In the northeast corner of Franklin County, about 14 miles from downtown Columbus, is the community of Westerville. Founded in 1806 by a group of New England settlers, this quiet town became known as the "Dry Capital of the World" when, in 1918, it became the headquarters of the Anti-Saloon League. It was here that the 18th Amendment, which ushered in Prohibition, was authored.
Today, Westerville is a mix of the old and the new. The "Uptown Westerville" business district is charming and old-fashioned and is surrounded by nostalgic old homes. There are several museums and bed-and-breakfasts and the town remains "dry" in honor of its heritage. But shopping centers, restaurants, health clubs and many modern housing developments have brought Westerville into the 20th century. Its population is now over 34,000 and it now covers an area of more than 10 square miles.
Many kinds of homes can be found in the Westerville area--from an old in-town cottage to a newer home in a family-oriented subdivision. Prices fall between $90,000 and $500,000.
Westerville has a large, well-run school system consisting of 14 elementary schools, 3 middle schools and 2 high schools. It is also the home of Otterbein College, a small, private liberal arts college known, among other things, for its drama department. Otterbein's productions are highly regarded and are open to the public.
The area has 13 parks and is the home of the 91-acre Inniswood Metro Gardens. For sailing, fishing and picnicking enthusiasts, scenic Hoover Reservoir is located at the edge of the city, The Parks & Recreation Department offers year-round programs for residents of all ages. |
