Location: Center of Science and Industry (COSI), 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

I remember going to COSI each year with my classes at Innis Elementary school. The original COSI was located at Franklin County’s old Memorial Hall at 280 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215. On November 6, 1999, COSI moved to 333 West Broad Street., Columbus, OH 43215. I remember a few of the exhibits from back in the day that are also at COSI now.

The pendulum in the lobby area would knock over one of 114 pegs. The Foucault pendulum demonstrates the Earth is spinning.

The high wire unicycle is the only one in the world. A person can ride the unicycle 17 fee above the ground along a 84-food cable. It is safe because the 250 counterweight drops the cycle center of weight. It’s science stuff…

Sidebar: I admire anyone who attempts this! As a youth, I was too afraid to try this. (And I still won’t today) I was glad each year when our teacher told us we did not have time to try it. At a recent visit to the new COSI, I witnessed a person freeze while riding the unicycle. The volunteers were able to pull the person back to “safety” with a long pole with a hook at the end of it. The person was embarrassed and even teased by those in their party. My thought? She was brave to try.

Other than the cool things learned and the cool ways to learn, another memory is; COSI gave out a free coupon for a Wendy’s frosty and a discount hamburger and French fries at the original (first) Wendy’s which was located across the street from COSI. The original Wendy’s closed March 2, 2007.

My take on COSI:

I loved all the things I learned some 40 years ago. COSI was a field trip that I looked forward to not only for; what I learned but also a chance to have fun with friends and a change of environment. Today, COSI is a great place to spend time with family, friends, and most of all children.