MyHometownOhio

Preservation Ohio Asks for Your Support

Staff — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:16:09 -0500

And now, as they say, a word from our sponsor.

Today Preservation Ohio launches its annual year-end membership and donation drive.

Each year, it is the generosity of our members and friends that drives our organization. As is the case with many non-profit organizations across Ohio and the country, the last twelve months have seen a dramatic reduction in resources for Preservation Ohio to accomplish its mission of using education, partnership and advocacy to secure a future for Ohio’s historic resources. This year, instead of a campaign with clever slogans and catch-phrases, we are making a simple, heartfelt request for your support.

Some time ago we published a List of Achievements we have realized over the last twelve months (click here to access). While we are proud of what we have done, what remains undone is what concerns us. Every week we are contacted by individuals, organizations and communities seeking advice and assistance on preservation-related projects and issues – and Preservation Ohio provides a unique perspective to the task. Our Board and Staff include individuals who have started and managed local preservation organizations, served on local historic preservation commissions and design review boards, created and obtained success for Main Street and other downtown revitalization organizations, litigated on behalf of preservation issues, served as city planners, worked as architects in preservation projects, and more – all right here in Ohio.

Again, while proud of our work to date, it is nothing compared to what we would like to do. With your support, these achievements can become just the beginning point for bigger and better projects and work throughout Ohio. Please click here for more information on joining and/or donating to Preservation Ohio – both can easily be accomplished online, or by printing and sending in a membership form.

As a thank you, this year you will also receive one of our new 2009 Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites membership cards – it’s the only way to get one!

Preservation Advocacy and Neighborhood Revitalization – Part Two - Mansfield

Staff — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:58:41 -0500

Several days ago, we posted about the challenges faced by proponents of preservation-based revitalization in the context of aggressive, large-scale demolition programs launched by federal neighborhood stabilization funding. This “NSP” money for larger cities comes with required Section 106 review, providing roles for both the Ohio Historic Preservation Office and for local consulting parties. Our previous post also referred to ongoing public discussion in Mansfield.

Some days after our post, we received information that the City of Mansfield would be hosting a public meeting on Thursday with the purpose of setting forth the city’s obligations and intentions pursuant to a recently-received $1.5 million dollar NSP grant. I attended the meeting for three reasons – first, as Ohio’s statewide preservation organization, we are extremely concerned over the ramifications of the use of such funds if spent on piecemeal versus strategically focused demolition; second, to find out first-hand not only how communities are using such funding, but justifying their approaches; and third, to support the strong downtown and neighborhood preservation programs in Mansfield.

Some aspects of the public meeting are shared at the same link that we provided in our previous post. Here, however, are additional objective perspectives from an “outsider” – someone who knows the city of Mansfield well but who is nevertheless not acquainted with any of the civic leadership in that community.

There are certainly positive aspects to report from the meeting. Although city officials shared and repeated that the meeting was to dispel rumors and allegations that the city was setting out to erase local history, it is commendable that the get-together was held. The invitation list was expansive, and included the city’s historic preservation commission, non-profit groups such as the Richland County Historical Society and Downtown Mansfield, Inc., other interested parties and local media. The City Development Director’s overview of Section 106 requirements, policies and procedures was comprehensive and spot-on.

That shared, there were several areas of serious concern, including the following:

•    Slides of Blight - First, there was a slideshow of “blighted” properties from around the city. I was immediately reminded of the “horror story” photos shared by school districts talking about the need for new school buildings – photos taken from the most alarming visual viewpoints, and not necessarily from the most revealing from a replacement or renovation point of view. For example - one photo showed a Mansfield house with trees obstructing its front view, with the observation that that growth rendered the house more susceptible to illegal activity. Instead of the obvious, easy and inexpensive solution, however – cutting down the trees – the unstated assumption was that demolition of the house provided the most logical answer.

Fully half of the photos showed properties that had no historic integrity or interest whatsoever; almost half, however, were properties which would likely be considered to be contributing structures in any potential National Register Historic District. These are not vernacular structures devoid of detail; many retain substantial amounts of original detailing, and some – including Greek Revival and Second Empire houses on South Main Street – are of a style which has almost completely disappeared from the community and should have strong preservation support.

•    A Need for Context - This last point brings up a major topic that was completely missing on Thursday evening – the idea of context. There was nothing shared in terms of the possible impact that demolition of selected properties would have on a neighborhood’s historic character, something which is integrally tied to its ability to attract both investment and incentives tied to listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

This is a time where the input and advice of the city’s own historic preservation commission could prove extremely important. By ordinance, the City of Mansfield Historic Preservation Commission acts “…in an advisory role to other officials and departments of local government regarding the protection of local cultural properties,” and “…as liaison on behalf of the local government to individuals and organizations concerned with historic preservation.” Section 1171.04, City of Mansfield Codified Ordinances. In other words, the HPC acts as the city’s own expert when it comes to such matters. Excluding it from the Section 106 consultation process and/or demolition review is not only counter-intuitive, it means that the city would be ignoring its best source of advice – the very body it created to provide that service.

In Mansfield, you also have a ready and willing non-profit partner – Downtown Mansfield, Inc. – ready to serve as the champion for a truly comprehensive neighborhood development initiative centered on capitalizing on historic integrity and character. No one, including DMI, is saying that just because a structure is old should render it immune from loss – rather only that a careful, considered approach is needed to maximize the benefits of selective demolition. The City of Mansfield is incredibly fortunate to have such a partner waiting in the wings.

•    Demolition for Demolition's Sake is Not an Answer - There appeared to be an overriding message that the only or even the best way to eradicate blight is to remove an offending property – in other words, to blame a structure for what happens inside of it. The Police and Fire Chiefs shared dramatic numbers about the problems associated with neglected structures. At the same time, however, their own statistics shared that with properly securing such properties, that risk would be substantially reduced. And, as the National Vacant Properties Campaign has shared, demolition does not eliminate blight, or the social costs inherent with it. The following is from their 2005 publication, “Vacant Properties: Their True Cost to Communities" (click here for the entire report).

“Demolishing crumbling vacant buildings does not completely eliminate the costs associated with abandonment. The resulting vacant lots still require maintenance. A study of vacant lots in Philadelphia estimated that the city and closely related public agencies spent $1.8 million annually on cleaning vacant lots. At the current level of activity and assuming a three percent inflation rate, this adds up to $49.6 million over the course of twenty years. The study only included the costs of five out of the fifteen agencies that have a role in vacant property management.

Rehabilitation is clearly a better choice. An examination of the St. Paul, Minnesota budget for maintenance and security costs associated with vacant buildings revealed that while demolition saves $4,697,25 the rehabilitation of a vacant building will save an estimated $7,141 in maintenance costs over a twenty-year period.”

The publication goes on to note that vacant lots dramatically reduce the property values and reinvestment potential of surrounding property, and profiles why piecemeal demolition is not the answer.

At the end of the meeting, an attendee questioned city officials on why their presentation centered on the idea of sharing the problems of “blight” which, he stated, needed no explanation. Indeed, the evening seemed to center on the problem, and not on the solution. The City of Mansfield could, if it chose, do something dramatic and pacesetting with this and future NSP grants. Unlike many other communities, it has citizens ready to help -- a trained and willing local historic preservation commission, and a non-profit partner with demonstrated expertise in downtown revitalization. It could – and should – examine the affected neighborhoods and ascertain their eligibility for National Register status (in fact, some of this work has probably already been done through the Ohio Historic Inventory process). It could – and should – allow a non-profit partner to review the affected neighborhoods and obtain expert advice on the best paths toward revitalization. It could – and should – set the model in Ohio for innovative and successful traditional neighborhood revitalization.

Photo: Downtown Mansfield - Creative Commons License

Answers... and More Answers

Staff — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:54:09 -0500

What happens when you ask the right questions of the right people? You get great responses, that’s what. Such is the case with the results of the Fall 2009 Survey recently conducted by Preservation Ohio.

The answers shared were a treasure trove of information – over 100 narrative answers were shared on various topics, in addition to those filling out only the multiple choice questions. From funding ideas, to partnership ideas, to suggestions for change and improvement, those answering the survey clearly showed their strong interest in empowering Ohio’s statewide preservation and revitalization movements. This past Saturday, Preservation Ohio’s Board of Trustees met and considered this input as it sat out to draft a vision for the coming year.

As promised, some of the answers are included below – including the results to every multiple-choice question. We have included a sampling of narrative answers as well to give you a taste of what was on the minds of Ohioans as they completed the survey - again, some of the questions generated dozens and dozens of narrative responses.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in our survey!

PRESERVATION OHIO FALL SURVEY

In your opinion, what are the greatest threats to or issues confronting historic preservation and preservation-based downtown and neighborhood revitalization in Ohio? (Please choose one or more, but no more than three).

ANSWER PERCENT

Lack of available financial assistance for renovation 44

Absent of inconsistently applied local regulations 38

Lack of awareness about the benefits of historic preservation 60

Aggressiveness of and political clout of the development community 22

Lack of a strong statewide preservation non-profit organization 16

Confusion about costs of renovation versus replacement 33

Lack of awareness about the relationship between preservation and 42

sustainable development

Other:

· The general state of economy and business in Ohio

· Demolition policies

· Duplication by having 2 preservation statewide groups causes confusion

· Excessive demolition because of “blight”

· Lack of public ethic toward history, preservation or heritage

Which area of preservation is of particular interest to you? Please choose as many answers as apply.

Historic house or building renovation and restoration 69

Local preservation organizations and efforts 64

Supporting preservation and revitalization on a statewide basis 36

Revitalization of Ohio downtowns 73

Promotion of heritage tourism – locally, regionally or statewide 53

Revitalization of Ohio’s traditional neighborhoods 55

Other:

· Save Over-the-Rhine!

· Historic schools – preservation and reuse as something new

· Historic school renovation for continued use

· Presentation of preservation technology for homeowner

· Historic farmland preservation

Please indicate the geographical area of Ohio in which you live:

Northeast 36

Northwest 9

Central 31

Southeast 4

Southwest 20

In your opinion, what are the primary opportunities or services that a statewide preservation organization needs to address? Please choose no more than three answers.

Creating opportunities for local preservationists to connect for advice and support 50

Providing technical advice 33

Providing information on funding 58

Assistance with local advocacy 40

Help with downtown revitalization 33

Help with neighborhood revitalization 38

Organizational development assistance 15

Local downtown and preservation program management services 25

Other:

· Advocacy in Columbus at the state level

· All of the above

· Continued educational use of Ohio’s historic schools

· Lobbying state for preservation dollars

How can Preservation Ohio, as a statewide preservation organization, better serve you and your community? With what programs or services?

· Encouraging Springfield in their efforts to save and rehab our historical buildings and neighborhoods rather than their typical approach of destroy and "put up a parking lot." We need to save Memorial Hall and the old Springfield South High School buildings.

· Help Cincinnati overturn its aggressive, anti-preservation demolition policies; help promote Cincinnati's preservation bargains on a national level.

· I think it needs to support the local groups by lobbying and funding and then technical support.

· Provide sources or support for funding or financing for private individuals to engage in preservation efforts. Or, serve as a central organization to assist individuals with acquiring said financing.

· Local advocacy and offering alternative development strategies to demolition.

· Information on grants and lobbying at the state level, that no property with a historical designation could be destroyed with private money

· I think Preservation Ohio can better serve the communities of Ohio by informing citizens of the benefits of preservation. Not many people today know how much preserving our history can help us prepare for the future.

· Downtown revitalization and incentives

· Get the word out to communities that help IS available!

· I believe that there should be more public awareness about the importance of preservation/restoration.

· Directing us to appropriate tools and educating us about the processes we may undertake.

· More funding and tax incentives to preserve rather than tear down and build new, inferior structures.

· Highlight sources of funding & grant opportunities.

· Local governments need educated on long range benefits to the local communities by preserving our heritage for future generations and adaptive reuse of historic structures and their positive impact to the local economy including their architectural appeal.

· Merge with Heritage Ohio and engage a wider audience through effective planning and communications.

· Serve as central information clearing house.

· By helping remove the stereo-typical view that historic schools can not be renovated to provide a 21st century education.

· Merge with Heritage Ohio.

· Preservation Ohio is already doing a good job; please continue stoking the enthusiasm of the existing preservation community, and welcoming/encouraging future Ohio preservationists.

· We need greater advocacy on Preservation and a stop to demolition in our neighborhoods.

Are you currently, or have you been a member of Preservation Ohio (or the Ohio Preservation Alliance) within the past 5 years? (40 answers, 15 skipped).

Yes 25

No 75

Other:

· I just receive the e-mails as well as read the articles on the website.

· Our organization belongs.

. Will join shortly; however, currently only involved from a distance via the Internet.

Preservation Advocacy and Neighborhood Revitalization

Staff — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:15:29 -0500

Like many non-profit fields, supporters of historic preservation and preservation-based revitalization continue to be influenced by how they were made aware of the importance of historic resources. One typical avenue toward that awareness is the threat of demolition of an important local landmark, a place that contributes to a community’s sense of place – or, as noted urban advocate Ed McMahon calls them, “places of the heart.” When these demolition crises arrive, individuals and organizations mobilize and seek to influence owners to consider alternative paths. If that is unsuccessful, attention often shifts to encouraging local government officials to enact protections for historic resources.

The best advocacy, of course, is of the proactive variety. One of the key benefits of local historic preservation organizations is their ability to work toward creating “environments for preservation.” Such an environment is one where property owners are made generally aware of possible preservation financial incentives, of the importance of individual buildings and houses to downtowns and neighborhoods, and of the possibility of public outcry if they pursue demolition or insensitive renovation.

A real challenge exists when it is the local government itself that is the source of possible demolition. Such is the situation in Mansfield, where the city is pursuing an aggressive demolition program to combat blight, and local preservation advocates are seeking the opportunity to be a part of the process of evaluating the historic integrity and value of targeted structures. In fact, the ability to do so is written into federal law. Click here to read blog entries profiling this situation.

All over Ohio, local governments are using federal stimulus funds to combat the after-effects of the national foreclosure crisis – but in some cases, are doing so in a piecemeal fashion. Without paying attention to long-term neighborhood revitalization strategies, the net result may well be making the situation worse, not better. As the National Vacant Properties initiative has pointed out, simply creating a vacant lot can actually serve as a substantial long-term disincentive for investment in surrounding properties.

What is needed is a dialogue in Ohio communities on the best way to approach revitalization of traditional neighborhoods. What preservation and revitalization advocates can and should do is to seek ways to become a part of that conversation.

Buckeye Assets

Staff — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 15:27:46 -0400

The Ohio Historic Preservation Office recently announced the winners of their 2009 Preservation Awards, and recipients joined this week at the Palace Theatre in Marion to receive their honors.

These year’s list of winners covers a wide range of projects, many of them concentrated in the state’s three largest communities. Included were building renovation projects, educational efforts in both schools and for the general public, and for long-time service to local preservation efforts.

One award went to the new “Buckeye Assets” website, a joint project of the Ohio Department of Development’s Division of Informational Technology, Office of Environmental Services and the Office of Structural Engineering. The site is an interactive map of Ohio bridges – over 7,800 of them listed, with details as to construction type, age, and condition information. Included are the state’s many “historic” bridges, with specification made of those listed on the National Register of Historic Places, those eligible for listing, and those deemed “non-historic.” Most of the profiles also include photographs of a given bridge.

It really doesn’t get any better than this for fans of historic bridges, at least from a documentation point of view. Congrats to all involved for a valuable contribution to making information about Ohio history easily and freely available to all.

Buckeye Assets can be found at: www.buckeyeassets.org.

Photo: Screenshot of Buckeye Assets, showing National Register-listed bridges in Ohio.

First-Ever Live Blog on Social Media and Preservation

Staff — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 11:19:18 -0400

On October 23, Preservation Ohio will host its third "live blog" of the year -- this time with a topic of "Social Media Meets Preservation", which will look at the relationship between the world of social media on one hand, and Ohio preservation and revitalization on the other.

An increasing number of statewide and local preservation and revitalization organizations are waking up to the potential of social networking to generate positive awareness, support and revenue. Perhaps the most important benefit of this new area of communication is the ability to build community behind a mission or project. From Facebook to Twitter; from Tumblr to Flickr - as we near the end of the first decade of the 21st century, the potential of social media is outstanding. Learn about best practices, tips and ideas to use social media to your advantage, including exciting projects now launching that use social media to help to communicate the message of preservation and revitalization. We'd be thrilled to welcome statewide and local preservation, Main Street and other preservation-related organizations to the discussion as well.

Preservation Ohio is a national leader in the use of social media to advance the cause of statewide historic preservation. From hosting the country's first and oldest blog on preservation, to owning the most-followed Twitter page for any organization in America, to launching the country's first stand-alone social network for preservation -- we have alot to share! Join us on October 23, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, on any Preservation Ohio website -- including on the main website, on the Ohio Preservation Network, and on this page.

An Update - October 2009

Staff — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:55:01 -0400

A handful of items which have recently come across the Preservation Ohio desk – or items which we would like to bring to your attention:

LIVE BLOG – Preservation Ohio will be conducting additional “live blogs” this Fall, as we attempt to share the best ideas in advancing local preservation and revitalization efforts – without the need of travel and expense. Live blogs are easy to follow, free, and can be accessed at any of the Preservation Ohio websites, including the Ohio Preservation Network or here on MyHometownOhio.

On October 23 from 10:00 a.m. to noon, we will be looking at the increasing role of social media in preservation. Did you know, for instance, that downtown revitalization organizations in Ohio can easily use Twitter for creating innovative and free merchant advertising campaigns? Did you know that traditional neighborhoods across the country are using social media to generate effective programs to reduce crime, increase investment and connect neighbors? Or – did you know that in Ohio, you can easily ask questions of other preservation and revitalization organizations online? All this and more will be reviewed on the 23rd.

BOO! – All across Ohio, historic resources are the setting for “ghost tours” and other spooky-related events. Those include the 2009 Ghost Tour series from the Columbus Landmarks Foundation, Ghost Walks in Warren, and ghost hunts at Prospect Place near Dresden.

PROPOSED FEDERAL LEGISLATION – All across the country, preservation and revitalization advocates are hopeful in the Historic Homeowners Revitalization Act of 2009, introduced in the US House of Representatives this past week. If passed and signed, the bill would provide the following changes to the Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit, according to the website of Preservation Action:

A credit of 20% of the "qualified rehabilitation expenditures made by the taxpayer with respect to a qualified historic home," with a cap of $60,000
An increase in the credit available for buildings in "high cost" or economically distressed areas
The ability of the credit to be transferred or assigned, and to be more easily integrated with state and local tax credits.
Availability of the credit for "for sale" housing.

HISTORY ON THE BALLOT – In a handful of Ohio communities, historic resources will be impacted by issues being considered by voters. That is the case in Cincinnati, where the Cincinnati Museum Center, which includes the venerated Union Terminal building, is the subject of a $16.2 million levy. At the same time, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the terminal is in need of some $120 to $140 million in repairs. If successfully, the levy will fund ongoing operations and some maintenance, although the larger repairs will remain unfunded.

Photo: Union Terminal, Cincinnati - cincyimages/Creative Commons License

Ohio Preservation and Facebook Pages

Staff — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:23:24 -0400

Over the last few months, several Ohio preservation and downtown revitalization organizations have established a more thorough presence on Facebook with the creation of an official “Page.”

Facebook Pages are a more robust version of the former Facebook Groups, the latter of which basically allowed only static information, simple posts and some discussion. Pages have all of this and more, including the ability for those registered as “fans” to receive updates on their own individual sites. Pages can also be outfitted with applications, which provide increased functionality and features.

Both the Cincinnati Preservation Association and Columbus Landmarks Foundation have active Facebook Pages, which are updated often with news, event information, advocacy alerts and more. Fans can comment on these posts, can add their own content, and can embed posts them on their own pages.

Downtown revitalization organizations with Facebook Pages include Downtown Mansfield, Inc., Main Street Kent, the Heritage Centre Association (Mount Vernon), Main Street Oberlin, the Main Street Area Association (Hamilton), the Marysville Uptown Renewal Team, Main Street Canal Winchester, Main Street Medina, Main Street Orrville and Main Street Delaware.

Preservation Ohio’s Facebook Page includes all of the standard features, as well as our latest “Tweets,” the most recent photographs posted on our Flickr page, and the ability to easily invite friends to the page. The Preservation Ohio Facebook Page interconnects with both our website and the new Ohio Preservation Network. Together, through Twitter, Facebook, the Ohio Preservation Network, Flickr and our blog, MyHometownOhio, Preservation Ohio now enjoys between 2,000 and 3,000 friends, fans, followers and subscribers just through online social networking. All of this work is an attempt to build a cohesive and effective community for preservation and preservation-based revitalization in Ohio.

To access any of the Facebook Pages for the organizations referred to in this post, visit www.facebook.com/preservationohio and look for the “Favorite Pages” in the left-hand column. And, while you’re there, please become a “fan” of Preservation Ohio!

Time and Change Will Surely Show - Updated

Staff — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:28:27 -0400

In October of 2007, MyHometownOhio took a look at the state of preservation on the campus of Ohio’s largest college, The Ohio State University. At that time, this is what we wrote:

"Fall has finally hit Ohio in earnest. As we head into November, thoughts turn to colder temperatures, Thanksgiving, and for Buckeye fans, the Ohio State – Michigan game. This year’s contest is on November 17 in unfriendly territory “up North.”

Ohio’s flagship educational institution is located on a campus where tradition and history live. Although not without a few preservation missteps (University Hall comes to mind), the University has a good overall record in saving important elements of its past – with some particularly good success stories.

One of those positive stories is currently being written with the $79 million renovation and expansion of the William Oxley Thompson Main Library on the Oval at OSU. The original portion of the Main Library opened in 1913, and was designed by the Boston architectural firm of Allen and Collens. In 1951, the familiar 11 story bookstack tower was added to the rear of the original building, and various additions have followed. In the renovation project, the original grand reading room, long-since divided into smaller spaces, will be completely restored to its original two-story appearance....

And, for a trip through the architectural history of The Ohio State University, click here to visit the University’s “Interactive Historical Campus Map.” By adjusting the timeline, visitors to the site can view the physical evolution of the OSU campus from 1871 through 2001.

"The seasons pass, the years will roll; Time and change will surely show, how firm thy friendship - O-HI-O" -- from Carmen Ohio, the OSU Alma Mater."

The intervening two years have made quite a difference – and it could well be said that the University has taken a couple of steps back and one forward from how things stood in October of 2007. As detailed in an article from earlier this year, OSU recently took the unfortunate step of demolishing two of its oldest structures, Lord Hall and Brown Hall, the former designed by noted Columbus architect Frank Packard. As noted in this 2003 story from the OSU Lantern, the building was “…a historical reminder of the early days of the Ohio State campus.” When Preservation Ohio joined the Columbus Landmarks Foundation and Heritage Ohio for discussions with the building department of OSU just before the demolition, officials pointed to in-house analyses of the buildings’ condition, but did not allow for outside structural analyses to be made. The historic buildings have been replaced with green and utilitarian space, not with new structures.

This month OSU Trustees approved a $1 billion expansion project for OSU Medical Center, which is envisioned to create as many as 15,000 short and long-term jobs. Unfortunately, plans call for the demolition of Means Hall, a 1951 design by noted architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. The building was constructed at an important time for the firm, just a year before the well-known Lever House in New York City, called by Wikipedia “…the quintessential and seminal glass box International Style skyscraper.” While not a high-rise structure, Means Hall appears to exhibit elements of the International Style in its use of concrete, glass and aluminum elements. It likely is suffering the fate of many "recent past" buildings, many of which merit preservation.

Recently, however, OSU also unveiled the finished William Oxley Thompson Main Library renovation and expansion project (with a final price tag of $109 million) referred to above – which features some visually stunning new spaces interspersed with restoration of important interior elements. Among the latter, the restored Grand Reading Room is a must-see, with its large windows looking out over the Oval. As noted above, prior to the project this was actually divided into two floors of space. Click here to take an interesting video tour of the “old and new” library, and here to see a dramatic full-screen photo of the Reading Room.

As Ohio’s flagship public university, the state’s preservation community continues to hope that OSU will adopt and adhere to policies which will place it at the forefront of efforts to preserve Ohio’s rich collegiate academic history.

Photo: Grand Reading Room, OSU Main Library, Columbus - jslander/Creative Commons License

Starting a Great Conversation

Staff — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 23:37:12 -0400

Tuesday’s day-long workshop in Columbus, co-sponsored by Preservation Ohio and the Columbus Landmarks Foundation, turned out to be more of a conversation than a series of staid presentations. From the beginning breakfast panel discussion on local building issues in Columbus, all the way to the final session of the day, the emphasis was combining the latest information on financial incentives for preservation with the opportunity to dialogue with experts on each of those tools.

Speakers and panelists included the following:

•   Vince Papsidero - Planning Administrator, City of Columbus
•   Don DeVere - President, DeVere LLC
•   Laura MacGregor Comek, Esq. - Crabbe, Brown & James
•   Charissa W. Durst - President, Hardlines Design Company
•   Robert Loversidge - Principal, Schooley Caldwell Associates
•   Jeffrey Darbee and Nancy Recchie - Owners, Benjamin D. Rickey & Co.
•   Thomas Palmer - Executive Director, Preservation Ohio
•   Mark Lundine - Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program Coordinator, Ohio Department of Development
•   Judith Kitchen - Technical Preservation Services Department Head, Ohio Historic Preservation Office

Topics included use of the Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit, Clean Ohio funding, the new Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit, the use of historic conservation easements, New Markets Tax Credits, and more.

Anonymous evaluations of the event included the following comments:

•   “All of these topics are very interesting. Very practical information.”
•   “This was the most useful presentation on historic preservation financial aid that I have ever seen. Many thanks for putting this all together.”
•    "Good! Program!"
•    "A great seminar."
•    "Terrific, well-informed speakers, good selection of topics for background information."

This was the first workshop of its kind in Columbus in some time, and participants were clearly anxious to continue the discussion after sessions and into the future. Preservation Ohio has been involved in similar workshops over the last three years in other Ohio locations, and is already lining up venues to continue the series in the coming months.

Photos: Preservation Ohio File Photos

Thinking Easements

Staff — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 13:13:44 -0400

by Thomas Palmer, Executive Director

On Tuesday, I will be speaking on the subject of historic conservation easements at “Financial Incentives for Historic Properties,” a day-long workshop on tax benefits for preservation work co-sponsored by Preservation Ohio and the Columbus Landmarks Foundation.

As you can imagine, easements have occupied my thoughts as of late as I prepared for this presentation. The attendees to the event will be diverse – including many to obtain continuing education credit for architects, lawyers and real estate professionals. And, as the event is taking place somewhere other than Cleveland or Cincinnati where historic conservation easements are better known, it is likely that for many this will be their first exposure to this important tool for preservation.

Two facts highlight the importance of historic conservation easements – also known as “preservation easements.” First, unlike the Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit, the tax incentive for easement donation is equally available to owners of non income-producing properties – that is, your family home if you so choose. Second, and perhaps most importantly, they represent the only “slam-dunk” path toward preserving the historic resources of a given property, for many reasons:

Placement on the National Register of Historic Places, or inclusion in a National Register Historic District, provides no protection against alteration or even demolition if federal funding is not used.
While many Ohio communities have historic preservation or design review ordinances that provide protection, not every community has the resources to provide ongoing monitoring.
Decisions of administrative boards can be appealed and can therefore have the potential to end up in politically-charged settings.
Not all design review or historic preservation ordinances protect against demolition. Even if an ordinance protects a property, many ordinances allow for an economic hardship appeal, and the decision may be challenged legally on that basis.
More than one Ohio community has actually rescinded a preservation ordinance.

Its little surprise that noted preservationist Arthur P. Ziegler, Jr. once said, “There are only two sure ways to save a building: you either have to own it or protect it through an easement.”

While the easement program nationwide has been in a state of flux over the last several years, some clarity is returning and the tool is again being used in many locations. Click here for an introduction to historic conservation easements on our website.

Photo: Pennsylvania House, Springfield - Preservation Ohio File Photo

Back from the Brink

Staff — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:27:36 -0400

Its always a pleasure to report on positive news concerning current and former listings on the annual List of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites – and we’ve heard some over the last several weeks that we’d like to share.

The Seneca County Courthouse news from Tiffin has been well-covered in this space and elsewhere on the web. Although not a certainty, the Commissioners did give the “green light” for renovation, and indicated that should that funding be available, that this is the route that will be chosen.

Over the last few weeks we also learned that the proposed transfer of Antioch College to college alumni had been successfully concluded, a transaction which included the historic college campus in Yellow Springs. After raising over $10 million, the group is looking at enrolling students as early as the fall of 2011, and is committed to preservation of college buildings dating as far back as 1854. Click here for coverage of the news from the Los Angeles Times.

On September 11, you have your last chance to see buildings comprising the historic Dayton Arcade before their $30 million restoration. Closed for several years, the buildings have been opened only once before on “Urban Nights,” an event celebrating downtown Dayton. Click here to read about the tour in the Dayton Daily News, and be sure to check out the related stories on the left for more information about the building and local efforts to re-open the landmark.

While moved from its original location which, because of its connection to the Underground Railroad was an integral part of the structure’s historic integrity, Sylvania’s Lathrop House is at least seeing a complete, phased restoration. Channel 13TV in Toledo recently covered the work being performed by the Toledo Area Metroparks together with the Friends of the Lathrop House group. Click here for coverage.

Photo: Dayton Arcade entrance - OZinOH/Creative Commons License

Historic Stadiums Dot the State

Staff — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:07:51 -0400

This story was first published on MyHometownOhio on August 31, 2006:

A sure sign of the impending arrival of Autumn occurs this weekend as the college football season begins. All across Ohio, from NAIA to Division I programs, the sights and sounds of marching bands and cheering fans will fill stadiums that have witnessed decades of tradition.

At the University of Cincinnati, the Bearcats play in venerable Nippert Stadium, the fifth-oldest college football stadium in the country. Nippert was constructed between 1916 and 1924, and was named for the grandson of a founder of Proctor & Gamble, who died of injuries received during a game.

In Delaware, an $800,000 gift to Ohio Wesleyan University allowed for needed upgrades to Selby Field, home of the Battling Bishops since 1921. The gift, part of the “Remembering Mr. Rickey” campaign to fund athletics and recreation departments, funded the installation of a new artificial playing surface and leveraged other improvements.

And, of course, this Saturday marks another football season at the ‘Shoe – otherwise known as Ohio Stadium, home of the Buckeyes. The “newest” stadium in this trio, Ohio Stadium was opened in 1922, and since that time has welcomed over 30 million rabid fans to watch one of college football’s most storied programs. Ohio Stadium was extensively renovated a few years ago, however an effort was made to keep a great deal of the original stadium intact. To re-kindle a bit of Buckeye fever, click the "play" arrow on the image below to watch the OSU Marching band perform “Script Ohio.” For our subscribers, click here to access the same video. As a point of interest, Preservation Ohio Executive Director Thomas Palmer is marching in this video, taken during his freshman year at OSU.

Photo Credit: Nippert Stadium, University of Cincinnati/plemeljr, Creative Commons License

Ohio's Preservation Community Celebrates with Tiffin

Staff — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:40:41 -0400

The first time that a post appeared on MyHometownOhio concerning the Seneca County Courthouse was on February 16, 2007. The post featured a video which had been placed on YouTube which lamented both the condition of the Tiffin landmark as well as its endangered status.

Over the two and a half years which followed, this blog chronicled the ongoing saga of the building - including the work of the Tiffin Historic Trust, the incredible efforts of the Courthouse and Downtown Redevelopment Group, and Preservation Ohio’s own involvement. We have joined our friends in Tiffin in rallies, speeches and presentations, have spoken to the Commissioners, have provided testimony in design review hearings, filed an amicus curiae brief in ongoing legal action, and joined with others to sponsor the Ohio Courthouse Summit in late 2007.

Yesterday, the Seneca County Commissioners voted 3-0 to support the renovation of the Seneca County Courthouse - the first building to be selected to lead the annual list of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites. This honor was made in recognition of its importance to the local community and county, the quality of its architecture, and because we knew that the eyes of many across the state were tuned toward Tiffin as they looked at their own facilities.

Preservation Ohio applauds the three Seneca County Commissioners, members of the Courthouse and Downtown Redevelopment Group including their point person Franklin Conaway, members of the Tiffin Historic Trust, and everyone else who has played a role in this effort. Franklin is a co-founder and former Board President of Preservation Ohio, and we're thrilled to recognize him for his role in this project.

The work continues, as funds must be raised for the courthouse tower and other improvements. MyHometownOhio will continue to follow this story - and we will be there on the day in the hopefully not-too-distant future when we can cover the opening of the newly renovated Seneca County Courthouse.

For Toledo Blade coverage of this story, including video of the actual vote, click here.

Photo: Seneca County Courthouse, Tiffin - circa 1884

Disappointing News from Greenhills

Staff — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:16:25 -0400

Preservation Ohio received word yesterday concerning two pending demolitions in Greenhills.

The Greenhills Village Council has apparently voted to demolish two additional buildings in the historic district -- both multi-unit frame houses on Dewitt Court. Ironically, the buildings in question were occupied until a month ago; according to neighbors, some of the tenants didn't want to leave. There are no plans for re-use of the vacant land.

For more information on these demolitions, and how they have the potential to impact pending National Historic Landmark status for this unique pre-war experiment in planned development, visit the "Endangered Places" page of the Cincinnati Preservation Association website by clicking here (scroll to the bottom of the page).

The Village of Greenhills has been included on the List of Ohio's Most Endangered Historic Sites since 2008 - click here for the most recent listing.

Photo: Buildings scheduled for demolition, Greenhills - Courtesy of the Cincinnati Preservation Association

Statewides Online

Staff — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:00:23 -0400

On a regular basis, Preservation Ohio visits websites, social media pages and other online locations for our sister statewide historic preservation organizations across the country. These sites often reveal the “personality” of each organization, as several statewides have developed strong programming in a particular area.

A visit to the new website of Preservation North Carolina, for instance, quickly reveals that PNC has a two-decade long emphasis and expertise in the acquisition and sale of historic real estate across the state. By clicking the first tab, “Buy Properties,” visitors can access a list of current properties for sale – each of which has either been acquired in fee simple by the organization, or is available through a transferable purchase option. PNC President Myrick Howard has twice visited Preservation Ohio to talk about the unique program, and members of our staff have traveled to Raleigh to experience their endangered properties program first-hand.

One of the best new websites for statewides was recently unveiled in New York. The site of the Preservation League of New York State includes a section for their legal services initiative, the only one of its kind in the country. Information on the program can be accessed under “Explore our Programs” on the bottom left of the site.

It is always informative to visit the website of Landmarks Illinois, an organization which is often involved in creative programming and cutting-edge issues in preservation. Currently, for instance, their lead stories include a feature on an alternative proposal developed by the organization for the proposed 2016 Olympic Village in Chicago, as well as a look at a hands-on renovation project involving Landmarks Illinois on the opposite side of the state. “Illinois Restoration Resources” (see icon near the bottom of the page) gives visitors the chance to search a database of preservation suppliers and professionals working in Illinois.

The website of the Utah Heritage Foundation in Salt Lake City includes coverage of the organization’s strong emphasis on tours, education and advocacy roles – as well as their new programming in “recent past” architecture. Also included are links to the organization’s collection of slideshows available for school groups, as well as to what is likely the only interactive game featured on any statewide preservation organization website in the country – the “Kearns Mansion and the Secret Silver Game.”

Photo: Screenshot of the website of the Preservation League of New York State

Courthouse Coverage

Staff — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:46:33 -0400

In the aftermath of the July 20 presentation of the Seneca County Courthouse and Downtown Redevelopment Group, there has been a great deal of activity in Tiffin as Commissioners consider the renovation proposal, and the public hears and reacts to the plan. Not surprisingly, the matter, which has been extensively covered in media over the last three years, has continued to generate substantial coverage. Here is a sampling of recent articles and letters to the editor on the subject:

"Cost Effectiveness is determining factor" - Letter to the Editor by Seneca County Commissioner Ben Nutter - "... As a Seneca County commissioner, my position in relation to the courthouse has been exactly the same from the moment I took office, and that is; I will support the course of action that is most fiscally responsible in providing space to the judiciary of Seneca County..."

Advertister-Tribune editorial – “Majority just want the issue to be over” - "Arguments and legal wrangling over the 1884 courthouse have resulted in a false dichotomy. The county, it may seem, is split into two camps: Those who favor renovating the "grand old lady" and those who favor removing "big ugly"..."

“Courthouse lines in the sand have become scars” – Advertiser-Tribune - "When a line is drawn in the sand, who has the courage to scratch it out?..."

“Figues, opinions change” – Advertiser-Tribune - "...The long journey of decision-making in the commissioner board room has inspired the passions of county residents on two distinct sides of a divided county..."

“Seneca County Courthouse report is full of details to make the case” – Toledo Blade - "The head of a group aiming to save and restore the abandoned Seneca County Courthouse turned in his final report Monday, a thick photo-and-drawing-filled document stuffed with the kinds of details supporters hope will win over hesitant county residents..."

“Seneca County diverts $687,000 in courthouse funds” – Toledo Blade - "More than $687,000 set aside to tear down and replace Seneca County's 1884 courthouse was diverted to the county's general fund yesterday to cover expenses in the sheriff's office and department of job and family services...."

“Seneca County’s renovation foes rethink positions” – Toledo Blade - "...Based on the best information we had available two years ago, it was cheaper to remove and replace," Mr. Nutter said. "But based on the information we have today, it may very well be less expensive to renovate and provide more space and still be able to keep a building and our sense of cultural identity..."

Photo: Seneca County Courthouse - Preservation Ohio File Photo

Two Historic College Campuses

Staff — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:01:01 -0400

Yesterday we were on two historic Ohio college campuses - Kenyon College in Gambier, and Denison University in Granville. On an extraordinarily beautiful day, we took a handful of photos in each location, and would like to share the same with you. For our subscribers, click here to access the photo slideshow.

Enjoy!

Two Months of Preservation Events

Staff — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 22:06:52 -0400

As this Summer moves on, and the “back to school” sales begin to hit Ohio stores – it seems a good time to look ahead for the next couple of months of preservation-related events in Ohio from August 5 to the end of the September.

Various Saturdays and Sundays through October – 2009 Walking Tours – Columbus – Columbus Landmarks Foundation continues their outstanding look at commercial and residential neighborhoods

August 5 – Walking Tour of the South Fountain Historic District – Springfield – Presented by the Springfield Preservation Alliance, this tour will showcase one of the city’s most affluent late 19th century neighborhoods.

August 6 to August 8 – Lincoln Highway BUYWAY – Statewide – As many as 750 individual yard and garage sales across the original Lincoln Highway in West Virginia, Ohio and Indiana.

August 8 – Preservation Ohio Summer Board Meeting -- Yellow Springs

August 8 – Walking Tour of Snyder Park – Springfield – Presented by the Springfield Preservation Alliance, this event will discuss the history of Springfield’s premier place for “recreation and reform.”

September 5 – Tour of Peterloon Estate -- Cincinnati/Indian Hill – Rare tour of an outstanding early 20th century Georgian Revival mansion, including John Singer Sergeant and Charles Dana Gibson artwork – presented by the Cincinnati Preservation Association.

September 9 – Show Me the Money – Portsmouth – Quarterly Ohio Main Street Program session, this one focusing on funding sources for civic and building improvements.

September 15 - “Financial Incentives for Historic Properties” -- Columbus -- Co-sponsored by Preservation Ohio and the Columbus Landmarks Foundation. Continuing education credits applied, pending or approved for architects, real estate agents and attorneys.

And coming up:

October 16-18 – The Friends of Freedom Society, Inc. 13th Annual Summit – Hudson – This year’s theme is: “Freedom: The Ultimate Price: The 150th Anniversary of the Death of John Brown.”

October 13-17 – National Preservation Conference – Nashville, Tennessee

Photo: House, South Fountain Historic District, Springfield - Cindy Funk/Creative Commons License

Traveling to Hillsboro

Staff — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 13:46:43 -0400

Yesterday evening Preservation Ohio Executive Director Thomas Palmer joined Heritage Ohio Executive Director Joyce Barrett on a trip to the beautiful southwest Ohio county seat town of Hillsboro. There, they met with members of the Highland Community Preservation Group (HCPG) to discuss the group’s plans concerning the landmark Bell’s Opera House building.

As profiled in this 2007 Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Site listing, the building was a gift to the community from local industrialist Charles S. Bell. It opened in 1895, and served the community for decades. Unlike many comparable facilities, the opera house was never remodeled - and when the last curtain closed on performances, it was largely sealed and forgotten.

In March, 2004, Preservation Ohio was present at the inaugural meeting of the HCPG where the vision of turning Bell’s into a community arts facility was first introduced. The group is continuing at full speed with their long-range planning, having chosen a company to complete a master planning process and also developing acquisition options. At last night’s meeting, a full range of renovation funding opportunities for any Ohio property were reviewed, with special attention given to those, both local and non-local, potentially available for performing arts facilities. The group has obviously put substantial time and effort on preparing themselves for a successful project.

Unfortunately, the trip also brought news of another property in downtown Hillsboro deserving of preservation and needing immediate attention - the Parker House hotel on West Main Street. The city has deemed the building unsafe and is seeking demolition. The owner has countered with his belief that the building is structurally sound. Coverage of the situation in the local press can be accessed here.

Click here to read more about efforts to preserve the Bell’s Opera House, and for a further link to the HCPG.

Photo: Bell's Opera House, Hillsboro - Seth Gaines/Creative Commons License

A Wal-Mart in the Wilderness?

Staff — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:58:33 -0400

Once and a while, Preservation Ohio learns of and reports on a national preservation issue which truly transcends state lines -- one which, while occurring in another state, nevertheless has an Ohio impact.

Such a situation has been occurring over the last several months in Orange County, Virginia. There, Wal-Mart Corporation has announced their intention to construct a 138,000 square-foot Supercenter immediately adjacent to the Wilderness and Chancelorsville Battlefields. And, with the ancillary development that typically accompanies such a store, the grounds of the battle itself are seriously threatened with loss.

According to Wikipedia, The Battle of the Wilderness took place from May 5 through May 7, 1864, and involved some 162,000 soldiers. While estimates vary as to the number of casualties, most place losses in the range of 15,000 to 18,000 for the Union troops, with approximately 10,000 losses for the Confederacy. It was a bloody battle that represented the first between Generals Grant and Lee during the former’s Virginia Overland Campaign. Ohio was certainly there at this battle, as it was in almost all of the war, including the valiant 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, a unit raised from the cities and fields of Seneca County.

The fight to save the battlefield’s historic integrity has been ongoing, with an initial planning decision going in favor of the Wal-Mart developers. Without question, the primary resource for this situation has been provided by the Civil War Preservation Trust, the country’s leading non-profit advocate for preserving the land of the Civil War. On their “Save the Wilderness Battlefield” page visitors can get up-to-the-minute details on the struggle. The goal has been to encourage the company to choose an alternative location for their store more removed from the battlefield, not to stop it from building in the area.

Preservation Ohio strongly recommends becoming informed about this issue, and doing what you can to make a difference.

Photo: Painting, Battle of The Wilderness - Public Domain

Social Media Meets Preservation

Staff — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:43:46 -0400

2009 has seen an amazing explosion in the area of social media. The phenomenon that is Twitter, for instance, has recently had an impact in everything from national politics to international relations. Far from a static tool, social media is constantly evolving, changing and adapting to meet new opportunities and new technologies - particularly in the area of the mobile web (cell phones, etc.).

In many ways, America’s non-profit organizations are leading the charge into the creative use of social media. Here is a recent conference presentation on the use of social media in the non-profit world. Note, however, that as these statistics are already 7 months old, that today’s numbers have risen exponentially.

Social Media for Non Profits

View more presentations from Primal Media.

Preservation and revitalization are, perhaps not surprisingly, lagging behind this trend. Pacesetting organizations such as the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training are attempting to identify and promote the use of social media by preservation organizations through their excellent Voices from the Past website and Preservation Today web casts, however many local, statewide and even national preservation and revitalization organizations seem to be stuck in Web 2.0 - if they have any online presence at all.

Preservation Ohio has been at the forefront of this change since MyHometownOhio, the country’s first self-authored blog on statewide preservation, was launched in July of 2006. We currently have the most followed organizational page on Twitter of any statewide or national preservation organization, and have companion sites on Facebook, MySpace, Flickr and YouTube. This Summer we launched the country’s first self-contained social networking site for statewide preservation, The Ohio Preservation Network, and have forayed into the realm of live blogging for the recent announcement of the 2009 List of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites.

One thing about social media - the scene can change in just a few months. That’s why we are always looking a year down the road - to identify the social networking and media opportunities of the future that will better enable us to perform our mission.

An Incalculable Loss

Staff — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:39:39 -0400

This article was originally posted on MyHometownOhio in 2007. The tragedy herein described continues to this day, making this post even more poignant to all Ohioans.

There has been much written about the loss of older school buildings across Ohio in the last few years. “Ohio’s Historic Schools” have had a secure place on the list of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites since 2002, and rightfully so – the listing represents the greatest systematic loss of historic resources in Ohio since the days of urban renewal. And, in many ways, the loss of school buildings is more insidious, as it takes place in urban settings and rural crossroads alike. Schools are falling victim to a massive building program that wastes money by discounting opportunities for renovation, and which then subsidizes demolition. Outside of Ohio’s largest cities, few historic school buildings are being renovated, and most are succumbing to the wrecking ball.

Actually, in conveying the size and pervasiveness of the loss of Ohio’s historic schools, we believe that pictures can say more than words. So, rather than try and describe the situation, or the quality of architecture that is at issue, we invite you to visit a new website we have discovered. The folks at www.oldohioschools.com have collected an outstanding collection of photographs of Ohio’s school buildings – those that are endangered, those that have already been lost, and also a collection of former schools that have found new life through adaptive re-use.

A warning, though – these pictures "tell it as it is." A box of tissues might be in order.

All Day, All Night

Staff — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:58:28 -0400

The Ohio Preservation News reader located on the left side of this blog provides an excellent way to learn what is happening in the word of preservation, downtown and neighborhood revitalization, heritage tourism, smart growth, archeology and local history not only here in Ohio, but across the country.

The site provides short descriptions and links to a wide range of media stories - many of which come from Ohio newspapers, online magazines and blogs. Because it uses RSS, or “Really Simple Syndication,” the reader is updated continuously throughout the day..and night...each time that a local newspaper or media source updates its own site.

To give a glimpse of what can be found - here is a small sampling of stories available just this afternoon from the Ohio Preservation News reader.

Rescue of a historic grandstand at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds

An effort to “save angled parking” in downtowns statewide

The third installment in a series about “Revitalizing Over-the-Rhine”

Efforts to create a quilt tour in Greene County

The unfolding and interesting situation concerning the auction of a historic house in Avondale

How an environmental assessment can aid in the renovation of a 300,000 former factory building in Cincinnati

Coverage of the Restoring Prosperity Conference in Cleveland

An upcoming lecture concerning the 1913 flood in Ohio

A Lincoln exhibit coming to the Auglaize County Public District Library

The summer schedule for the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

A look at a long-lost element of early Cleveland city planning

Video from a living history presentation in Mansfield

A look at what American cities are attracting the GenY generation

A critique of current urban “downsizing” by Richard Florida

The challenges of reaching consensus in local historic preservation legislation

New and Updated Websites

Staff — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 22:23:26 -0400

The new website of the Civil War Preservation Trust includes a variety of features that engage visitors in the effort to save historic battlefields nationwide. Materials for educators and students, a battlefield search tool, and detailed information about efforts to save Civil War history are included, as is an outstanding collection of online battlefield maps. Its well worth a visit.

The Columbus Landmarks Foundation has a newly-updated site designed to acquaint visitors with local preservation issues and efforts. The site was an excellent tool during the recently-concluded City Hop, and includes reference to the Foundation’s other online sites. Links allow visitors to combine learning about sponsored events - including their well-known walking tours - with actual ticket purchasing.

Downtown revitalization websites launched or updated in the last several months include the sites for The Downtown Bellfontaine Partnership, Main Street Medina, and Downtown Fremont.

The website of the University District of The Ohio State University has information on just about everything you would need to enjoy living, working and playing in the area of OSU… from a map of local wi-fi hotspots to the latest on area investment and rental opportunities -- and home preservation efforts.

And - as profiled in a previous post - the Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Resource Center has been updated with information and links to the latest on this important financial incentive for older property rehabilitation. Click here to access.

Photo: Screenshot, CivilWar.org

Boy, That Was Close...

Staff — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 20:39:16 -0400

As the author of the Victorian Antiquities and Design Blog aptly pointed out in a post published today, the Cincinnati preservation community “…could count the day as one for the "win' column, a rare occasion when a house is saved from certain destruction.”

The house in question was a massive (7,870 square feet), Jacobean Revival mansion in the Avondale neighborhood. Some time ago, the blog learned that the house was going to be stripped of many its architectural features, which were to be sold at auction this weekend. E-mails were made to the auction house in an effort to ensure that the property owner was aware that such action would have serious effects, including a substantial reduction in the value of the house for sale to a preservation-minded purchaser.

In an interesting series of posts, the blog expanded its review into an interesting look at the issue of architectural salvage, the role of auction companies in such matters, as well as an examination of the types of renovations proposed for the property post-sale. Over time, the matter also came to the attention of the Cincinnati Preservation Association and our friends at Building Cincinnati, who penned this interesting article yesterday about the situation.

As noted above, the auction in question has been can celled at the last minute. As today’s entry points out, it’s a small “blip” of a victory set against a gigantic struggle -- one exacerbated by the current economy, Ohio’s foreclosure crisis, and the tendency of owners to believe the siren songs of contractors who may have limited practical experience or expertise in the renovation of period buildings.

Help Save Ohio History!

Staff — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:12:22 -0400

Cyberspace has been buzzing over the last week as Ohioans react online to the Ohio Senate’s passage of a version of the biennial budget that calls for dramatic cuts in funding for the Ohio Historical Society.

Everyone knows that the dire economic times call for dramatic action. What is proposed for the Society, however, is nothing short of a gutting of vital programming that will have far-reaching impact over multiple years. The list of lost programs is staggering, and includes the following, according to the Society’s website:

Elimination of teacher training and educational programs that leverage federal funding
Elimination of National History Day in Ohio, a national program which originated in Ohio
Elimination of the Local History Office that serves 800 local history organizations
Elimination of the Civil War Sesquicentennial (2011-2015) initiative
Elimination of the Ohio Historical Markers program
Severe restrictions for OHS services throughout the state
Reduced ability to generate non-state revenues (i.e., federal grants, private revenue)
Reduced access to historic sites and museums
Reduced ability to recruit local organizations to manage sites
Reduced assistance and resources to sites management organizations

Your help is needed as we collectively respond to the potential of these cuts. Here are links to additional information:

Please join OHS and friends of history from across Ohio at noon this Thursday as they RALLY FOR HISTORY! on the grounds of the Ohio Historical Center in Columbus (I-71 at 17th Avenue). Participants will also be able to board busses after the event for meetings with legislators at the Ohio Statehouse. For more information on the rally, please click here.

Photo: crazyanman.history/Creative Commons License

New Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Application Cycles Announced: Resource Center Updated

Staff — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 13:39:51 -0400

On June 4, the Ohio Department of Development issued a press release announcing two new application periods for the Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit (OHPTC).

The first submission window begins on July 1 and extends through September 30. In addition to the new application itself, the Department has also provided a short OHPTC overview, as well as a summary/self-scoring document for use in application preparation. Links to all of these can be found on the primary tax credit page, which be accessed here. It should be noted that new criteria have been added to the application and review process, which take into account various aspects of a project’s geographic diversity and its economic potential.

Preservation Ohio has updated the online Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Resource Center to reflect this new information, and which also provides information about combining the OHPTC with other tax credits and deductions. The Resource Center can be found here.

Photo: Fort Piqua Hotel, Piqua - OZinOH/Creative Commons License

Next Weekend Brings City Hop 2009

Staff — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:32:26 -0400

It’s time again for the annual showcase of urban living in downtown Columbus - City Hop - and this year, as in years past, offerings include both renovated and new infill living spaces.

The event is a reminder of the power of historic architecture to provide incredible places in which to live and work. Some of this year’s stops, such as the newly-renovated “8 on the Square,” are housed in period office structures (this one from 1906; see photo) that have been updated to provide the kind of living space that is financially difficult to replicate. Others, such as CityView, are located in buildings which had dramatically different original purposes - this one constructed as a factory building for a shoe manufacturer.

Of course, the infill projects that have recently sprung up like very welcome weeds in downtown Columbus promote the idea of a walkable, dynamic and dense urban environment. Projects such as Neighborhood Launch and The Annex at River South take their cue from their surroundings and from the history of the area, while adding a 21st century flair.

There’s a lot to see at City Hop, presented by the Columbus Landmarks Foundation. Here are links to relevant resources:

Main City Hop 2009 page on the website of the Columbus Landmarks Foundation - includes a look at each tour stop, tour details, etc..
The new City Hop online magazine
City Hop on Twitter
Podcast about City Hop from Columbus Underground

Photo: 8 on the Square - gorkon280/Creative Commons License

The 2009 List of Ohio's Most Endangered Historic Sites

Staff — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:58:31 -0400

Springfield, Ohio (June 1, 2009) – Preservation Ohio has announced the 2009 List of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites. This important list highlights important pieces of Ohio history that face an uncertain future, and which deserve the attention of all Ohioans as remnants of the past that merit preservation.

Each year, Ohio’s statewide preservation organization searches for houses, commercial buildings, governmental structures, bridges, historic roadways, landscapes, downtowns, neighborhoods and other important pieces of Ohio history that face a potentially risky future. The list serves to highlight those properties which are both historically significant and endangered — whether it be by threats of demolition, long-term disinvestment or neglect, insensitive governmental action, uncertainty or indifference.

Nominations for this important list have come from individuals, preservation organizations, downtown and neighborhood revitalization organizations, historical societies, historic road associations, local governments and other entities. In each case, the property is reviewed for both its value to local, regional, state or federal history, and the nature of the threat involved. Special attention is paid to those sites facing a threat which typifies one facing many of Ohio’s historic resources. Properties remain on the list each year until such time as the threat is lessened.

Designation is similar to that given for the country’s most endangered historic sites by the National Trust for Historic Preservation — the primary benefit of the list being public attention and focus. The list has received substantial media attention, including coverage in all of Ohio’s major newspapers, as well as in magazines, lifestyle publications and local media.

Information about the Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites program can be found on our website, located at: www.preservationohio.org. Beginning on June 2, a link to each listed property will be activated each day, with photos, videos and more to be included. Click here to access a page with an overview of the Ohio's Most Endangered program, links to lists from previous years, a look at the role of endangered lists nationwide, as well as direct links to endangered lists recently released by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and 13 other states.

The 2009 List of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites includes the following sites:

Seneca County Courthouse (1884) - Tiffin, Seneca County – A landmark courthouse, community icon and key asset for downtown revitalization that may soon become the first 19th century Ohio courthouse demolished in a generation. The Seneca County Courthouse has been on the list since 2005.

Greenhills Historic District (1930s) - Greenhills, Hamilton County – A unique, nationally-important planned community near Cincinnati that has been the focus of concern based on village-funded demolitions. Greenhills has been on the list since 2008.

Village of Burton Schoolhouse (1868) - Burton, Geauga County – A unique piece of northeast Ohio architecture that faces an uncertain future as a community decides its fate. The Village of Burton Schoolhouse has been on the list since 2008.

Shawnee Main Street Historic District (Various, 1860-present) - Shawnee, Perry County – An amazing collection of brick and frame commercial buildings with a fascinating past, but which continue to deteriorate. The Shawnee Main Street Historic District has been on the list since 2007.

Mehrum-Lindley Block (1906-1913) - Hamilton, Butler County – This building provides a very important link to the past of Hamilton and the ability of the community to generate downtown revitalization. The Mehrum-Lindley Block has been on the list since 2007.

South High School (1911) - Springfield, Clark County – A massive and monumental educational building replaced under the Ohio School Facilities Commission program yet which has no definite future. South High School has been on the list since 2008.

Edgerton Village Hall/Park Opera House (1884) - Edgerton, Williams County – A town hall with upper-floor opera house that could provide outstanding facilities for local government, but which has been the focus of demolition discussion. The Edgerton Village Hall has been on the list since 2008.

Elam Drake Farmstead (1860s) - Columbus, Franklin County – A collection of historically significant Civil War-era historic buildings near Port Columbus Airport standing vacant with an uncertain future. This is the first year for the Elam Drake Farmstead on the list.

Gunning House (1940) - Reynoldsburg/Columbus, Franklin County – An excellent example of mid 20th-century architecture designed by trained apprentices of Frank Lloyd Wright, threatened by area development and loss. This is the first year for the Gunning House on the list.

Memorial Hall (1915) - Springfield, Clark County – One of the largest of Ohio’s grand memorial buildings honoring local veterans, located in a downtown with a dwindling number of buildings, and currently scheduled for demolition. This is the first year for Memorial Hall on the list.

Former Julienne High School (1926) - Dayton, Montgomery County – A large former Catholic high school with adjoining convent building that are important to local educational and social history, but nevertheless scheduled for replacement and demolition. This is the first year for Julienne High School on the list.

Antioch College Historic District (Various stages beginning in 1854) - Yellow Springs, Greene County – A landmark of national educational history, the original campus has been closed for over a year with concerns over the future of its historic buildings, and awaits hopeful re-opening. This is the first year for Antioch College on the list.

Ohio's Traditional Churches and Synagogues (Various) – Statewide – Ohio’s inner-city religious buildings face an uncertain future with the decline of mainline denominational congregations and aging buildings. This is the first year for Ohio’s Traditional Churches and Synagogues on the list.

Preservation Ohio has been Ohio’s statewide preservation organization since 1982. The mission of the private, non-profit corporation is to secure the ability of Ohio’s rich past to generate pride, economic development and a high quality of life for all Ohioans.