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In anticipation of Ohio Historic Preservation Month, State Historic Preservatoin Officer
Dr. William K. Laidlaw, Jr., interviewed Governor Ted Strickland about the importance of historic preservation
to the governor and the State of Ohio.
Question & Answer
SHPO: You decided early on to use the previously ceremonial historic Governor’s office in the Ohio Statehouse
as a working space. Can you tell us more about what factors led to your decision to use the space and how it is
working out?
Governor: I decided to move the Governor’s office to the Statehouse for its proximity and accessibility to the
people of Ohio. The once-ceremonial space is now a working office. We have desks for several staff members and
hold the majority of meetings and events in the Statehouse office.
I’ve found the historical aspects of the Statehouse office to be humbling. For example, my desk is actually the
original desk used in the building. Abraham Lincoln was actually sitting at this desk when he heard that he had
won the Electoral College, and therefore the presidency, in 1861. I thoroughly enjoy the historical aspects of
my Statehouse office – it almost feels like going back in time in some respects. Although it’s wired for
computer and phone lines, the antique furnishings conceal most signs of today’s technology.
SHPO: Tell us about a favorite historic building or site. What makes it special or memorable?
Governor: The Statehouse is a favorite of mine because of its long, rich history and the great efforts that
have been taken to preserve its original characteristics.
SHPO: What prompted your interest in historic preservation?
Governor: I can remember countless times when I’ve driven through towns across Ohio and passed a downtown
building with striking architecture that caught my eye. It’s disheartening to see some of these unique
structures with an empty storefront or dilapidated structure – they have the potential to serve new and
interesting purposes for their communities.
SHPO: In what ways does historic preservation tie in to your work as a public servant?
Governor: I believe that historic buildings and sites enrich a community. Vibrant, restored downtowns attract
more business and people to city centers and increase economic activity and civic engagement. There is no
doubt that this type of activity enhances the quality of life for community members and makes revitalized
areas an attractive place for business growth.
SHPO: How does historic preservation relate to Ohio’s goals for economic development?
Governor: Many historic downtowns are home to small businesses that rely on their locations and local customers
to be profitable. By preserving these areas, we create an environment for businesses to grow and thrive. By
continuing to invest in our downtowns, we can ensure that local companies and stores receive the support they
need to be successful and prevent them from having to go elsewhere for more business.
SHPO: How has historic preservation made a difference in communities in Ohio?
Governor: The benefits from historic preservation have made positive impacts on communities in Ohio by
stimulating the area economy, supporting small businesses and enhancing the quality of life for local
residents.
In fact, Ohio has more than 3,600 listings on the National Register of Historic Places and is consistently
ranked high among states for funds spent on preserving and rehabilitating historic properties.
SHPO: How can historic preservation address some of the problems facing our state or the nation?
Governor: We can reduce the flight of businesses and people from our downtown historic areas by increasing our
preservation efforts. By making infrastructure investments and providing incentives to businesses that will
locate in a historic area, we can increase economic activity and attract more people to city centers.
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