photo courtesy of Janet Hill The Area:
Main Street and surrounding areas in Over-the-Rhine continue to display their original dense, urban development patterns and buildings of excellent architectural quality, imbuing the neighborhood with a “Sense of time and place.” Rows of three-to five-story brick buildings constructed along the sidewalk characterize the streetscape, with many having storefronts on the first floor and residential space on the upper floors. These remarkable nineteenth-century buildings set the stage for life, work and play in the community, creating an historical environment that is uniquely "Over-the-Rhine." Increasing numbers of residents and visitors to Cincinnati are rediscovering the charms of Over-the-Rhine, and Main Street, with its collection of shops and restaurants, is rapidly becoming a regional entertainment district. |
The History:
The distinct sense of place now associated with Over-the-Rhine developed largely between 1860 and 1900. Most of the buildings in the area date from this period and still reflect everyday life in the community during the late nineteenth century. During this period, the German influence reached its peak. Institutions that embodied the German spirit and character helped to shape the community, both physically and culturally. |
