Preservation Merit

The Canal Winchester Bank: A Community Landmark for Over 150 Years

Established in 1866, the Canal Winchester Bank has been a cornerstone of its community for more than 150 years. Built with locally sourced materials, the structure showcases the architectural style of the 19th century. Over the decades, the building has been updated to meet changing needs. In 1955, a lower-level fellowship hall was added. In 1966, coinciding with the National Historic Preservation Act, the building underwent significant renovations. Despite these updates, its historical character was carefully preserved, leading to its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

Preservation is an ongoing effort. When the sanctuary ceiling collapsed in June 2021, the community united to restore the building. Members organized bake sales, auctions, a GoFundMe campaign, and a benefit concert to raise funds. With the help of preservation experts, the restoration was completed, and the congregation celebrated the project’s success with a Sanctuary Dedication in January 2022.

Today, the Canal Winchester Bank remains a cherished landmark. It symbolizes the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage and honoring the building’s historical and cultural significance.