Main Street Wadsworth has received a $5,000 grant from America 250-Ohio Commission for an upcoming project. Main Street will use the funds to put plaques on the 49 buildings that established and impacted the unmatched national historic district in downtown Wadsworth. With the City founded in 1814, Main Street Wadsworth, The Wadsworth Area Historical Society, and the City of Wadsworth are looking to educate the community and visitors about the history of these contributing buildings.
This project is one of just 57 chosen statewide in the final round of community grants from the America 250-Ohio Commission. These grants support local storytelling and education efforts leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
Wadsworth’s downtown historic district was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places—a major honor that officially recognizes the area’s cultural and historical significance. With roots dating back to 1814, the city has a unique story to tell. That’s exactly what Main Street Wadsworth, in partnership with the Wadsworth Area Historical Society and the City of Wadsworth, plans to do: highlight the legacy of the 49 historic buildings that helped shape our downtown and our community.
“We’re truly honored to receive this grant,” said Megan Harvey, Executive Director of Main Street Wadsworth. “It’s not just a financial boost—it’s a meaningful endorsement of our mission to preserve and celebrate Wadsworth’s place in American history.”
The focus of these grants is to help communities like Wadsworth develop projects that celebrate local history and engage the next generation of citizens through storytelling and education.
Doug Preisse, co-chair of the America 250-Ohio Commission, shared his congratulations: “We’re thrilled to support Main Street Wadsworth in this important work. These grants help bring local history to life and remind us all of Ohio’s important role in our nation’s founding.”
