Columbus, OH – Despite the presence of several professional sports teams in Columbus - the Blue Jackets, Destroyers, Comets and Crew - most sports fans see Ohio's capital as Buckeye country. Still, some have longed for the arrival of one of the so-called major sports - baseball, basketball and football. A pro football team did have a home in Columbus, even though it's rarely received any recognition until now. In a new book, NFL Films head researcher Chris Willis chronicles the Columbus Panhandles - a team formed in 1901 by a group of railroad workers and comprised primarily of one large Columbus family. In a conversation with Mike Foley, Willis shares stories about the Pandhanles and admits being surprised to learn that pro football once had a home in Columbus.
Please note the ceremony referenced at the end of the interview took place July 28.