2008 List of Ohio's Most Endangered Historic Sites

Welcome to Ohio's official list of historic properties in peril.

2008 marks the 15th Anniversary of the Most Endangered List, which in that time has served to highlight the most historically significant places in Ohio. This year's edition marks an important change, as for the first time, properties will continue on the list until such time as a threat is removed. Additional properties will then be added to the list each year.

Ohio's Most Endangered is presented by Preservation Ohio, which was established as Ohio's statewide historic preservation organization in 1982. For 26 years, our organization has been working to advance the idea that an appreciation of history can provide both outstanding quality of life and sustainable economic development for Ohio communities. For more information on Preservation Ohio, click on the link to the left.

The purpose of this list is to draw significant attention to important pieces of local history that also have regional and/or statewide importance. Many face challenges similar to threats faced by older properties on a daily basis -- this year including deferred maintenance, a lack of funding, government action, a lack of awareness, uncertainty, unsympathetic development and, in the case of Ohio's historic schools, continued willingness of the state to subsidize the loss of Ohio history. Included are a county courthouse, an entire planned community, a small-town downtown, and three specific historic school buildings. This list represents the result of a selection process that highlights only the most important properties statewide, and not all nominations to the list are successful.

Unfortunately, being placed on this list does not guarantee a favorable outcome. Unlike the process used by some other organizations to determine eligibility for their lists, we strive to include the most important resources, no matter how far a threat has progressed. The list is designed to increase awareness and to focus attention on significant pieces of Ohio history. Former editions of this list have aided in the preservation of historic resources, and have been covered by local, regional and statewide media.

Be sure to review the "Endangered Watch List," which can be accessed via the link to the left. This list takes a look at properties that are in imminent danger, and is updated on a regular basis.

The 2008 List is being publicly unveiled on Friday, May 9, with the first individual site page (for the Seneca County Courthouse) activated the same day. Each weekday thereafter, at least one additional site page will come online, until all 13 properties can be accessed.

The following properties constitute the 2008 List of Ohio's Most Endangered Historic Sites:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Seneca County Courthouse
Tiffin, Seneca County

A heartbreaking impending loss for Tiffin, Seneca County and the State of Ohio.

Click here
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Arcade Buildings
Dayton, Montgomery County