You won't believe this Columbus preservation effort

Okay, so picture this—we're talking about a project that's been in the works for *over a decade*, with roots stretching all the way back to President Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal. Groundbreaking just happened this week on an effort to preserve the memory of Poindexter Village, a really historic neighborhood right here in Columbus. This isn't just about old buildings; it's about making sure we don't forget the stories of a community that was absolutely central to Black life and culture in Columbus for generations. We're talking about a place where legends like Olympic gold medalist Jesse Owens lived, where folks built lives and dreams. This preservation isn't just about brick and mortar, chale, it’s about the soul of this city.

Here's what nobody's telling you about why this matters so much for Columbus. Poindexter Village, located just east of Downtown and not far from the Franklin Park Conservatory, was one of the nation's very first public housing projects. It was built during a time when segregation was the law of the land, and it provided a safe, thriving community for Black families. Over the years, like many urban communities, it faced challenges and most of the original structures were demolished. But what remained, and what's being preserved now, is a powerful reminder of resilience and community building.

* **A Link to Our Past:** This project ensures that future generations understand a critical chapter in Columbus's history, especially regarding urban development and racial equity.

* **More Than Just Buildings:** It's about remembering the people, the culture, and the contributions that came out of Poindexter Village, shaping the Columbus we know today.

* **Community Pride:** For many longtime Columbus residents, especially those whose families lived there, this is a profound moment of recognition and respect.

This preservation effort isn't just some dusty historical footnote. It's a living testament to Columbus's journey, reminding us of where we've been and the communities that built us. It's about making sure that as Columbus grows and changes, we don't erase the foundations that made us who we are. We're not a flyover; we're the destination they haven't found yet, and knowing our history is part of that.

C-Bus on the wire — we're just getting started.

My folks break down stories like this every morning – catch it live at mornings.live.