You can tell a lot about the culture of an area via its history. While a trip to the local library or a quick Google search can answer many questions, it seems like driving around and spotting historic structures often raises more questions. Today, we're going to take a deep dive into the history of some of Cleveland's most historic buildings... some of which you may not even realize are on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a look:
1. Zion Lutheran Church & School
Both the Zion Lutheran Church and Zion Lutheran Church School were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. They both officially opened after construction was completed in 1903, though students had been attending classes at the school's auditorium for roughly two years while the rest of the Queen Anne structure was completed. The church's congregation was formed in 1840, and its original place of worship was one of the first American churches to display a Christmas tree. The neighborhood in which the church and school prospered was once a wealthy residential street, but time has transformed the area into a commercial one.
2. Woodland Cemetery
If only we could have seen this cemetery during its heyday! Woodland Cemetery was founded in 1853 and served as Cleveland's primary cemetery almost immediately. Beautiful headstones, mausoleums, and statues popped up around the space, offering a peaceful atmosphere that truly paid homage to the dearly departed. However, its growth stagnated after Lake View Cemetery opened. Sadly, time took its toll on this historic site. Many of its most magnificent structures were demolished between 1915 and 1951, though there's still much to see... and the Woodland Cemetery Foundation is taking steps to restore the outdoor space to this day. You can make a donation or purchase swag to support the endeavor on their website. Imagine what this site might have looked like if not for them and the cemetery's addition to the Register in 1986!
3. Phillis Wheatley Association
Now, this is a mundane building with an amazing story to tell. If only walls could talk! The Phillis Wheatley Association was founded by Jane Edna Harris Hunter, though it was originally called the Working Girls Home Association. Hunter, a forward-thinking woman, dedicated her time to creating a space that protected and invested in single Black women. She knew the struggle, as she experienced it herself when she migrated north in 1905. Her dedication to providing safe, adequate, and affordable housing meant her small organization grew quickly. Though her mission began in 1911, this building was completed in 1927 after its mission was well-received. Today, the Phillis Wheatley Association continues to act as an important civic resource.
4. Warszawa Neighborhood District
Pictured here is The Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus, one of the most amazing landmarks in the Warszawa Neighborhood District. Now known colloquially as Slavic Village, this little neighborhood is filled to the brim with interesting places. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, over 100 years after Polish immigrants began settling the area. Today, it's still rich in culture... from the restaurants to the fascinating architecture that dots the neighborhood. St. Stanislaus Church is one of the area's most amazing features, as it was completed in the 1890s and boasts all sorts of Old World charm.
5. Wade Memorial Chapel
Located in the aforementioned Lake View Cemetery, Wade Memorial Chapel is a landmark like no other. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, but locals had been admiring it since its construction in 1901. Its interior is decorated with Tiffany glass, and the murals within tell the story of a soul's journey through life and death. It was built to commemorate Jeptha Wade, a wealthy Cleveland industrialist and philanthropist that donated the land in and around Wade Park today.
6. Hannes Tiedemann House
If the Hannes Tiedemann House looks familiar, then you just might be familiar with the tales of Franklin Castle. While its purportedly haunted status has been largely proven false, the castle still has its place in local lore. And of course it does! It looks like an old European castle... it's bound to gather a bit of interest. It was added to the National Register in 1982, but its story began over a century earlier. Construction was completed between 1881 and 1883, but Tiedemann only lived there until 1896. Following his residency, the castle served many purposes. It was, at one time, a German cultural center. Rumors of a speakeasy persist, although this is true of many Cleveland landmarks and is a challenge to verify. What we can verify, however, is that tales of its purported hauntings arose in the 1970s and have persisted ever since.
These fascinating destinations are some of Cleveland's most historic buildings. Have you visited any of these local landmarks? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
