My name is Aaron Uhl, and I am a senior social studies education major at the University of Akron. I am reaching out today regarding the fate of the Akron Beacon Journal building in downtown Akron, Ohio. After researching the recent news surrounding the building possibly being razed for a parking lot, I needed to state my case for other Akronites to save this historic building.

First, I’d like to share a bit about myself. Not only am I going to be a social studies teacher, but I am a tour guide at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron. Stan Hywet is a case study of what can happen when the community comes together to save such a historic building. It has paid dividends to community involvement since its inception in 1957. In the mid-1950s, there were talks about demolishing that building as well, and the craftsmanship and history would be gone with it. As the sixth largest tourable home in America, the building is now a place for special events and weddings beyond a historical museum.

I recently had a conversation with Local Historian Dr. Caesar Carrino, a retired professor at the University of Akron and former board member of Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. Even at 92, he is pained by much of the lost local history and lamented how physical history is what we use to teach future generations. The ABJ building is no exception to this concept. Beyond its local history, it is a phenomenal example of the Art Deco architectural style, clad with beautiful decoration of stone and ironwork from a bygone era. Unfortunately, Akron has lost so much to the wrecking ball over the years, with the demolition of the last two houses downtown just a few weeks ago and Werner Castle a few years ago. This building being demolished will hurt Akronites for years to come. We must think of the social, historical, and economic impact that this building has had in Akron over the years.

As you may know, the Akron Beacon Journal building is a historic building for the history of Akron and its rich history of community journalism. Starting with the Akron-Times Press in 1929, the Akron Beacon Journal’s purchasing of the company and the building in 1938 solidified its place in local history. Just recently, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Buildings. Reaching that status alone is an arduous task and one that should be considered when discussing the future of this building.

While I understand that the building is a business venture and must be of a profitable status, it is imperative that we keep, at the very least, the 1929 portion of the building intact. There is a possibility of razing this building, except for the tower, for extended parking for the surrounding apartment buildings. This would be disastrous for the community, as just keeping the tower would both keep the history inaccessible and allow a sad reminder to the community of what was once there. Downtown Akron, much like other cities, is making a comeback. Historical buildings often are the foundation of these revitalizations, and Akron has seen its own. 

Akron still feels the losses it has had with historical buildings over the years and has had an impact through lost history, architectural charm, and financial opportunity. I am currently working with other community partners to try and find ways to make this a winning situation for all involved. At the end of the day, it is Akronites that will need this win, and they will need your help.

Here is how you can help.

1. Sign this petition (if you are here, you probably already have)
2. Share this petition with as many people as you can (social media is our friend)
3. If you are an Akron resident, contact your councilperson and advocate for our cause.
4. Contact the current owner and his group (Michael Mouron and the Capstone group).

Website : https://capdevpartners.com/team/michael-mouron/ 

Email:  info@capdevpartners.com

Thank you. Together, we can save this building!