Westerville’s Abandoned Armory

Much like any town, Westerville Ohio prides itself on its history. Westerville was once known as the “driest town in the nation”, coined after the start of Prohibition in the twenties; which originated from Westerville. Even since prohibition has ended, there are only a handful of bars in historic uptown Westerville. Down State street, past there is an armory that has been decommissioned for quite some time. The structure was created in 1946, just a year after World War II ended. The building was used for years storing munitions and other various military utilities up until 1984 when it was decommissioned from service. This building has stood for many years and will stand for many more to come. It currently lies abandoned. Though it was constructed during a time of peace, this facility acted as a safeguard for Westerville as much as it was for Columbus if any action were to happen during the Cold War.

While trying to research this building, there is no recollection of the armory, even with the unlimited information of the internet. The history of this building was derived from Westerville’s public library with the help of a studied librarian. The information on this building is much like its perception among today’s inhabitants of Westerville, hidden.

Back in its prime this place served as a place of safety from any danger. Not too far from the armory is the Westerville police station which also serves to protect the people. The Armory should be revived as a federal office of the sort. This use of the building would maximize the space that it is allotted. The parking for the offices is gated off and behind the armory which offers security to the vehicles. The buildings architecture is very serious and looks like it has been there for ages. This is a good attribute because it characteristically represents the U.S. government being a strong and ever-lasting democracy. This building would be commissioned by the federal government for the government, and would bring jobs to Westerville.

-Justin Nguyen