State Auto Moves Nativity Scene

By Joe Blundo, The Columbus Dispatch, Ohio

Oct. 29--One of central Ohio's long-running holiday traditions is getting a makeover and a new location this year.

The State Auto Insurance Companies' Nativity display -- an elaborate exhibit erected at Christmastime since the 1950s in front of the insurance company's headquarters, 518 E. Broad St. -- will move around the corner to a park on the east side of the property.

"We think it will deliver much more of an experience for visitors," spokesman Kyle Anderson said. "At the same time, we're going to add to the Christmas decorations on the building itself."

Visitors will be able to walk among the Nativity figures instead of just viewing them from the sidewalk along E. Broad, Anderson said. The figures will be organized into six scenes depicting various events in the Nativity story.

Parking will be available in the company lots adjacent to the building and across Broad.

In addition, Anderson said, the display will include a voice-guided tour that visitors can access via cell phone.

The company acknowledged that the move might surprise some area residents.

Gianna Miner of Columbus, who considers viewing the display a tradition, said she'll withhold judgment until she sees the new setup.

"I would like to see it stay where it is. But if that can't be, then I don't mind seeing it go on the side."

Christine Togni of Worthington said she enjoyed the Broad Street presentation but will take what she can get.

"Better they move it than they don't do it at all," Togni said.

State Auto began decorating its buildings for Christmas in 1931 as a way to lift spirits during the Depression, according to a company history.

The displays have changed through the years.

The familiar Nativity scene, a collection of dozens of life-size figures that eventually stretched 140 feet along E. Broad, was introduced in the '50s; it, too, has been modified over time.

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