springs” within Clintonville. Overbrook Ravine, one of the Indian springs, was untamed and picturesque. Lore has it that Indians harvested cranberries along the brook. (Photo courtesy of Galen Gonser)
Gratziano’s
Joe Gratziano owned this market on the corner of North Broadway and High Street. It was a one-story brick building. Until quite recently, this building was still there but covered up. Note the house to the south of Gratziano’s, which exists today. Clinton Theatre had not yet been built.
Gratziano—or his descendants—eventually moved the market farther south on North High Street. One of the residents on West Como told me that the Gratziano family also operated a market in a building along what is now an alley between Como and Lakeview, north of Milton.
Engine House 13
This photograph shows the original Engine House 13 (Originally called Chemical House #2) which was located at the southeast corner of North High Street and Wilcox. Built in 1892, it was a 2-bay station with a hose and belltower. In 1898 an addition was built on the station to accommodate a new steamer.
Engine House 13-Cont’d
The current Engine House #13 was dedicated on September 1, 1957, and is located at Arcadia and Deming. Architect of the current building is Freshwater and Harrison. This is a photograph of the dedication. (Photo courtesy of Central Ohio Fire Museum)
