May is Historic Preservation Month. This year’s theme from the National Trust for Historic Preservation is All People are Created Equal. The theme is based on the United States making the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. East Liverpool hasn’t been in existence since 1776, but we’re not too far behind with frontiersmen settling here in 1798. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the importance of protecting the architectural and cultural treasures that define our community. Over the past decade, I have been told countless times that East Liverpool is blessed to have so many great examples of historic architecture. This sentiment came from urban planners, real estate and economic development professionals, even people passing through. Preservation is more than honoring the past though; it’s a powerful engine for economic growth and community revitalization.

Known as the “Pottery Capital of the World,” East Liverpool has a rich industrial history etched into its buildings, homes, and streets. By preserving historic landmarks like the Carnegie Library, so many churches, and many 19th-century commercial buildings such as the Museum of Ceramics (once a post office), the New Castle School of Trades and True North buildings (former department stores), The Vault (a bank), the Upper Ohio Valley Museum and Hall of Fame (another bank), Masonic Temple (a private residence), Kent State and the YMCA (high school buildings), to name a few, we attract tourism, support local businesses, and foster community pride. These assets set us apart, offering authentic experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere. We’re looking forward to the completion of the Thompson Building restoration/renovation later this year.

Historic preservation also creates jobs. Whether its skilled labor restoring facades, small businesses opening in refurbished spaces, or contractors working on adaptive reuse projects, preservation fuels our local economy. Studies show that dollar-for-dollar, rehabilitation projects create more jobs than new construction and they often revitalize entire neighborhoods in the process.

Preservation encourages investment. When historic buildings are restored and reused, they increase surrounding property values and stimulate further development. According to the National Park Service “Preservation enhances real estate values and fosters local businesses, keeping historic main streets and downtowns economically viable.”

As we celebrate Historic Preservation Month, let’s recognize the economic and cultural value of East Liverpool’s heritage. Thank you to all those who have invested in saving an old building (maybe your own house) and thank you for those of you who will follow in those footsteps. Preserving our past isn’t about looking back, it’s about building a stronger, more resilient future.

John T. Mercer

East Liverpool