Five long years of effort came to fruition on May 15th as the Walnut Hills Presbyterian Church Tower was formerly dedicated. Mayor Mark Mallory, Walnut Hills Redevelopment Foundation Executive Director W. James King, and CPA trustees Paul Muller, Charles E. Schroer and Margaret K. Valentine cut a ribbon to dedicate the historically significant neighborhood landmark at Gilbert Avenue and William Howard Taft Road.

Standing nearly ten stories tall, the Walnut Hills Presbyterian Church Tower is the last standing remains of the Walnut Hills Presbyterian Church, built in 1885 and razed in 2003. Designed by renowned architect Samuel Hannaford, the church had a rich legacy as an integral link with the anti-slavery Abolitionist movement in America. The Tower bears witness to a courageous stand for racial justice that helped form the nation’s views on slavery.

Cincinnati Preservation Association Executive Director Kendall Fisher expressed gratitude for the dozens of donors and in-kind supporters who came together to fund the over $500,000 Tower restoration. Special recognition was given to the City of Cincinnati, Robert Lindner, Paul Muller, Michael and Margaret Valentine and Walnut Hills Redevelopment Foundation. In the words of Ms. Fisher, “This is truly a sacred space, and so many people in Cincinnati understand the connection of our architectural heritage to our future as a vibrant and growing City.”

The Tower will now serve as a gateway to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Cultural Heritage District. The completion of this important restoration project provides a powerful endorsement and visible reminder of Walnut Hills’ nationally significant commitment to diversity, equality and community.

Date posted: June 26, 2008