November 12, 2024 – On the third floor of Building 64 on Fort Hayes campus is a new exhibit showcasing the military history of the campus, formerly known as Columbus Barracks before being renamed in honor of Ohio native and 19th U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes.
The exhibit features old maps, postcards, photos, and journals of servicemen who once served at the campus. It is named for Lt. Col. Richard Hoffman, a Vietnam veteran who was stationed at Fort Hayes during his military service and contributed many display items.
“This is really our collection,” Fort Hayes history teacher Eric East said. The exhibit will continue to be curated by the student-led Fort Hayes Historical Society.
Ten years in the making, Fort Hayes Historical Society students and East worked diligently to bring the campus’ military history to life. The exhibit’s unveiling on Nov. 11 coincided with Veterans Day.
East first began teaching at Fort Hayes when the campus was still active with military life. The National Guard was present on campus until 2009.
“When I first started here in 1999, we would see soldiers marching around campus and Humvees parked,” East said.
In 2014, East began collecting Fort Hayes memorabilia for the school. While he has not tallied the number of archival items in his collection, he estimates it to be in the hundreds, as benefactors and families continue to donate. The quality of items continues to impress visitors.
“It’s amazing what people donate,” East said, pointing to postcards that sell online for $20 each.
Following a tribute to veterans that included a rendition of “Taps” and a parade by the Fort Hayes Air Force Junior ROTC, guests were invited to tour the exhibit. One guest was veteran Sgt. Thomas Herbert. The New York native served in the U.S. Army from 1976 to 1982, before moving to Columbus. He was impressed by the campus and exhibit and said it served as inspiration for future generations.
“These young kids need to understand that we have to fight for this country and democracy to keep everyone safe,” Herbert said.
