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🎡 Summer nostalgia ghosts

Franklin County • June 9, 2025

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Good morning, Franklin County. Long before waterparks and Cedar Point dominated Ohio summers, Columbus had its own magical escape at Olentangy Park. From 1899 until the Great Depression claimed it in 1937, this streetcar-accessible wonderland boasted the Midwest's largest swimming pool, thrilling rollercoasters, and even an elephant. Though now replaced by apartment buildings, the memories remain preserved in the Columbus Metropolitan Library's archives—a testament to how our city has always known how to have fun.

The ghosts of Columbus past continue with the tale of Central Market, which served downtown for 152 years before falling to controversial demolition in 1966. While we can't reclaim these historic treasures, we can create new memories at Hilliard's Freedom Fest this July 4th, where country star Gabby Barrett will headline a free celebration featuring live music, fireworks, and family activities at Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🎢 Columbus once had a magical summer getaway right in town. Olentangy Park, which began as "The Villa" in 1880, evolved into the premier amusement destination in Columbus after being purchased and renamed in 1899. Accessible by streetcar, the park featured thrilling rollercoasters, the Midwest's largest swimming pool, a zoo with an elephant, and popular live entertainment. Despite its success, the Great Depression led to the park's decline, and it permanently closed in 1937 to make way for what is now Olentangy Village Apartments. Though gone, the park's memory lives on through photographs, postcards, and first-hand accounts preserved by the Columbus Metropolitan Library.

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🏪 Columbus' historic Central Market met the wrecking ball after 152 years. The market at Fourth and Rich streets served Downtown Columbus from 1850 until its controversial demolition in 1966. Originally built on land sold by Thomas and Sarah Asbury with the provision it only be used as a market, the site became a hub where generations of families bought fresh local produce, baked goods, and meats. Despite legal challenges from Asbury heirs and public opposition, the market was razed during urban renewal efforts. The site later became a Greyhound bus station and is now owned by the Central Ohio Transit Authority for redevelopment.

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🎵 Country star Gabby Barrett to headline Hilliard's Freedom Fest. The multi-platinum award winner will perform at the free July 4th celebration in Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park. Barrett, known for her 8x Platinum #1 hit "I Hope" and multiple industry awards, will take the main stage as part of her "Life I'm Living Tour 2025." The festival will also feature opening acts Alan Carl Band and Dillon Carmichael, plus fireworks, a kid zone, and food trucks. Entertainment begins at 5:15 p.m., with attendees welcome to set up as early as 10 a.m.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Budget beauty fully updated now: This move-in ready home, priced at $199,700, boasts all the essentials with its new roof, HVAC, windows, updated kitchen and bath, plus fresh flooring throughout. The recently refreshed property awaits its next owner.
Real estate listing image Affordable home Garage plus storage: This cozy three-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home is priced at $280,000, featuring kitchen updates, new sliding glass doors, a fenced backyard, and ample storage in both the heated garage and large storage building.
Real estate listing image Modern urban living near downtown: This move-in ready $455,000 home in Grove City's Beulah Park offers 3 bedrooms, modern amenities, and walkable access to downtown attractions—perfect for those seeking stylish, low-maintenance living with urban convenience.
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