Some People Don’t Know That Cincinnati Was The First To Do These 10 Things
By Andrea Limke|Updated on June 12, 2023(Originally published June 07, 2023)
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
We all know there are lots of Ohio firsts throughout history. The state has a long and storied past that involves world records, notable inventions, and unique achievements. But what about our darling Cincy? Cincinnati has many claims to fame, from our beautiful skyline to the way we enjoy our chili. But you might not know that the Queen City has changed the world in other ways, too. There are lots of things Cincinnati did first that have quite literally affected the world. Some of these inventions from Cincinnati are well-known, but chances are good that at least a few of them will surprise you. It’s always fun to learn new bits of history about our hometown, isn’t it? Check out these things invented in Cincinnati:
1. Our first professional baseball team was actually called the Red Stockings.
Of course, our beloved Reds are always going to be #1 in our hearts, but they actually weren't #1 chronologically. The Cincinnati Red Stockings were actually the first professional baseball team. It all began with ten salaried players. In their first year, they had a perfect record, with zero losses. In 1953, their name was changed to the Redlegs, but it changed to the Reds within three years.
2. Cincinnati was once home to the very first person to walk on the moon.
Cincinnati is very proud to say that Neil Armstrong called our town home for a number of years. He was born in Wapakoneta, about two hours from Cincy. This innovative adventurer captured the hearts of the world with his endeavors. After retirement, he lived a quiet life in Cincinnati until his death in 2012.
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3. We were home to the first professional fire department in the United States.
This is a pretty major invention from Cincinnati! In 1853, Cincinnati established the first professional and fully paid fire department in the country. Today, you can visit the Fire Museum in downtown Cincinnati that celebrates this accomplishment. The museum houses a fascinating display of history, with plenty of interactive exhibits the whole family can enjoy.
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4. The first train robbery in U.S. history occurred near Cincinnati.
Well, this one's not the nicest thing Cincinnati did first, but in 1865, the first train robbery in the United States took place in North Bend. About a dozen men tore up tracks to derail a train that had just departed from Cincinnati. Approximately 100 passengers were held at gunpoint while being robbed of their cash and possessions. The thieves took off across the Ohio River and were never captured.
5. We are home to the first licensed public TV station in the United States.
Did you know that Cincinnati's WCET was the first licensed public television in the United States? Today, it's known as simply CET, but it still provides free news and entertainment to locals and is, of course, supported by "viewers like you.|
The Ingalls Building in downtown Cincinnati made history. Constructed in 1903, it's the world's first reinforced concrete skyscraper. By today's standards, the 16-story building on the corner of 4th and Vine seems almost tiny! If you really stop and look at it, you'll be amazed by this architectural wonder built over a century ago.
7. Cincinnati is home to the first Jewish hospital, pictured in 1917.
The Jewish Hospital was established in 1847 and continues to be an important part of the Cincinnati medical community even today. It was initially built to treat Jewish citizens who were suffering from a cholera outbreak at the time. At traditional Christian hospitals, there was no guarantee that Kosher food would be served, and Christian priests often tried to convert patients on their deathbeds.
8. The first co-op program in the country was established at the University of Cincinnati.
The University of Cincinnati has always made a name for itself and our city. One of its innovative ideas came back in 1906, with the advent of the first co-op program in the United States. This program continues today, giving students an edge by allowing them to spend valuable time in their respective career fields.
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9. The first manufacturing company founded by a woman was located right here in Cincinnati.
The gorgeous work of Rookwood Pottery adorns many historic homes throughout the Queen City. You might not know that Maria Longworth Nichols Storer founded the company in 1880. She was the first woman to venture into this line of work professionally. The company continues to thrive today with a modern take on its classic designs.
10. The first (unofficial) air mail was delivered from Cincinnati.
In 1835, a well-known balloonist named Richard Clayton boarded his hot air balloon with a small package aboard. His flight took place on July 4 and was part of a celebration. His delivery of the package to its destination was the first unofficial air mail trip in the country. His balloon looked a bit different than the ones pictured above, but still, you get the idea!
Did you know about any of these things Cincinnati did first? If you know of any other things invented in Cincinnati, share them in the comments! We love hearing Queen City facts.
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More to Explore
Ohio Firsts
Lisa Sammons|June 12, 2023
What are some more things invented in Ohio, outside of Cincinnati?
Cleveland has actually been home to several big inventions, too. Both the electric streetlight and the streetcar were invented in Cleveland. Perhaps a less important Ohio first, but certainly more delicious, was the beloved Life Saver candy: it was invented by a Cleveland chocolate manufacturer!
Are there any other things Cincinnati did first?
Did you know we were the first municipality to own a railroad? We also had the first fire pole in a fire station. It was also the first settlement in Ohio to publish a newspaper - way back in 1793!
