History of Station 67

Station 67, home of Columbus Firefighters Local 67, stands as one of Columbus’s most distinctive and enduring landmarks. Originally built between 1895 and 1896 for the Toledo & Ohio Central Railroad, the station opened its doors on April 18, 1896. Its striking pagoda‑inspired clocktower, eclectic brickwork, and bold architectural flourishes were designed by the renowned Columbus firm Yost & Packard, who intended the building to impress travelers and symbolize the railroad’s prosperity. More than a century later, the tower still turns heads on West Broad Street.

When the station first opened, trains ran at ground level beside the building. But as Columbus grew and Broad Street became busier, the railroad elevated its tracks in 1911, prompting modifications so passengers could reach the new second‑floor boarding platform. For decades, the station served as a gateway to the city’s west side—until 1930, when passenger service moved to Union Station and the building fell silent.

A new chapter began in 1931 when Volunteers of America purchased the property. For more than 70 years, the organization used the station as offices, shelter space, and a community gathering hall. Despite fires in 1910 and 1975, and major floods in 1913 and 1957, the building was repeatedly repaired and restored, a testament to the dedication of its caretakers. In recognition of its architectural and historical significance, the station was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

By the early 2000s, the building sat vacant—until Columbus Firefighters Local 67 stepped in. In 2007, the union purchased and restored the station, removing an adjacent thrift store building and adding a complementary expansion designed by Moody Nolan. Their work preserved the building’s character while preparing it for its new life as a union hall, meeting space, and community venue.

Today, Station 67 is the last remaining historic train station in Columbus. Its mahogany‑lined waiting room, Italian marble floors, barrel‑vaulted ceiling, and whimsical architectural details continue to inspire visitors much as they did in the 1890s. More than a headquarters, it is a living piece of Columbus history—rescued, restored, and proudly maintained by the firefighters who call it home.