Nomination for High Street Commercial Block

From the form

The catalogue entry the section above was filed under.

NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018 (Rev. 10-90) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service JAN 20 NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES REGISTRATION FORM the information requested.If any item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "N/A" for "not applicable." For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions. Place additional entries and narrative 1. Name of Property Historic name High Street Commercial Block Other names/site number Second National Bank Building, Howell-Sohngen Building, McCrory's (BUT 727-9) 2. Location street & number 228, 232, 236 High Street n/a [ not for publication city or town Hamilton n/a D vicinity state Ohio code OH county Butler zip 45011 code 017 3.

State/Federal Agency Certification As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act of1966, as amended, I hereby certify that this KA nomination -request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in the National Register of Historic Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. In my opinion, the property Xk meets - does not meet the National Register Criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant nationally D Ohio Historic Preservation Office State or Federal agency and bureau In my opinion, the property - meets [ does not meet the National Register criteria. (- See continuation sheet for additional Signature of commenting or other official 4.

National Park Service Certification 1, hereby certify that this property is: determined not eligible for the - See continuation sheet. removed from the National Register other (explain): Date of Action comments.) Date National Register Signature of certifying official entered in the National Register This form is for use in nominating or requesting determinations for individual properties and districts. See instructions in How to Complete the National 3/3/04 Butler County, Ohio 5. Classification Ownership of Property Category of Property Number of Resources within Property (Check as many boxes as apply) (Do not include previously listed resources in the count) X private - building(s) C public-local XX district - public-State - site - structure - object Name of related multiple property listing Number of contributing resources previously listed 6.

Function or Use COMMERCE/department store COMMERCE/business=office building 7. Description STONE, sandstone ASPHALT, rubber STONE, limestone (Describe the historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) Noncontributing Foundation roof BRICK other Total Materials Vacant public-Federal Architectural Classification Narrative Description COMMERCE/financial=bank Italianate walls Historic Functions (Enter categories from instructions) Current Functions See Attached High Street Commercial Block in the National Register (Check only one box) NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places High Street Commercial Block Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Section number construction.

Many nearby façades are concealed by metal false fronts similar to the one that once covered (see photo 1-3). The Block includes three buildings constructed between 1874 and 1878. The buildings fill the Renaissance Revival Styles. As a block, the buildings retain almost all historic wood and metal windows. Two false front as it appeared in 1992 and modified storefronts. Other elevations of the block retain historic elements. The west elevation has common bond brick with historic elevation. A building once abutted the east wall and was razed. The lot slopes away from High Street so the 228 HIGH STREET-SECOND NATIONAL BANK storefront with a raised walk-up entrance and an English Basement with stone arched details and pitch faced blocks (see historic photo 7). The first floor was lowered five feet around the time of the occupation of the A& P grocery in 1935 (see historic photos 14,15).

Subsequent businesses,including David Shoes, made further Page (8-86) Narrative Description Second National Bank of Hamilton.This three bay wide masonry building with sandstone facade is the located within one block of the High Street Commercial Block are of similar scale with masonry and stone Street, a once vibrant commercial corridor. block is three stories in height with varied footprints, massing, and architectural details. The architect(s) for the buildings are currently unknown. The façades are sandstone and exhibit elements of Italianate and First of the three façades have partially missing cornices due to a false front added in the 1950s and removed in 1993. The false front caused little damage to the façades below the cornice.

Metal paneling from the mid surrounds with painted depictions of the original storefront configurations conceal the first floor of all three sashes and lights of varying types located at all floor levels (see description that follows). The east elevation is within forty inches of the north elevation. The second level of the garage extends over Market Street so that the basement and a portion of the first floor of the block are visible from Market Street. The majority of historic The Second National Bank building, 228 High Street, is an Italianate style building constructed in 1874 by the smallest of the three buildings in the block, occupying approximately of the property footprint (see photo 7). alterations in the 1940s such that the existing storefront retains little evidence from its original raised stone arrow motif.

The pressed metal cornice was almost entirely removed around 1955 with the installation of a pedestrian walkway, to its west and a setback contemporary one story building to the east. Each building in the 1950s false front installation conceals cornice remnants on 228 and 232 High Street. Currently, plywood basement levels sit closer to street level along Market Street. A concrete city garage, built circa 1975, imposes windows remain. The roof of 228 and 232 High Street are flat asphalt systems dating from around 1970. The blocks. The third floor has two-over-two double hung windows with decorative flat piers exhibiting a carved NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places High Street Commercial Block Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Section number construction.

Metal panels conceal other portions of the original cornice. west elevations of each building form a single continuous wall penetrated by windows. The Second National segmental arched lintels and wire safety glass. The third floor andpart of the second floor have three light casements. Part of the second floor and part of the first floor has double hung two-over-two and three-over- addition after fire burned the original single story wing. floor. The first floor has recent finishes that may conceal further historic elements. The basement, first and covers the location of a large rectangular opening that once existed between the first and second floors. Some the second floor (see photo 10). A utilitarian, shed skylight (see photo 12) sits in the northeast corner on the third floor and was added after 1900.

The Second National Bank Building and the adjacent Howell-Sohngen Building are linked from the basement through the third floor. The connections were added before 1910 due to 232 HIGH STREET HOWELL- SOHNGEN BUILDING The center building, 232 High Street or the Howell-Sohngen Building, was also designed in the Italianate style The first floor has a modified storefront with masonry infill and recent glazed entrance. The historic storefront is well documented and once had Luxfor glass at the transom level and a protruding glass display window (see historic photo 7). Little if any of the storefront remains after alterations done around 1935 and 1939 for Lees floor is characterized by paired arches with engaged columns. The one-over-one double hung wood windows system. Its installation caused little damage to the building below the roofline.

The Howell-Sohngen Building has the largest footprint within the High Street Commercial Block due to its "L" shape surrounding the Second National Bank Building. The rear "L" was added sometime between 1902 and Page (8-86) a fire. The south elevation is masonry and iron beam construction. The south elevation windows are steel perforated metal false front system. The fascia area below the cornice retains carved panels from the original The west elevation of the Second National Bank Building and the Howell-Sohngen Building have frontage along Journal Alley, a pedestrian connection between High Street and Market Street (See photos 4-6). The Bank continues eleven bays along the alley. Two-over-two wood windows with flat stone sills and lintels retain stone lintels.

The west elevation of the Howell-Sohngen Building continues twelve bays along the alley adjacent to the west elevation of the Second National Bank. The windows are early metal fire sashes with The interior of the Second National Bank Building has an open plan and retains historic fabric above the first neoclassical style tin ceiling with simple wreath details (see photos 10, 11). The original bank vault survives on the occupation of the upper floors of 228 High Street by the Mathes-Sohngen Department store (See Historic photo 7). Metal fire doors separate the third floors of the buildings in two locations. are arched at the top. The metal cornice was removed during the application of a perforated metal false front 1907 as a three story rear addition that replaced a previous single story rear wing with basement that burned in three light windows with transom lights.

The west elevation dates from a circa 1902-1907 reconstruction/atrium of the original tin survives around the periphery of the first floor (see photo 9). The second floor has a NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places High Street Commercial Block Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Section number The first floor has an open plan with perforated dropped ceiling over a historic pressed tin ceiling. Pressed tin ceilings and plaster walls are evident in all exposed areas in the basement, first, second and third floors (see decorative plaster on the third floor. Marquee-type lighting, centered within rosettes, adorns the vertical portion 236 HIGH STREET, DAVIS-McCRORY BUILDING on the Second National Bank Building.

The cornice may be original as this building was never covered by a false front. The cornice has octagonal modillions. The south elevation is a single story with basement with masonry construction. Two-over-two wood windows The interior has a general open plan with plaster walls and pressed tin ceilings on the first floor. The original and west walls access the basement and upper floors respectively. The pressed metal ceilings on the first floor date from around 1918 when McCrory's expanded from the east storefront to occupy the entire floor. Colonial Page (8-86) Commercial Block historic photos 9-12).The building maintains evidence of all skylights and the openings (see historic photos 9-12). Two small rectangular skylights were augmented as part of the addition cast iron railings once bordered each opening are partially salvaged offsite. associated three story atria.

The skylight openings on the third floor are defined by deep soffits finished with encased behind wood build-out. The stair continues to the first floor and was partially enclosed below the third floor. Two elevators once serviced all floors of the building. One elevator shaft remains along the east wall. suggesting that underneath lays existing stone from the original storefront. The original storefront once had a characterized by two-over-one double hung wood windows articulated with stone framing. The third floor has segmental arched windows with two-over-two double hung wood windows. The central bay on the second and Howell-Sohngen Building, the building sits within 40 inches of a large concrete parking garage. The garage configuration had a central stair flanked by two storefronts (see historic photo 8).

Stairs located on the east Billiards had an off High Street entrance to its basement billiard hall (see historic photo 6, photo 27). Shallow bowling lanes are still evident in the basement with white tile wainscoting and granite floor molding. Partitions on the second floor appear to be later additions. The second and third floors have wood plank floors, plaster have been floored over and covered with tin ceiling with a pattern less ornate than the original tin. Decorative photos 15-23). The tin ceilings in the Howell-Sohngen Building are the most ornate within the High Street rosettes. The building has molded plaster composite columns with acanthus scrolls and wreaths. An open stair On the east end of the block at 236 High Street sits a rare example of the First Renaissance Revival style in was constructed between 1875 and 1878.

The building is five bays wide with a pronounced middle bay. It has a single storefront around 1918 when McCrory's took over the entire first floor. The second floor is third floors is capped with a pediment that has a scrolled shape and employs the carved motifs similar to those have flat stone lintels and sills. Iron security bars fill each window opening. Like the south elevation of the utility type garage opening (see photo 14). walls and exposed beam ceilings. The third floor has a dividing wall with wood transom windows above NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No.

1024-0018 National Park Service High Street Commercial Block Butler County, Ohio Section number The High Street Commercial Block maintains a sufficient degree of integrity and is an important visual and Block were altered with infill masonry, metal panel and modern glass because they were part of a vibrant early ceilings remain largely intact. Evidence of the octagonal and rectangular skylight openings in the Howell- Hamilton developed as the commercial heart of Butler County. Page Continuation Sheet National Register of Historic Places United States Department Of The Interior (8-86) structural asset to Hamilton's downtown commercial district. The storefronts in the High Street Commercial to mid 20t century commercial corridor. Each building in the block has a full basement. The first floors reflect the changes in retail tenants and all have historic tin ceilings.

On upper floors, the plaster walls and pressed tin original storefront. Modern glazing replaced all other storefront fabric. doorways(see photo 28).The existing storefront configuration appears to conceal some sandstone from the High Street Commercial Block Butler County, Ohio 8. Statement of Significance

Statement of significance

for National Register listing) X A Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad-patterns of Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. X C Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction. Property has yielded, or is likely to yield information important in prehistory or history. ca. 1878 (Mark "X" in all the boxes that apply.) ca. 1902 -A owned by a religious institution or used for (Complete if Criterion B is marked above) - B removed from its original location. - C a birthplace or a grave - D a cemetery. - E a reconstructed building, object, or structure. - F a commemorative property.

within the past 50 years. Narrative Statement of Significance (Explain the significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) 9.

The rest of the file

Bibliography, boundary description, and the people who prepared and reviewed the nomination.

Major Bibliographical References (Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets.) - preliminary determination of individual listing (36 CFR - State Historic Preservation Office 67) has been requested. - Other State agency - previously listed in the National Register - Federal agency - previously determined eligible by the National X Local government - University - designated a National Historic Landmark X Other - recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey Name of repository: Cummins Collection-Lane Library -recordedby Historic American Engineering Record Commerce Architecture Register Bibliography 1874-1953 Criteria Considerations Property is: religious purposes.

Significant Dates Cultural Affiliation Significant Person Architect/Builder Period of Significance Applicable National Register Criteria Areas of Significance G less than 50 years of age or achieved significance our history. Previous documentation on file (NPS): Primary location of additional data: (Enter categories from instructions) (Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the property NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places High Street Commercial Block Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Section number Statement of Significance The High Street Commercial Block is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A in Building was constructed, and ends in 1953 to include the commercial development of the block.

near the Butler County Courthouse along High Street, the main street of Hamilton. The bulk of early commerce occupied four blocks along High Street situated between the Miami River and the Cincinnati, Hamilton and 1930 new franchises of businesses maintained occupancy in the block like the Atlantic Pacific Grocery (A&P), commercial districts of the 20th century to keep up with increasingly competitive markets like the one that existed in Hamilton. goods stores. The transition continued further in the 20°century with the replacement of local businesses with service was also a revolution that made for the extinction of dry goods stores to make way for customer based retailing. Railroads were getting a wider variety of goods into the stores and the stores had to stay competitive commercial center in southwest Ohio.

Two of the three buildings, the Second National Bank Building (228 High Page (8-86) the early 2oth century. The merger of multiple locally owned dry goods stores into consolidated department the founders of the Robinson-Schwenn Department Store (NR,2ooo) who started out in the original T.V. the area of commerce and Criterion C for architecture. The buildings are associated with the development of Butler County well into the 20* century. The late nineteenth century sandstone facades employ Italianate and Howell Dry Goods store at 232 High Street. As the local businesses moved out of the block between 1910 and JC Penney and McCrory's. The new breed of retail altered the storefronts as is typical to most thriving stores was a notable trend in retailing early in the years of department stores. The consolidation of multiple national chains such as A&P grocery stores, J.C.

Penney, and McCrory's discount stores. The desire for self- The buildings were built during the early years of Hamilton's development into an important industrial and Street) and the Howell-Sohngen Building (232 High Street) exemplify Italianate architecture.

The third building, increased in size and constructed or relocated to other nearby buildings like the Second National Bank and businesses still survive along High Street.Other enterprises moved into largerbuildings in the downtown like century.Various enterprises began in the block including the Second National Bank and examples of Strauss Bros.Department Store(215 and 226 High Street respectively).The buildings that housed both First renaissance revival details that are unrivaled in the city.No other comparable late nineteenth century Hamilton's central business district beginning in the third-quarter of the 19th century through the mid-2oth OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places High Street Commercial Block Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Page Revival style.

Before the block was constructed, wood frame residences and wood frame commercial having the characteristics of a Victorian 'Two-part Commercial Block' where the increased degree of construction of the early 19th century and embracing of popular styles and forms typical to the mid to late industrial Hamilton. BACKGROUND HISTORY: Ludlow such that High Street continued east from the location of the fort and provided the locus for the over 40,000 between 1888 and 1910. The population of all of Butler County in 1910 was 70,271 (census data, between $600,000 and $700,000.and three National Banks each having capital of $100,000" (McClung).

Most of these businesses were located within two city blocks of the High Street Commercial Block at the turn of The Second National Bank Building, 228 High Street, was constructed in 1874 by the Second National Bank Street for twenty years until the 1950s when a series of shoe stores took occupancy. the help of George P. Sohngen, the vice president and president of the Second National Bank and what was (8-86) the century. NPS Form 10-900-a Section number. 8 nineteenth century. In this way, the block is atestament to the economic prosperity and growth of early expansion of the city. Hamilton became the county seat of Butler County in 1803 and traded its agricultural goods via the river during its first half century.

Multiple industries migrated to Hamilton from Cincinnati to take industries developed along the river and allowed the downtown to experience a sharp period of growth similar City of Hamilton). By 1892, "eighteen dry goods stores were located in Hamilton doing a yearly business of The Bank remained at 228 for nearly sixty years when it constructed a new Art Moderne bank building in 1931 at 215 High Street. In 1931the bank sold the buildingto the Mathes-Sohngen Department store located next door in 232 High Street. Under the occupancy of the department store, multiple openings were created on retail trends of the day (see Historic Photo 14).

The first floor was later shared by the businesses in 232 High dry good's remained at 232 High Street until 1907 when the newly formed Mathes-Sohngen Department Store ornamentation and attention to the high styles of the day were meant to enhance the beauty of the downtown advantage of the inexpensive land and the Hamilton Hydraulic power system created in 1828. Strong vibrant commercial district that solidified along High Street. The population of Hamilton swelled from 17,500 to began a malting company in 1858 that was at one time the largest in southwest Ohio. The Sohngen family remains important to the community in Hamilton due to a long history of entrepreneurial involvement. Howell's NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No.

1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places High Street Commercial Block Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Section number Page The Howell-Sohngen Building occupies the largest area of the High Street Commercial Block. The interior, though worn from vacancy, retains ample historic fabric. Decorative plaster capitals with neoclassical wreaths patterned tin was installed over atrium openings in both 228 and 232 High Street signifying that the enclosures The Davis-McCrory Building was constructed between 1876 and 1878 between the time William Beckett, owner of the prosperous Beckett Paper Mill in Hamilton and proprietor of the Cincinnati, Hamilton and longer exists along High Street. Sohngen Department Store partnered with Strauss to contend with the Robinson-Schwenn Department store occupation of the first floor.

It is likely that the stairs to the upper floors were moved to the west wall early The architect or architects for the block are currently unknown. Multiple 1g century buildings along High Street tile. The similarity of the stonework employed on all three buildings and closeness in dates of construction Block is the only known remaining 1870s commercial block in Hamilton. The rise of high style carved stone and retailing methods altered the buildings,the majority of historic fabric dating from the original time of construction remains. The block is an anchor along the High Street commercial corridor that represents the commercial development of Hamilton. (8-86) of the atrium spaces occurred with consideration to the existing fabric.Historic images included at the end of location included Lees Inc Dry Goods, J.C. Penney Company and Stienburgs Clothing.

Section 7 illustrate the Howell-Sohngen Building's original interior grandeur that is still evident today. National Bank began in a wood frame building known as Beckett's Block,' constructed in the early 1860s original location for both Second National Bank and Strauss & Co. Hamilton Branch. This early building no By 1894 Strauss & Co. Clothing Storehad occupied240 High Street for almostten years. Strauss & Co. during McCrory's occupation. The current tin ceiling dates from the same time. amidst a largely vernacular masonry or wood constructed streetscape demonstrates that these buildings are a Indianapolis Railroad, sold the parcels to John P. Davis, Lou Curtis and John E. Shepherd in 1875 and 1876 received false fronts or were demolished for new construction during the 2oth century. No other apparent NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018 (Rev.

10-90) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES CONTINUATION SHEET Section number g Page 1 High Street Commercial Block Butler County, Ohio Bartlow, Bert S. ED, Joseph J. Pater, Stephen D. Cone, and others. Centenial History of Butler County, Ohio. Butler: 1905. Cone, Stephen D. Biographical and Historical Sketches: A Narrative of Hamilton & its Residents. Hamilton: Republican Publishing Company, 1890. In Memoriam: William Beckett. Hamilton: Republican Pub. Co., 1896. Leech, William R. Land of Desire; Merchants, Power, and the rise of a new American Culture. New York: Pantheon Books, 1993. Longstreth, Richard. The Buildings of Main Street: A guide to American Commercial Architecture. Washington: The Preservation Press, 1987. McClung, D.W. Editor. The Centennial Anniversary of the City of Hamilton, Ohio. Hamilton, 1892.

Schwartz, James. Hamilton Ohio: Its Architecture and History. Hamilton: American Press, 1986. "Map of High Street Fifty Years Ago Showing Businesses," Hamilton Daily News. Dec. 201928. "T.V. Howell & Son [new location advertisement]." Butler County Democrat and Guidon. Sep. 16, 1875. Maps and Photographs Combination Atlas Map of Butler County, OH. L.H. Everts Co, 1875. Cummins Photograph Collection, Lane Public Library. Photograph Collection, Butler County Historical Society. Sanborn Insurance Map Company, Hamilton, Ohio maps. 1887, 1892, 1899, 1927, 1950. "Strauss Golden Jubilee, Our Fiftieth Anniversary." Strauss Company: 1924. Deed index of conveyances and encumbrances and various specific deeds between 1875 and 1993. Ohio Historic Inventory form, 236 High Street, Walsh/Merrit, 1983.

(BUT-729) National Register Nominations: Butler County Courthouse, 1981 Dixon/Globe Opera House/Robinson Schwenn Building, 2000. German Village Historic District, 1990. Rossville Historic District, 1975. The Hamilton Historic Civic Center, 1995. City of Hamilton Planning Department Census Data Newspapers Books Other Pamphlet Bibliographic References "Illustrated Supplement of Our Fiftieth Year,"Hamilton Daily News.Oct.27,1927. NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018 (Rev. 10-90) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES CONTINUATION SHEET Section number g Page 2 High Street Commercial Block Butler County, Ohio Web http://freepages.history.rootsweb.com/~butlercounty/hamilton.html http://recenter.tamu.edu/data/popmd/pm3200.htm Bibliographic References High Street Commercial Block Butler County, Ohio 10.

Geographical Data Acreage of Property 0.43 acres (Place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet) 1 16 710040 4363780 Verbal Boundary Description (Describe the boundaries of the property on a continuation sheet.) Boundary Justification (Explain why the boundaries were selected on a continuation sheet.) 11. Form Prepared By name/title organization Laura Previll & Diana Wellman, Sandvick Architects, Inc.

_date 9-15-03 street & number 1265 West Sixth Street, Suite 200 telephone(216) 621-8055 city or town Cleveland Submit the following items with the completed form: A USGS map (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property's location Additional items (Check with the SHPO or FPO for any additional items) Property Owner (Complete this item at the request of the SHPO or FPO.) name George Schmidt street & number 633 High Street telephone (513) 887-0500 Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: This information is being collected for applications to the National Register of Historic Places to nominate instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or any aspect of Photographs Additional Documentation UTM References Zone Easting Northing Continuation Sheets See continuation sheet.

state Ohio zip code 44113 A Sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources. _zip code 45011 benefit in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.). Estimated Burden Statement: Public reporting burden for this form is estimated to average 18.1 hours per response including the time for reviewing this form to the Chief, Administrative Services Division, National Park Service, P.0. Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127; and the Office of NPS Form 10-900 OMB No. 1024-0018 (Rev. 10-90) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES CONTINUATION SHEET Section number 10 Page 1 Butler County, Ohio Verbal Boundary Description The High Street Commercial Block is located on the north side of High Street between Second and Third Avenues, south No.

113 in the City of Hamilton, designated on the Hamilton County plat. The permanent parcel numbers are 64-66, also known as Lot 113. The nominated buildings sit within the confines of a single lot divided into three parcels. The lot constitutes the boundary for the property during the period of significance. Justification Geographical Data High Street Commercial Block NPS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Butler County, Ohio Black and White Photographs Photographs taken by Diana Wellman on July 28, 2003 and Laura Previll on October 17, 2003 Location of negatives: Sandvick Architects, Inc. 1265 West 6** Street Cleveland, Ohio 44113 See sketch maps for photo locations 1.

Contextual streetscape, buildings right of center, camera direction W Overall South Façade of the Mercantile Block, camera direction N South façade and Journal Square passage, camera direction NE Upper West elevation along Journal Square passage, camera direction S Lower West elevation along Journal Square passage, camera direction N 7. 228 High Street Second National Bank Building, south façade, camera direction N Interior 228 High Street first floor, camera direction N 9. Interior 228 High Street first floor, view through dropped ceiling to original ceiling, camera direction E (up) 10. Interior 228 High Street, second floor, bank vault, camera direction N 11. Interior second floor 228 High Street, windows, camera direction NW 12. Interior 228 High Street third floor, shed skylight, camera direction NE 14.

North elevation 232,236 High Street, under parking garage at Market Street, camera direction SE 16. Interior 232 High Street second floor, exposed cast iron railings in stair, camera direction SW 17. Interior 232 High Street second floor, overall view of stair, camera direction W 19. Interior 232 High Street third floor, detail view of octagonal skylight plaster soffit, camera direction E 20. Interior 232 High Street, octagonal skylight soffit, camera direction E 21. Interior 232 High Street third floor, octagonal opening at ceiling, camera direction NW 23. Interior 232 High Street third floor, column, camera direction E 24. 236 High Street, Davis-McCrory Building, south façade, camera direction N 27. Interior 236 High Street first floor, camera direction S 28.

Interior 236 High Street third floor, door with transom, camera direction NW Page (8-86) Continuation Sheet Section numberPhotosAdditional Information High Street Commercial Block An abridged set for the NPS is printed on 5X7 archival paper and listed separately below. 13. 232 High Street Howell-Sohngen Building, south façade, camera direction N 15. Interior 232 High Street first floor, plaster column capital and pressed metal ceilings, camera direction N 18. Interior 232 High Street third floor, detail view of one rectangular skylight plaster soffit, camera direction S 22. Interior 232 High Street third floor, textured casement windows, camera direction NW 25. 236 High Street east elevation and adjacent building detail, camera direction NW 26. 236 High Street, Davis-McCrory Building, north elevation (upper floors), camera direction S OMB Approval No.

1024-0018 United States Department Of The Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Butler County, Ohio Section numberPhotosAdditional Information Enlarged NPS ARCHIVAL SET: Number in bold parenthesis corresponds to sketch maps and photo number in full set above. 1. (2) Overall South Façade of the Mercantile Block, camera direction N 2. (4) Upper West elevation along Journal Square passage, camera direction S 3. (10) Interior 228 High Street, second floor, bank vault, camera direction N 4. (12) Interior 228 High Street third floor, shed skylight, camera direction NE 8. (19) Interior 232 High Street third floor, detail view of octagonal skylight soffit, camera direction E 11. (23) Interior 232 High Street third floor, column, camera direction 12. (27) Interior 236 High Street first floor, camera direction S 13.

(28) Interior 236 High Street third floor, door with transom, camera direction NW 2. circa 1890s, newspaper cutout, Second National Bank Building and partial view of 232 High Street 3. Between 1895 and 1902, Patriotic holiday decorations along High Street, all façades visible 4. 1911, Knights of Pythias Convention, parade 5.Between 1895 and 1902, High Street, Mercantile Block located on right side of image. 6. 1918, snow scene along High Street, Mercantile block behind snow brigade 7. circa 1910, Second National Bank Building and Howell-Sohngen Building façades 8. circa1900,interior storefront of the Strauss Clothing and Shoe Store at 240 High Street 9. circa 1910, interior Mathes-Sohngen Department Store first floor at 232 High Street 10. circa 1910, interior Mathes-Sohngen Department Store second floor, octagonal atrium 11.

circa1910, interior Mathes-Sohngen Department Store second floor, rectangular atria tin ceilings 12. circa 1910, interior Mathes-Sohngen Department Store third floor, octagonal atrium 13. 1913, during the flood of the Great Miami River, storefronts in view 14. 1935, partial view of 228 and 232 High Street, A & P Grocery Store and Lee's 15. Between 1942 and 1944, façades of 228 and 232 High Street, David Shoes and J.C. Penney 16. 1992, Mercantile Block prior to false front removal 17. 1993, Mercantile Block after false front removal, view of existing storefronts. (8-86) Page High Street Commercial Block NPS Form 10-900-a 5. (14) North elevation 232, 236 High Street, under parking garage at Market Street, camera direction SE 6.(17) Interior 232 High Street second floor, overall view of stair, camera direction W 7.

(18) Interior 232 High Street third floor, detail view of one rectangular skylight soffit, camera direction S 9.(21)Interior 232 High Street third floor, octagonal opening at ceiling, camera direction NW Historic and Supplemental Images (printed on archival paper) 1. 1889, From across an unpaved High Street to the facades of the Mercantile Block NATIONAL PARK SERVICE EVALUATION/RETURN SHEET NAME : DATE OF 16TH DAY: DATE OF 45TH DAY: DATE OF WEEKLY LIST: REASONS FOR REVIEW: OTHER : N PERIOD: COMMENT WAIVER: N ABSTRACT/SUMMARY COMMENTS: DOCUMENTATION see attached comments Y/N see attached SLR Y/N If a nomination is returned to the nominating authority, the TELEPHONE DATE REJECT RETURN MULTIPLE 2/26/04 DISCIPLINE 1/20/04 3/04/04 REVIEWER RECOM./CRITERIA PDIL: National Register nomination is no longer under consideration by the NPs.

PROGRAM UNAPPROVED: DATE RECEIVED: NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bntered in the APPEAL: N DATA PROBLEM: N LANDSCAPE: N LESS THAN 50 YEARS: N SLR DRAFT: N STATE & COUNTY: OHIO, Butler ACCEPT NATIONAL: BLAIR Hamilton OH Butler Co. Mercantite Block WM. E. BROWN, President. GEO. P. SOHNGEN, Vice President C. E. HEISER, Cashier. Ine Secona National Bank. Hamilton OH Mercantile Block Butler Co.,0 1H STRAUSS 3 HIGH ST, COMMERCIAL Hamilton OH Mercantile Block HIGH ST HAMILTON, O Hamilton oH Butler Co, Butler Co. HanmiltonOH BANK PAINLESS Hamilton OH SECOND ButlerCo, Hamilton OH by George Cummins Remember When.. Hamilton OH Butler Co, Butler Co. Hamilton OH Hamilton OH Hamilton OH Butler Co. Hamilton OH Hamilton OH Butler Co. Hamilton OH Butler Co, J.C.PENNEY COMPANY Hamilton OH Butler Co.

Hamilton OH Block Hospital Mile x O Recreation 708 35 ROSS 6 MI. SPRINGDALE 8 MI. CINCINNATI 21 MI. 7000 FEET 1 KILOMETER MERCANTILE BLOCK NATIONAL GEODETIC VERTICAL DATUM OF 1929 BUTLER CO., OHIO UTM REFERENCES R OF SHEET THIS MAP COMPLIES WITH NATIONAL MAP ACCURACY STANDARDS :h American Datum 1983 FOR SALE BY U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY Revisions shown in purple and woodland c DENVER, COLORADO 80225 OR RESTON, VIRGINIA 22092 with State of Ohio agencies from aerial ph A FOLDER DESCRIBING TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS AND SYMBOLS IS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST Map edited 1988 Purple tint indicates extension of urban ar 1000 5000 3000 2000 4000 6000 712 SHARON Hamilton Center Athletic shed corner ticks OHIO GNETIC NORTH SCALE 1:24000 eters south and CONTOUR INTERVAL 1O FEET 32'30" City (NIGHTSÉRIDGE - (GREENHILLS) R.2 T.1 1FAIRFIELD 26 M1.

1 MILE FLAMINGO Monroe GREAT MIAMI Field Sch 709 PARKING GARAGE 114 / HIGH STREET COMMERCIAL BLOCK SCALE 1" approx.

100' 228, 232, 236 HIGH STREET HAMILTON, OHIO SKETCH MAP 1 BUTLER COUNTY 113 111 127 112 125 126 26821 HIGH ST THIRD ST MARKET ST SECOND ST / 116 115 PARKING HIGH STREET COMMERCIAL BLOCK SCALE 1" = 64' 228, 232, 236 HIGH STREET HAMILTON, OHIO SKETCH MAP 2 BUTLER COUNTY THIRD FLOOR BASEMENT SECOND FLOOR FIRST FLOOR 199'-6" - 55 -112 - 101-02 HIGH STREET MARKET STREET 16'-7 Hamilton OH, BUTLER COUNTY BUTLER COUNTY > 233 -303.08.01PM00:41 Vans / JON's INAGING 71 HamitonoH, BUTLER COUNTY BUTLER COUNTY Hamilton OH, BUTLER COUNTY High Street Conmercial Block Vans / JON"s IMAGING 44 233 -7 03.08.01PN00:27 High street commercial Block BUTLER COUNTY Hamilton oH BUTLER COUNTY Vans / JON's IMAGING 47 BUTLER COUNTY > 233 -703.08.01PN00:13 Vans / JON'S INAGING 9 BUTLER COUNTY High Street Commercial Block BUTLER COUNT - 233 -5 03.08.01PM00:18 Vans / JON's IMAGING 41 BUTLER COUNTy HigH street Commercial Block.

BUTLER COUNTY Hami HonOH High Street Conm me reine Block Hamilton OH BUTLER COUNTY > 233 -7 03.08.01PM100:27 AnmiltonOH, BUTLER COUNTY Vans / JON's INAGING 49 High Street Commercial Block Hamilton, oH High Street commercial Block Hamilton, OH Reference Number High Street Commercial Block Nomination Form X Photographs (missing #16) 04000113 USGS Map Ohio Property Name The following Core Documentation is missing from this entry: Missing Core Documentation Butler County, County, State ROAD CLASSIFICATION 7.5 MINUTE SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC) GEOLOGICAL SURVEY UNITED STATES HAMILTON, OHIO Butler Co., OH DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR HAMILTON QUADRANGLE COMMERCIAL SURVEY CU (216) 771-3995 Mercantile OFFICES OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL Telephone (513) 785-7040 Fax (513) 785-7051 Web Site http://www.hamilton-city.org City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, Hamilton!

Ohio 45011 REC'D BY OHPO NOV 24 2003 Survey and National Register Manager Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 High Street Commercial Block 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County important to the historic fabric of Downtown Hamilton. As Mayor of the City of Hamilton, I have received over 100 postcards and letters from has worked diligently to find an owner/developer who can renovate the buildings, but his reinvestment efforts. In closing, I would like to urge the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board to James R. Noonan, Vice Mayor Christopher D. Flaig, Councilman Edward Shelton, Councilman George V. McNally, Councilman Katherine A. Becker, Councilman Richard S. Holzberger, Councilman Sincerely, Subject: throughout the application process. Mayor Mr. Stephen Gordon Donald V.

Ryan November 13, 2003 Hamilton residents urging the preservation and renovation of these buildings. The City Register of Historic Places. These buildings have been vacant for several years and are these highly visible buildings is important to Downtown Hamilton and the City's ongoing This letter is written in support of the nomination of the above buildings to the National efforts are dependent upon receipt of historic tax credits. The successful renovation of like to thank you and the Ohio Historic Preservation staff for providing prompt assistance Dear Mr. Gordon: take favorable action on these buildings at their December 5, 2003 meeting.I would also Founded 1791 Donald V. Ryan, Mayor REC'D BY OHPO NOV 2 4 2003 Office of the City Manager City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, 7th Floor Hamilton!

Ohio 45011 Telephone 513 785-7005 FAX 513 785-7010 November 13, 2003 Mr. Stephen Gordon Survey and National Register Manager Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 High Street Commercial Block 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County Dear Mr. Gordon: Register of Historic Places. These buildings have been vacant and under duress for several years and are important to the historic fabric of Downtown Hamilton. these buildings. The City has recently found an owner/developer who can renovate the buildings, but his efforts are dependent upon receipt of historic tax credits. The renovation of these highly visible buildings is important to the continued success of In closing, I would like to urge the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board to throughout the application process. Michael J.

Samoviski Sincerely, Downtown Hamilton. City Manager This letter is written in support of the nomination of the above buildings to the National Subject: like to thank you and the Ohio Historic Preservation staff for providing prompt assistance take favorable action on these buildings at their December 5, 2003 meeting. I would also Founded 1791 Hamilton residents have shown strong support for the preservation and renovation of REC'D BY OHPO NOV 2 4 2003 Office of the City Manager City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, 7th Floor Hamilton! Ohio 45011 Telephone 513 785-7005 FAX 513 785-7010 Founded 1791 November 13, 2003 Mr. Stephen Gordon Survey and National Register Manager Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 High Street Commercial Block 228, 232, and 236 High Street Dear Mr.

Gordon: I am writing in support of the nomination of the above buildings to the National Register of Historic Places. The buildings have been vacant for several years and are rapidly deteriorating due to water penetration. The community, after working diligently to attract an owner/developer interested in renovating the buildings, is now on the verge of success. Historic tax credits will be one of the necessary incentives that must be employed if the The successful renovation of these highly visible buildings in Downtown Hamilton could also act as a catalyst for the renovation of other historically significant structures in the In closing I would like to urge the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board to take favorable action on these buildings at their December 5, 2003 meeting.

I would also like to thank you and the Ohio Historic Preservation staff for providing helpful advice and prompt assistance throughout the application process. Assistant City Manager Subject: buildings are to be placed back into use. City of Hamilton, Butler County immediate vicinity. Printed on Recycled Paper AN20 OFFICES OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL Telephone (513) 785-7040 Fax (513) 785-7051 Web Site http://www.hamilton-city.org City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, Hamilton! Ohio 45011 Founded 1791 November 13, 2003 REC'D BYOHPO NOV 2 4 2003 Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County Dear Mr. Gordon: important to the historic fabric of Downtown Hamilton.

As Mayor of the City of Hamilton, I have received over 100 postcards and letters from reinvestment efforts. In closing, I would like to urge the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board to take favorable action on these buildings at their December 5, 2003 meeting. I would also like to thank you and the Ohio Historic Preservation staff for providing prompt assistance James R. Noonan, Vice Mayor Christopher D. Flaig, Councilman Edward Shelton, Councilman George V. McNally, Councilman Katherine A. Becker, Councilman Richard S. Holzberger, Councilman Mayor Sincerely, Subject: COPY throughout the application process. Hamilton residents urging the preservation and renovation of these buildings.

The City these highly visible buildings is important to Downtown Hamilton and the City's ongoing Survey and National Register Manager has worked diligently to find an owner/developer who can renovate the buildings, but his efforts are dependent upon receipt of historic tax credits.The successful renovation of Mr. Stephen Gordon High Street Commercial Block This letter is written in support of the nomination of the above buildings to the National Register of Historic Places.These buildings have been vacant for several years and are Donald V. Ryan Printed on Recycled Paper Donald V. Ryan, Mayor REC'D BY OHPO NOV 24 2003 Office of the City Manager City of Hamilton! Ohio 345 High Street, 7th Floor Hamilton! Ohio 45011 Telephone 513 785-7005 FAX 513 785-7010 Founded 1791 November 13, 2003 Mr.

Stephen Gordon Survey and National Register Manager Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 High Street Commercial Block 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County Dear Mr. Gordon: This letter is written in support of the nomination of the above buildings to the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings have been vacant and under duress for several years and are important to the historic fabric of Downtown Hamilton. these buildings. The City has recently found an owner/developer who can renovate the buildings, but his efforts are dependent upon receipt of historic tax credits. The In closing, I would like to urge the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board to take favorable action on these buildings at their December 5, 2003 meeting.

I would also like to thank you and the Ohio Historic Preservation staff for providing prompt assistance throughout the application process. Michael J. Samoviski Subject: Downtown Hamilton. COPY renovation of these highly visible buildings is important to the continued success of Hamilton residents have shown strong support for the preservation and renovation of City Manager One Renaissance Center Sincerely, RECD BY OHPO NOV 2 4 2003 Office of the City Manager City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, 7th Floor Hamilton! Ohio 45011 Telephone 513 785-7005 FAX 513 785-7010 Founded 1791 November 13, 2003 Mr.

Stephen Gordon Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County I am writing in support of the nomination of the above buildings to the National Register of Historic Places. The buildings have been vacant for several years and are rapidly deteriorating due to water penetration. The community, after working diligently to attract an owner/developer interested in renovating the buildings, is now on the verge of success. Historic tax credits will be one of the necessary incentives that must be employed if the buildings are to be placed back into use. The successful renovation of these highly visible buildings in Downtown Hamilton could also act as a catalyst for the renovation of other historically significant structures in the immediate vicinity.

In closing I would like to urge the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board to take favorable action on these buildings at their December 5, 2003 meeting. I would also like to thank you and the Ohio Historic Preservation staff for providing helpful advice and Subject: COPY prompt assistance throughout the application process. Assistant City Manager Survey and National Register Manager High Street Commercial Block Dear Mr. Gordon: Neal A. Barille I Printed on Recycled Paper REC'D BY OHPO NOV 2 4 2003 Department of Economic Development City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, Hamilton! Ohio 45011 Telephone 513 785-7070 FAX 513 785-7067 Founded 1791 November 21, 2003 Mr.

Stephen Gordon Survey and National Register Manager Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 High Street Commercial Block 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County Dear Mr. Gordon: On behalf of the City of Hamilton Department of Economic Development, I would like to lend my support for the nomination of the above buildings to the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings represent a cornerstone of historic Downtown Hamilton and a tremendous opportunity for reinvestment in our community. The restoration and redevelopment of these buildings has received strong support from our residents and business community, most notably from our downtown business district.

The City has been working closely with an interested owner/developer who is with the rehabilitation of historic structures, the long-term success of this project is contingent upon the receipt of historic tax credits. The restoration of these buildings supplement the economic rebirth, growth and success should you have any questions or if I may be of further assistance. Timothy E. Bigler Director Sincerely, Subject: www.hamilton-city.org of our downtown area.We appreciate your consideration of this project. Please call, prepared to restore these buildings to their former grandeur. As in most cases dealing REC'D BY OHPO NOV 2 4 2003 Department of Economic Development City of Hamilton! Ohio One Renaissance Center 345 High Street, Hamilton! Ohio 45011 Telephone 513 785-7070 FAX 513 785-7067 Founded 1791 November 21, 2003 Mr.

Stephen Gordon Ohio Historic Preservation Office 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 High Street Commercial Block 228, 232, and 236 High Street City of Hamilton, Butler County Dear Mr. Gordon: On behalf of the City of Hamilton Department of Economic Development, I would like to lend my support for the nomination of the above buildings to the National Register of and a tremendous opportunity for reinvestment in our community. The restoration and redevelopment of these buildings has received strong support from our residents and business community, most notably from our downtown business district. The City has been working closely with an interested owner/developer who is with the rehabilitation of historic structures, the long-term success of this project is contingent upon the receipt of historic tax credits.

The restoration of these buildings supplement the economic rebirth, growth and success Timothy E. Bigler Sincerely, www.hamilton-city.org Director Subject: COPY prepared to restore these buildings to their former grandeur. As in most cases dealing Survey and National Register Manager of our downtown area.We appreciate your consideration of this project.Please call, Historic Places.These buildings represent a cornerstone of historic Downtown Hamilton should you have any questions orif I may be of further assistance. 567 East Hudson Street Columbus, Ohio 43211-1030 614/ 298-2000 Fax: 614/ 298-2037 Visit us at www.ohiohistory.org January 15, 2004 RECEIVED SINCE 1885 JAN 2 O 2004 National Register of Historic Places 1201 Eye Street, NW 8" Floor Washington DC 20005 Enclosed please find one (1) new National Register nomination and additional information for a for this new submission.

If you have questions or comments about these documents, please NEW SUBMISSION High Street Commercial Block SHERIFF'S RESIDENCE, NOBLE COUNTY, OHIO are included in this submission. They were left out of the original transmission of the nomination to your office on January 5, 2004. State Historic Preservation Officer COUNTY enclosures SOCIETY Butler Sincerely, Ohio Historic Preservation Office contact this office. Please note that the black and white photographs for the NOBLE COUNTY JAIL AND Dear Ms. Shull: HISTORICAL National Park Service previously submitted nomination.All appropriate notification procedures have been followed Ms. Carol Shull, Chief of Registration OHIO