What lurks behind those walls?
A secret skylit atrium with balconies. A former mill building. A traditional lodge hall with a cavernous meeting room lined with detailed trimwork, carved plaster eagles, and a stage. A former mortuary building with interior spaces sure to tempt the ghost hunter.
Find out during a unique type of tour, one which showcases properties with powerful preservation development potential while providing outstanding urban exploration and photography opportunities.
On Saturday, May 5, the second installment of a singular statewide experience is taking place along the streets of downtown Mansfield. Known as the “Forbidden City Tour,” the event will showcase the interior of several properties which are have not been seen by the public in many years — and in some cases, several decades.
The Forbidden City Tour is co-sponsored by Preservation Ohio and Downtown Mansfield, Inc.. The first such tour took place in Springfield in 2010, and drew visitors from across the state.
The tour will take place on Saturday, May 5 from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.. Preservationists, urban photographers or just plain curious, this tour is for you! Tickets are $20 per person, and may be purchased in advance online through a link at the following information page: http://www.facebook.com/events/281881215233393/, or at the day of the event at Engwiller Properties, located at 4 West Fourth Street.
Guests should plan to begin their self guided tour at the Engwiller Properties Building, where maps and information about each location will be available.
Buildings include:
- City Mills building, 160 North Main Street
- Eagles Building, 133 North Main Street
- City News building, 98 North Main Street
- City Grille building, 37 East Fourth Street
- Charles Schroer Mortuary Building, 131 North Diamond Street
Participants are advised to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. The spaces are safe and free of debris, but require walking and are currently undeveloped. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions about the spaces and flashlights will be shared when appropriate.
For additional information, please contact 419-522-0099 or: info@downtownmansfield.com.
