Bringing Sparkles to the Ohio State House
On a recent girl’s trip to Columbus with my granddaughters, we made our way downtown to attend a “princess” concert; hence the sparkles and glitter adorned accessories. We had some extra time before the event was scheduled to begin, so I suggested we make a visit to the Ohio State House which sits prominently inside the impressive Capitol Square grounds.
We ascended the steps and entered the building only to be met by the friendliest security team who invited us through the metal detectors. Their welcoming demeanors set the tone for these young girls who came to learn and discover. You can never underestimate the power of a warm welcome.
Upon entering the storied building, I reminded the girls that this is where the state government works, also known as the Ohio General Assembly. We noted the corridor that led to the Ohio Senate chamber and the opposite corridor that led to the House chamber. We stood in the middle of the Rotunda and felt the significance of our state’s history. The large open space is decorated with artwork and historical displays that celebrate the state's heritage. I wondered out loud with the girls, imagining the historical dignitaries who walked these same spaces. Breaking it down a bit further for my littlest one, (Natalie, age almost 4) I told her this is where the governor works. Not wanting any to outshine her pint-sized world, Natalie replied, “Well, this is where my daddy works, too.” That’s not true, but I appreciate that she equated the impressive limestone majesty with her love for her dad. Apparently, no one eclipses him, not even the governor.
We then strolled up the stairs and meandered the halls. I heard the echoes of the past 187-year history since the building’s construction began in 1839. I envisioned the political leaders, military heroes, and curious citizens (like us) who walked these same halls. I became engulfed in awe.
Of course, we needed to make a stop in the gift shop. On our way, the girls played a hopscotch-type game on the Map Room Floor. There, a marble laid pattern of Ohio’s 88 counties covers the expanse of the grand floor space. The girls hopped from Montgomery County to Franklin County to Preble County and back again. We made our way into the gift shop to peruse. Who doesn’t need a pencil engraved with the names of all US Presidents from Ohio? And what about a miniature Ohio license plate key chain personalized with your name? Such were delightful finds for my girls.
We exited the building to explore the grounds surrounding the State House. Our stroll along the walkways featured monuments and memorials honoring notable Ohioans and veterans. I loved how accessible Ohio’s history was to my granddaughters. They frolicked along the pathways, climbing on anything that didn’t give me heart palpitations. The various monuments remind us of the sacrifices and achievements of people who helped shape both our state and the nation. There was a young couple amid a photo shoot. I know this area often hosts community events, ceremonies, and celebrations throughout the year, making Capitol Square a gathering place for people from across Ohio. I felt the openhearted spirit of the space.
Later, on our drive home, I told the girls that our visit to the State House was my favorite part of the day. Perhaps, there might be a time when we return to the State House, and just maybe I'll proudly watch as one of them is sworn into office. Governor Natalie has a pretty good ring to it, sparkles and all.