The Smiling Scot

Smiling Scot logo

The Smiling Scot, based in Columbus, Ohio, was established in 1932 as a wholesale store selling household cleaning products. Managed initially by Harry S. Gump, followed by Don and Dotty Gump, the company gained recognition as an award-winning enterprise, becoming the largest of its kind by 1957. Located at 1266 Goodale Boulevard, the business continued to operate as a wholesale outlet in the Northwest Boulevard Co. subdivision.

In 1964, it became the exclusive distributor of the Central Ohio Arrow Guide by the R. L. Polk Co., a comprehensive map showing streets and intersections in the city and suburbs. Despite its success, Metro Industries eventually occupied the building in 1966.

1984 Smiling Scot ad in the Columbus Dispatch selling wedding invitations.
1984 Smiling Scot ad in the Columbus Dispatch selling wedding invitations.
Hello from Columbus, Ohio (Date Unknown)
Vintage postcard showing Columbus, Ohio, scenes. Photos show the city from the air, the statehouse, the Ohio State University Stadium (the “Horseshoe”), and the LeVeque Tower.
Greetings from Columbus, Ohio (Date Unknown)
Vintage postcard showing Columbus, Ohio, from the air and the Park of Roses in the Clintonville neighborhood.
Greetings from Columbus, Ohio (Date Unknown)
Postcard showing the Columbus, Ohio, city skyline and the Scioto River.
Park of Roses, Columbus, Ohio (Date Unknown)
Postcard showing the fountain at the Park of Roses in the Clintonville neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus, Ohio (Date Unknown)
Vintage postcard showing an aerial view of Columbus, Ohio.

Sources:

  • “Before and After.” This Week News. Moment in Time. 3 November 2015.
  • “Firm Named Distributor For New Arrow Guide.” Columbus Evening Dispatch. 29 July 1964. Pg. 31.
  • “Smiling Scot Marks Its 25th Anniversary.” Columbus Evening Dispatch. 4 September 1957. Pg. 14.
  • “Smiling Scot President Dead at 75.” Columbus Evening Dispatch. 18 November 1960. Pg. 28.