Mehrum-Lindley Block
Hamilton, Butler County

on list since 2007

According to the website of Citizens for Historic and Preservation Services (CHAPS), Butler County's preservation advocacy and education organization, CHAPS continues to monitor the situation concerning the important grouping of buildings known collectively as the "Mehrum-Lindley Block..  And its not hard to see why -- the building sits in a precarious position, immediately adjacent to a vacant corner lot and behind decades-old unattractive metal cladding.

Last year, we described the Mehrum-Lindley Block in the following manner:

"The Mehrum & Lindley Block, also known locally as the “Hamilton Center, ” is actually two buildings that were long-ago joined to form a single complex.  The facade of the Mehrum Building (which exists behind the 1970s-era metal louvered front) survives from a 1906 fire which destroyed the remainder of the building; the Lindley building was added between 1906-1913.  Although this was the showcase block of late 19th and early 20th century downtown Hamilton, these buildings are part of the remaining half-block.  The modern facade dates from the building’s role as the Hamilton Center, a now-defunct office, retail and convention complex; a significant adjacent building was demolished recently.

The Mehrum and Lindley Block is threatened by possible mid-rise development which might entail the complete demolition of these landmark structures.  Although that development has been delayed, there is concern that the present owner may be deferring maintenance and that the buildings might be lost.

These buildings set at the epicenter of concern in Hamilton over maintaining the character of downtown.  And, as community after community has demonstrated, maintaining character is absolutely essential for effective downtown revitalization to occur.  Urban renewal, combined with subsequent allowed demolition of buildings such as the Beckett Block, have resulted in the almost complete removal of character on the north side of High Street.

In the words of the property’s nominator, “The urban and historic characteristics of Hamilton are at stake, and the Mehrum Building is at the heart of that threat.”"

Interestingly, the Hamilton Center buildings are currently available for the sum of $875,000, according to the website of the Butler County Alliance, the county's economic development arm (see link below). 

Preservation Ohio has a long and happy connection to downtown Hamilton as former owners of the Anthony Wayne Hotel, and we strongly support the efforts of local citizens to safeguard downtown's key historic resources.

Additional Photos: (click on each for larger photo)

Aerial view of Mehrum-Lindley Block (behind cladding)
Metal Cladding on Facade
Period view

Links for Additional Information:

Citizens for Historic and Preservation Services (CHAPS)
Hamilton Center sales page - Butler County Alliance

Photos:  Ariel view - Windows Live Local; Others - Courtesy of Nathaniel Kaelin