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Columbus, Ohio: Doorway Arch Faces

In the late 19th century, the Ohio School For the Deaf thought it was perfectly fine to surround its entrance doorway with large, sculpted, gargoyle-like heads.

Cristo Rey Columbus High School

Address:
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH
Directions:
East side of downtown. The doorway faces east, onto Topiary Park, in the middle of a block bordered by E. Town St., S. Washington Ave., Library Park N., and S. Grant Ave.
Admission:
Free
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Visitor Tips and News About Doorway Arch Faces

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Stone heads.

Doorway Arch Faces

On east side of building. Street parking. Two entrances with stone faces, staring back at you.

[Stephen Francia, 08/28/2021]
Doorway Arch Faces

This doorway is blocked off. The school for the deaf is currently being used as a different school -- maybe a charter school? -- and the parking lot that used to provide access to the doorway is now gated. But never fear: if you walk next door to the Topiary Park you can get a good look at the doorway. You can't get up close, but you can easily see it and the zoom on your camera will work for some great pictures.

[angela ryan, 08/02/2021]
Doorway Arch Faces

Faces sweet, almost kind, a nice welcome to people who put great value and understand best facial expressions and visual communication. Your Freaky decision is really art ignorant and disability blind.

[Pat Fallon, 03/31/2017]

Faces on the archway entrance.

Doorway Arch Faces

It is now the Cristo Rey Columbus High School. I'd say you must check out all of the faces as they are freaky cool. Recommend going on the weekend in the AM.

[Dj, 03/31/2015]

Entrance face.

Crazy Faces in Doorways

The former Ohio School For the Deaf has strange faces attached to both arched entrances to the building. They are sort of like gargoyles, but without a body, and they all have bizarre expressions. The Gothic Revival building was built in 1898-99 and was used as the deaf school until 1953. After that it was abandoned for years, but has recently become an office building.

[signmanjoe, 11/16/2014]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Topiary French PeopleTopiary French People, Columbus, OH - < 1 mi.
Site of the First Wendy's RestaurantSite of the First Wendy's Restaurant, Columbus, OH - < 1 mi.
Monument to Ohio TeachersMonument to Ohio Teachers, Columbus, OH - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Central Ohio Fire Museum, Columbus, OH - < 1 mi.

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