Chillicothe – Historic Canal Warehouse
Northeast Corner of Main and Mulberry StreetsChillicothe, OH 45601
Chillicothe – Historic Canal Warehouse
In private ownership and proposed for a multiple-use renovation, this original 1831 canal warehouse is a rare survivor of Ohio’s canal era. The canal ran along the east side of the building, where doors on all three floors enabled receipt and shipment of all kinds of goods.
In private ownership and proposed for a multiple-use renovation, this original 1831 canal warehouse is a rare survivor of Ohio’s canal era. The canal ran along the east side of the building, where doors on all three floors enabled receipt and shipment of all kinds of goods.
Original canal-related buildings are quite rare, and the 1831 warehouse at Main & Mulberry streets in Chillicothe must surely be one of the largest of the few remaining; two others just to the north were demolished in the 1970s. With 10,000 square feet on each of its three floors, the warehouse could handle goods of all kinds. Its purpose was not long-term storage. Both incoming and outgoing cargo needed short-term space out of the weather while waiting for shipment or pickup. To reach the upper floors required use of block and tackle hung from beams over each third floor doorway. The canal ran along the building’s east side; on the west side, wagons and drays could pull up on Mulberry Street for loading or unloading. Interior changes include added walls and a stairway, but even so, the warehouse’s massive timber structure is fully visible.
Notes for Travelers
Chillicothe, Ohio’s first State Capital, is one of Ohio’s most historic cities. The historic downtown area is filled with outstanding 19th and early 20th century architecture, including commercial buildings, civic buildings, and residential streets. Yoctangee Park is located along Water Street and has facilities for picnics, trails, and the Pump House Cultural Center.
For additional ideas for what to do and see while visiting, check the Visit Chillicothe website.
http://visitchillicotheohio.com/
The Ross County Historical Society operates multiple historic sites, including a museum and library at its Heritage Center, Knolls Log House and Franklin House. Check the website for details about hours and upcoming events.
https://rosscountyhistorical.org/
Credits
Jeff Darbee, Nancy Recchie, David MeyerAdditional Resources
Meyer, David. Life Along the Ohio Canal – Licking Reservoir to Lockbourne and Columbus FeederMeyer, David. Life Along the Ohio Canal in the Scioto River Valley
The Society of Architectural Historians included the Chillicothe Historic District in its list of 100 architectural gems in Ohio. https://sah-archipedia.org/buildings/OH-01-141-0022