By Kieran Robertson
Do you play Pokémon Go? Even if you haven’t played the game yourself, you’ve likely spotted it on the news or seen your friends’ Pokémon pictures on social media. But what does this have to do with Ohio history?
This new cell phone app has players walking all over town to track down Pokémon and Pokéstops or to battle for ownership of gyms. Users can track down and catch Pokémon in real life locations. For example, here is a Squirtle I met in the park.
Still confused about Pokémon Go? Check out their website
here.
The app encourages physical activity, as it requires visits to local sites of interest to grab supplies at a Pokéstop or take control of a gym.
Are you a Pokémon trainer, but also a history enthusiast? Are you looking to learn more about those Pokéstops you have been eagerly searching for? Lucky for you, the Ohio History Connection and the Ohio Village in Columbus are filled with historically important Pokéstops! In addition, both the museum and the village have been declared gyms.
The Conway Mastodon at the Ohio History Center is a Pokéstop. When you encounter these sites, don't forget to read a little about them and look up to enjoy the real thing!
So come on by the museum, and bring your Pokémon with you! Just don’t forget to do as the app suggests and “stay aware of your surroundings.” Who knows what you might learn!
For those Pokémon trainers not in Columbus, don’t despair! Check out our list of historic sites across Ohio right here. While I have not personally taken my Pokédex across the state to search for Pokéstops and gyms, there’s a good chance that some of these sites are included in the game!
Have you learned something really interesting about Ohio history while playing Pokémon Go? Discovered a new historic site that you’re crazy about? Tell us your story in the comments below!
