Flytown

Flytown was democracy’s melting pot for
the city of Columbus. But even more important
it became known as a port-of-entry for the
immigrant settlers of Central Ohio. New
arrivals found friends and relatives who
guided them through the initial steps of
becoming naturalized Americans. Here was born
a feeling of comradeship that led to patriotic
loyalty that knew no division. Seventeen
nationalities contributed of their knowledge and experience to the community spirit and culture of Flytown. This is a section of Columbus that has become known and respected the width and breadth of the land.

In 1865 the district of Columbus known as Flytown was subdivided into city lots. Brick and frame houses dotted the area and a friendly community soon emerged. Industry did not locate here because of the lack of necessary facilities. In order to obtain water, light and power, the district was annexed to the city in 1880. Industry began to move in since building sites were cheap, railroads and highways provided transportation, and water became available. An iron foundry was established in 1870 to be followed a few years later by The United States Pipe and Foundry Company. In 1900 the Columbus Forge and Iron Company and The Commercial Paste Company built plants in Flytown. In 1901 The Franklin Lumber and Furniture Company was founded and shops were constructed by The Columbus, Piqua and Indianapolis Railroad. All of these plants and others employed immigrant workmen—Germans, Irish, Negroes, Italians, Swedes, Jewish, Greeks, Hungarians and others. When Rosenthal Brothers – Wool-Pullers, located on Spruce Street, there were no houses for their employees. A building marathon ensued. It is said that houses literally “flew-up” overnight—thus the name “Flytown” was coined.