Why is There A Random Field of Giant Concrete Corn in Ohio?
A couple of years ago, my family was preparing for a trip to Columbus, Ohio, for a weekend. Our only plan was to go to Legoland, so we had plenty of time to do whatever else we wanted. I let my son, Rollins (who was nine at the time), do some research to see if anything in the area tickled his fancy.
Family Fun in Columbus, Ohio
I knew there was a great zoo, an amazing science center, and some interactive art exhibits. Well, I wasn’t really considering the fact that nine-year-olds can be kinda weird. Y’all will never guess what he chose for his afternoon activity.
Field of Concrete Corn
Located in Dublin, Ohio, on former farmland now named Sam and Eulalia Frantz Park, is a Field of Corn.
Cornhenge
You wouldn’t want to sink your teeth into these bad boys, though; they’d chip your chompers! Also known as “Cornhenge,” this art installation consists of rows of 109 human-sized concrete ears of corn! On one end of the field are markers to explain the meaning behind this public exhibit by a couple of gorgeous Osage Orange Trees.
The History of the Giant Corn
Sculpted by artist Malcolm Cochran in 1994 as a tribute to Sam Frantz, inventor of hybrid species of corn, this award-winning monument also serves as a reminder of Central Ohio’s rich agricultural past in an area that had seen farmland transformed into modern suburbia.
Mixed Reviews
Initially, this project was not well received by the community because of the goofy nature of the idea. However, its quirky appeal has become a popular roadside attraction over the years. When Rollins told us about this place, we were surprised that something like this existed, but totally hooked! It’s such a unique idea that we had to check it out.
World's Largest Sculptures
I have always thought it would be fun to make a list of other weird public art and “world’s largest” sculptures to plan a road trip around. What are some interesting places you would recommend visiting?
LOOK: 25 must-visit hidden gems from across the US
Gallery Credit: Abby Monteil
