The Lake Township Historical Society (LTHS) has already been very busy this spring beginning the use and renovation of its new building at 139 E. Maple St. in Hartville, just east of the new Gateway project and east of the railroad tracks. The building has a front section covering 1,800 square feet and a rear section, previously used as a machine shop, of more than 3,100 square feet. It sits on 0.42 acres.
The restoration project follows the society’s landmark acquisition of the building earlier this year. Thanks to a generous donation from a community member and additional support from local residents and businesses, the historic property was purchased to serve as a permanent home for the organization and its growing collections.
Over its long history, the building has served the community in a variety of roles, including as a church, automobile dealership, cabinet shop and office space. Once renovations are complete, it will become a center for local history featuring expanded exhibit areas, a gift shop, community event space, library and research facilities, offices, and significantly increased collections storage.
First, there is the story of the move of LTHS property from its storage location at the Hartville Thrift Shoppe in Hartville. For many years, important historical materials were safely stored thanks to the generosity and cooperation of the team at GentleBrook and, subsequently, the Thrift Shoppe after it purchased the property. Their willingness to provide space and assistance ensured that irreplaceable pieces of Lake Township’s history were protected until the society was ready for this next chapter. LTHS is deeply grateful for GentleBrook’s and the Thrift Shoppe’s patience, kindness and ongoing encouragement…