History

the history of chromedge studios

Chromedge Studios has a rich historical connection to not only Columbus, Ohio, but worldwide events. It occupies a space that was once a pivotal part of winning World War II, when elements of the Manhattan Project were developed here during an 8-month stretch in 1943.

 

Learn More About The Chromedge Studios History!

Early History

African-American Owned Factory

Entrepreneur Lyman Kilgore bought B&T Floor Covering in 1932, making it one of the first African-American owned factories in the United States.

WWII History

The Manhattan Project

In February 1943, DuPont, acting as an agent for the Manhattan Engineer District, contracted B&T Metals to extrude rods of uranium metal pellets for the reactor in Hanford, Washington.

Post-War History

Safety And New Operation

In October 1992, B&T Metals began performing various cleaning and safety measures at the property, and by Spring of 1996 the site was ready for regular use.

Current History

Chromedge Studios

In 2017, the space was officially redeveloped by Urban Smart Growth into Chromedge Studios at 400 Square. The space now hosts 30 individual art studios and a 2nd floor, 2,500 sq. ft. photography studio.

Full History

Founded by businessmen William Bonnell and William Thompson in downtown Columbus at the corner of Front and Long Streets in 1930, B&T Metals was originally known as B&T Floor Covering. Entrepreneur Lyman Kilgore bought the business in 1932 and shifted the focus from floor coverings to the aluminum pieces used to hold linoleum and carpeting to the floor and renamed the company B&T Metals. When Kilgore bought the business, it became one of the first African-American owned factories in the United States. Although Kilgore owned the business, Bonnell, who was white, stayed on as its president. In 1935, B&T moved to its location on West Town Street, combining their original factory with its factory at Gift and Rich Streets into one 100,000 square foot operation. By 1943, Kilgore had assumed the day-to-day operations of the plant from Bonnell.

 

As interesting as B&T Metals’ history is, with its pioneering of aluminum production and being one of the only African-American owned factories of its day, the most interesting piece of the company’s history took place over just eight months during 1943.

 

In February 1943, DuPont, acting as an agent for the Manhattan Engineer District (AKA the Manhattan Project), contracted B&T Metals to extrude rods of uranium metal pellets for the reactor in Hanford, Washington. The Manhattan Project was a top-secret project that took place from 1942 to 1946 to develop the first atomic bomb. Since the Manhattan Project was so secret, B&T workers and officials weren’t told of the ultimate plans for the uranium. They did not discover their link to the Manhattan Project until after World War II had ended. Even though it cannot be confirmed, uranium processed by B&T Metals could have been used for the bomb that Columbus pilot Paul Tibbets dropped on Hiroshima, Japan.

 

In the northwest corner of the main B&T Metals building, a dozen men stretched uranium into long rods and then cut the rods into 21-24 inch lengths. The slugs were ground on lathes until they were 7-8 inches in diameter. The secret project that began in March 1943 produced about 50 tons of extruded uranium over six months time. B&T’s active extrusion role ended in August 1943. There were no unusual safety precautions, not even gloves or masks, for those who handled the strange metal. Workers were required to have government-organized physicals every week and, once a month, they visited four doctors in one day. One person who worked with the uranium described rays that would come off the extruded bars like heat waves off the highway. If two bars rolled together by accident, they would cause a spark or small explosion, sometimes causing fire in a wood pilaster. Those working on the project were watched over by armed guards and men with pistols drawn would take the rods from the plant. The FBI even investigated the disappearance of two pieces of uranium. Agents showed up at workers’ homes and requested their assistance in finding the missing uranium. It ultimately turned out to be a government paperwork error.

 

B&T Metals ceased most manufacturing operations in 1982, but continued to employ about 20 people doing specialty aluminum work through the 1990s. By 2005, B&T employed only four people who produced aluminum parts for cars, electronics, and chalkboard frames. In 2004, a 25-yard long section of the main building’s second floor collapsed, throwing bricks onto two parked cars. Luckily no one was injured. City inspectors condemned the deteriorating building where the uranium had once been handled.

 

In 2017, the space was officially redeveloped by Urban Smart Growth into Chromedge Studios at 400 Square. The space now hosts 30 individual art studios and a 2nd floor, 2,500 sq. ft. photography studio.

Grant Donnelly
Grant Donnelly
Saw an artist show here for Franklington Fridays and thought it was a great venue lots of artist studios and an open ground floor gallery.
Josh Vance
Josh Vance
Couldn't recommend more. After working with other studios in another state to shoot for a well-known CPG brand we knew what we were looking for when we came across Chromedge Studios. The space was large, clean, and naturally well-lit which allowed for unique opportunities outside of traditional studio lighting. Fantastic area to boot with coffee nearby for the morning; pizza and craft beer for apres.
Kahlil Newton
Kahlil Newton
Incredible establishment. I’ve used it many times throughout the years and have never felt more at home within a space. Great place to get creative and make something cool
Nile Woodson
Nile Woodson
The studio has a lot of swag and tons of options and settings for taking great photos. They have all the equipment you need as well available to you if needed. Definitely recommend!
Jesse White
Jesse White
Was hesitant at first before booking with this studio due to a bad experience with a different company, but after working with Andrew I am thoroughly impressed. His attention to detail and professionalism is outstanding. I gave him my full trust and he went above and beyond. Thank you!
Diego Rasgado
Diego Rasgado
I recently rented out Chromedge Photography Studio for a photo shoot and had a fantastic experience. The studio is super clean and well-lit, with plenty of space to work with. While booking, the staff was friendly and helpful, making sure I had everything I needed to get the shots I wanted. As a photographer, it's great to have a space like this available to bring clients to - it's professional, comfortable, and well-equipped. I would definitely recommend Chromedge to anyone looking for a top-notch studio rental in the area. Two thumbs up!
Taylor Piersante
Taylor Piersante
Great space for both personal and commercial projects! Gorgeous natural light, well-equipped, and super accommodating staff. Looking forward to working with Chromedge again in the future!
Carissa Lia
Carissa Lia
Cannot recommend Chromedge studios enough. Highly professional, quick to respond, thorough, and clean. Thank you so much for your services! Will certainly be recommending this business to everyone and will absolutely be booking again. Thank you for a great experience!
Brett Dugan
Brett Dugan
Chromedge was perfect for my shoot. The natural lighting is beautiful and the staff was a pleasure to work with!
Cameron Brown
Cameron Brown
My favorite studio in town! I have been shooting in this space for the last 5 years and am always genuinely excited to get back in there. Owners are very communicative and the space is always clean and well stocked. 10/10
Andrew White
Andrew White
Great photography studio! Very open and amazing natural light and the customer service is excellent!
Stephen Lo
Stephen Lo
As a photographer, you'll find everything you need here. There is an amazing selection of backdrops, beautiful natural lighting, but of course all the modifiers and Studio flash you'll need. 👍🏼
Nicolas Macro
Nicolas Macro
Super cool, and massive, art studio with various artist who have a wide range of styles and mediums. They also are a part of Franklinton Fridays (art event on the 2nd Friday of every month).
Kasper James
Kasper James
Great Location for artists to focus on work. 24.7 access. Franklinton Friday (Gallery hop) participant. Affordable rates.
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