DARKE COUNTY – Heritage Ohio hosted its annual awards ceremony on October 15th in the stunning Canton Palace Theater, in conjunction with their annual conference. The awards honor Ohio’s best projects, places, and people who create lasting impacts through historic preservation and community revitalization.
Winners were selected by an independent jury. The recipient of this year’s ‘Best Commercial Rehabilitation’ was Bear’s Mill.
Bear’s Mill in Darke County, one of Ohio’s last operating water-powered mills, faced serious structural deterioration that threatened its future. After the Friends of Bear’s Mill initiated planning efforts, the site was entrusted to the Darke County Park District in 2020, allowing critical stabilization work to move forward.
The project also created a rare opportunity to refurbish the Mill’s original 1800s turbines, securing their continued operation. These efforts ensure that Bear’s Mill will remain a working landmark— educating, inspiring, and connecting visitors to Ohio’s heritage for generations to come.
Heritage Ohio prompts economic growth through the preservation and revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods across Ohio. Heritage Ohio is the designated statewide Ohio preservation partner with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Through saving the places that matter, we can all build a community and live better.
Learn more about how to get involved by visiting www.heritageohio.org
