The City of Bellefontaine is the pictured on the cover and is the featured article in the Ohio Municipal League’s publication, Cities & Villages, for the First Quarter 2023.
“I’m thrilled that our city continues to attract interest from around the state,” Mayor Ben Stahler said. “This article focuses on our rich history and the efforts and investments made within Bellefontaine historic downtown district. There certainly is much to celebrate.”
The cover photo features the Logan County Courthouse and details the history of the structure, which was built in 1870, primarily out of mined sandstone, at a cost of $105,389. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The courthouse’s distinctive clock-tower was damaged in the severe windstorm in 2012 and was removed for safety reasons. At the same time, it was discovered that the roof of the courthouse was damaged and failing. So the building’s offices and courtrooms were evacuated and relocated throughout the downtown area.
Over a six-year period, the courthouse was restored at a cost of $12.5 million.
The feature story provides an overview of several downtown Bellefontaine landmarks and also new business developments and historic building revitalizations, including Rainbow Row along south Chillicothe Avenue. The publication noted that 70 percent of downtown business owners are under 40 years old, and 75 percent of the new businesses are owned by women.
Bellefontaine’s Opera Block is also detailed, as the massive building just south of the courthouse containing 13 storefronts. Built in 1880, the property was condemned when purchased by Small Nation in 2021, and restoration work began immediately.
Court Avenue is recognized is the story as well, paying homage to the city’s honors as the first concrete street in America. In 1891, George Bartholomew was able to convince Bellefontaine City Council to try paving Court Avenue with what was then called “artificial stone.” The street stood the test of time, and a portion of what he constructed still stands today, more than 130 years later.
The Bellefontaine Municipal Airport is also featured in the article. The facility, managed by Midwest Corporate Air, handles 30 to 50 flights daily and includes a 5,000 foot runway. Pilots have traveled to the airport from 34 states for check rides.
Many former Midwest Corporate Air students are now employed with the FAA, military and civilian flying operations.