The 1962 Columbus phone book lists the Crump Theatre at 425 3rd Street, and for all practical purposes, that's close enough (if the address has changed since then). One block away from the Courthouse, the Crump is currently undergoing major renovation for the 4th time in its 113 year life. A week or two before Christmas last year (2001), exterior work was finished, and Columbus residents were treated to a "lit-up" marquee for several nights. Flashing yellow bulbs chasing bulbs across the marquee was a visual, nostalgic, unexpected present to the eyes of Columbus.
    The Crump Theatre building was completed in 1874, but didn't become an "opera house" until 1889. In 1934, the Crump was almost renamed the "Von Ritz," with the completion of interior remodeling which expanded lower level seating by removing the orchestra pit. In 1987, the owners of the Crump take bids to demolish the building, due to poor ticket sales.
      Throughout all the changes the Crump has undergone, it remains a nostalgic landmark for many long time Columbus residents, including me (see my Crump link on the welcome page)....