Heritage Ohio hosted their 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 the 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.
