The Paul Laurence Dunbar House, a historic landmark in Dayton, Ohio, has undergone a significant restoration project, and it's a testament to the power of preservation. This $700,000 endeavor, which has been awarded the Excellence in Preservation Award by Preservation Dayton Inc., has breathed new life into the home of one of America's greatest poets. But what makes this restoration truly remarkable is the personal connection it carries for the Ohio History Connection and the broader community.
The house, where Dunbar lived with his mother from 1904 until his death in 1906, has been a cherished site for the Ohio History Connection since 1936. Megan Wood, Executive Director and CEO of the organization, emphasizes the importance of preserving Dunbar's legacy. She states, 'Paul Laurence Dunbar was one of America’s greatest poets and spent almost his entire life in Ohio. Since 1936, the Ohio History Connection has cared for the home, and we hope this project helps us continue to share Dunbar’s legacy as a writer and powerful voice advocating equality for African Americans.'
The restoration project was a collaborative effort, with the National Aviation Heritage Alliance managing the project and the Ohio History Connection overseeing construction. The financial burden was shared, with $350,000 coming from the federal Save America’s Treasures grant program, directed by then-U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, and the remaining amount covered by matching funds from the Ohio History Connection.
The work involved crucial drainage and ground grading to prevent water damage, masonry repairs, and foundation stabilization. These measures ensure the house's longevity and protect its exterior features. The result is a home that not only looks restored but is also structurally sound and ready to withstand the test of time.
The Paul Laurence Dunbar House is now open to the public as a national park, inviting visitors to step into the world of one of America's most influential poets. This restoration project is a reminder of the importance of preserving historical sites, not just for their architectural value but also for the stories and legacies they hold. It's a call to action for all of us to cherish and protect our cultural heritage, ensuring that the voices of the past continue to resonate in the present and the future.
