In its heyday, downtown Dayton bustled with retail activity, from small shops to massive department stores with so many amenities that they almost served as mini cities of their own. I tell the story of Rike’s in my book Lost Dayton, but today’s article will be about … [Read more...] about History of Sears and Roebuck in Downtown Dayton
Work Underway at Graphic Arts Building?
In the last couple of days, there has been activity spotted at the Graphic Arts Building downtown. Part of the Terra-Cotta Historic District, the building is located just south of the intersection of Fifth and Ludlow Streets, across Ludlow from the Third Perk coffee … [Read more...] about Work Underway at Graphic Arts Building?
Miami & Erie Canal History: When and Where was Dayton’s Canal?
That Dayton once had a canal run directly through it is no secret. There are even several remaining references to this unique chapter in history, such as the park-like Canal Walk near the ballpark and Canal Street Arcade and Deli across the street. But some details about … [Read more...] about Miami & Erie Canal History: When and Where was Dayton’s Canal?
Juicery Closing Deals Blow to Santa Clara Business District
When the owners of the Santa Clara Juicery opened up their storefront on North Main Street in 2018, they hoped to bring hope to a struggling neighborhood. "We’re the first new storefront in the community in 15 years," said co-owner Elizabeth Furst at the time. "We want to … [Read more...] about Juicery Closing Deals Blow to Santa Clara Business District
Dayton, Arcade Getting Plenty of National Attention
This year there has been quite a bit of national attention on Dayton, Ohio. Much was due to the horrible series of tragedies the Gem City endured. But beyond the Memorial Day tornadoes and the Oregon District shooting, here have been other reasons Dayton has been in the … [Read more...] about Dayton, Arcade Getting Plenty of National Attention
The Santa Clara Business District: History and Preservation
We recently wrote about two architectural gems on North Main Street in Riverdale. Continuing north a few blocks we find an impressively intact group of commercial buildings: the Santa Clara Business District. Historically this was a thriving area for shopping and … [Read more...] about The Santa Clara Business District: History and Preservation
Edgemont’s Industrial History: Green & Green (Sunshine) Biscuit Co, Kroger, etc.
Dayton's Edgemont neighborhood dates back to 1853. It grew rapidly during the latter half of the 19th century and became home to a diverse group of residents including Germans, Italians, and African-Americans. Many flocked to this "industrial suburb" to seek employment in … [Read more...] about Edgemont’s Industrial History: Green & Green (Sunshine) Biscuit Co, Kroger, etc.
History of Patterson Homestead (Rubicon Farm)
Brown Street near the University of Dayton is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, but one structure dates back to a time when the area looked completely different. The Patterson Homestead (also known as Rubicon Farm) was built in 1816, making it one of Dayton’s … [Read more...] about History of Patterson Homestead (Rubicon Farm)
Dayton Demolition Watch: St. Joseph School
The Webster Station area is currently booming with new construction as well as the redevelopment of historic structures. But according to multiple sources, one of the oldest buildings in the neighborhood is in danger of being demolished. Historic preservationist Andrew … [Read more...] about Dayton Demolition Watch: St. Joseph School
Update: Arcade, Fire Blocks Construction Progress (And When Will They Open?)
There are two major projects underway that aim to transform major sections of downtown Dayton. And these developments are transitioning from ideas to reality as increasing construction activity has started to bring the historic structures back to life. Let's look at a few … [Read more...] about Update: Arcade, Fire Blocks Construction Progress (And When Will They Open?)