Rep. Jarrells to introduce bill to designate Poindexter Village as Ohio historical site

State Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) marked the start of Black History Month today by announcing he will soon introduce legislation to designate Columbus’ Poindexter Village as an official Ohio Historical Site. Jarrells says adding Poindexter Village to the Ohio History Connection’s network of historic places will help celebrate Ohio’s Black history by telling the story of the state’s Black communities in the mid-20th century.

"As one of Columbus’ most historic neighborhoods, Poindexter Village was a thriving oasis of music, art, and culture for so many Black families,” said Rep. Jarrells. “Designating Poindexter Village as a historical site with the Ohio History Connection ensures the history of this beautiful community will never be forgotten."

Named for James Preston Poindexter, a minister, civil rights advocate and community leader, the Poindexter Village was dedicated in Oct. 1940 by President Franklin Roosevelt as one of the nation’s first public housing projects. Poindexter played a significant role in Columbus’ Black community in the 1940s and 50s, and the two remaining buildings are set to become a public history museum.

Jarrells’ forthcoming legislation is a companion bill to Sen. Hearcel Craig’s (D-Columbus) proposal in the state Senate.