Mirror Lake

What a wonderful place.
Whether you are visiting as a prospective student, dodging the Muscovy Ducks in the fall, jumping into the frigid lake the week we play TTUN, enjoying a Christmas lit walk in December, or having lunch on a Spring evening. Mirror Lake is one of the best places to be on campus. I often found myself walking out of my way just to cross through on my way to my destination.
One story that always stays with me is one told by my father. «After beating scUM they took down the field goal posts and brought them all the way to Mirror Lake.» I always want to jump in mirror lake.

Why is the Ohio State University in Columbus and not in its own small college town? Because of this: Mirror Lake.
Legend goes that when congress passed the Moral Act creating land grant institutions, and the expected political battle to where to put the institution occurred, the deciding factor for the original trustees was when «A Dutchman» drank water from Mirror Lake and said it was the sweetest water he ever had.
I don’t recommend drinking the water today. Not after the annual plop into the lake students take during Michigan week, which your truly has experienced both as a student an a middle aged adult. One witness of the cheerful debauchery of that may swear you away from all water forever.
Nevermind the yearly reverie, at most times this area is the tranquil spot for scholars and townsys alike. It is a top gem in the university’s jewelry drawer and one of Columbus’ top esthetics green getaways.
It is located south of tOSU main library and east of Neil Avenue and lies down in a cut from its surroundings. Around it are cobble stone backgrounds and black iron benches beside black beautiful lamps that at evenings bounce light off the leaves of various trees that surround it. At night this effect creates a frightening beauty – the very meaning of ‘sublime’ – that I believe I’ve seen rendered in the art work of former Buckeye George Bellows. (Though don’t quote me on that.)
Currently, the university is enhancing the lake to insure sustainability. That means it is wrapped by chain length fences and is missing its wonderful collegiate fountain – famous for its shots during football games. This I hope will strengthen it for generations to come.
Also on the grounds is a wonderful ancient Greek style outdoor amphitheater. Sadly I have never experienced a performance here though I would love too. It would be a perfect place for Shakespeare in the Park. Its old cement framed and covered with moss seating in front of a terra cotta fixtured stage calls forth the spirit of Sophocles and classical tragedy. I remember that many neo-​hippies would spend weekend nights here strumming tunes off and acoustic guitar – they could play every song asked.
This area brings back memories of being a student. It was cool place to read and study before class, romantic picnic with a significant other, and a place to bring out-​of-​town friends to show my Alma Mater pride.
I am proud that it hasn’t lost any charm. It remains one of my favorite places.

Currently drained with some stinky sludge in place of the lake. University is planning some upgrades.

Can you keep a secret?
There’s a place here in Columbus that is my favorite spot for peace and tranquility. I’ll tell you as long as you don’t tell anyone else… our secret, right?
Mirror Lake is just off of Neil Avenue, near the OSU Library. Go there on a early Sunday morning and just sit. Listen to the water fountain, hear the tree’s gentle rustle and if you like, feed the birds.
What a pleasant corner of the world right here in our own backyard. It’s a great place to go and reconnect with nature. You’ll find there’s very few people there early in the morning, my favorite time.
Enjoy the peace and remember, let’s keep this our secret.

Growing up, I heard story after story of my parents skipping classes and sitting around Mirror Lake with their friends (and sometimes professors too). So every visit to campus included a stop by here to once again hear them relive their tales.
As soon as I was old enough to drive, I was making my way to Mirror Lake for the Michigan week tradition of jumping in the freezing cold water. This is also where my friends and I learned that Mirror Lake is not as deep as you might think when my friend broke her leg.
Even now that I’m (supposed to be) old enough to know better, I still find my way back to Mirror Lake for every home football game just to sit there for a few minutes and realize that I’m becoming more and more like my parents every day as I relive my own tales.
Luckily there is no known video of me jumping in Mirror Lake =) but here are some for your viewing pleasure!

Dear Undergrads:
Please do not miss out. Go to Mirror Lake the Thursday before the Ohio State — Michigan football game every year you are there. Jump in no matter what the temperature outside, just try and make sure your tetanus shot is up to date. Have fun trying to tell your friends and family that aren’t Ohio State students or alum what exactly jumping in Mirror Lake is. You will never be able to explain just how phenomenal the (usually drunken) experience can be. This is a night that is filled with memories you don’t want to pass up!