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Historic museum interior exhibits

Columbus Historical Society, Columbus, Ohio

Step into the 1807 Harrison House on a summer Friday and you are likely to be greeted by a docent who knows the room-by-room stories of early Columbus. A short talk often starts around 1 p.m., then you can wander through first-floor spaces, peek toward the Sullivant Land Office out back, and ask questions about how Franklinton became the city’s starting point.

Columbus Historical Society (CHS) programs focus on the people, places, and turning points that shaped the city, with an emphasis on Franklinton’s pioneer era. During seasonal open-house hours, staff and volunteers walk visitors through the Harrison House and the restored Sullivant Land Office, answering questions and pointing out details that are easy to miss without a guide. Outside of those times, CHS hosts talks and one-off programs that range from neighborhood history to themed evenings tied to larger statewide initiatives.

CHS maintains an office and workspace on West Town Street, where staff handle collections, membership, and inquiries by appointment. The organization is also renovating the historic Engine House No. 6 on West Broad Street to serve as its permanent museum home, with plans for exhibits, a research library, and community programming once the doors open. Until then, the Harrison House and Land Office serve as the places where most visitors will get their first in-person look at CHS’s work.

Access is straightforward. The Harrison House first floor is reachable via a ramp at the rear entrance and includes an accessible restroom. The second floor is not currently open to the public. Parking is available behind the Harrison House or along nearby streets, and CHS’s West Town Street office has its own small lot. Many public programs are free, while special events may require a ticket or advance registration.

  • Neighborhood: Franklinton.
  • Where you’ll go: Harrison House (570 W Broad St) and the Sullivant Land Office (13 N Gift St). CHS office at 717 W Town St.
  • Hours: Hours vary; look for seasonal Friday open houses in summer from 12 p.m.–3 p.m. Office hours are by appointment on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday.
  • Admission: Many programs are free; select events may be ticketed or require registration.
  • Known for: Guided visits at the 1807 Harrison House and 1822 Sullivant Land Office, and the ongoing restoration of historic Engine House No. 6 as CHS’s future museum home.
  • Accessibility: First-floor access to the Harrison House via rear ramp; second floor not open to the public.

If you want a concise, on-the-ground introduction to Columbus history with real places you can step inside, start here and check the current program schedule before you go.

Published: August 28, 2026