Klaus Block facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Klaus Block
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Front and side of the Klaus Block
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 Location in Ohio
Location in the United States
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| Location | 401-405 N. Main St., Lima, Ohio |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1870 |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| MPS | Lima MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 82001864 |
| Added to NRHP | October 7, 1982 |
The Klaus Block is a cool old building in downtown Lima, Ohio. It was built way back in 1870. This three-story building has a unique style. It mixes Victorian designs with Gothic Revival features. Imagine a castle-like look but for a regular building! It has a simple rectangular shape. The outside is decorated with fancy brickwork and stone details.
Contents
Discovering the Klaus Block
What Does It Look Like?
The Klaus Block stands tall with three stories. It has a simple rectangular shape. Each side has three sections, called bays. The top of the building has a hip roof. This type of roof slopes inward on all sides. The roof is covered with asphalt.
The building's outside has special decorations. You can see brick patterns called corbelling. There are also stone trims. These details make the building look very interesting. They show off its unique style.
A Building with Many Lives
Through the years, many different businesses have called the Klaus Block home. When it was first built, the person who built it ran a butcher shop there. Later, during a time called Prohibition, a secret club operated on the top floor. This was when selling alcohol was against the law.
A pharmacy has always been in the front corner of the building. It has been there for a very long time. This shows how important the building has been to the community.
Lima's Growth and the Klaus Block
How the City Expanded
In the 1870s, the city of Lima started to grow. The railroad industry became very important. It helped Lima expand to the north. This meant the downtown area also grew northward.
The Klaus Block was one of many big buildings built then. Another important building from that time is the Allen County Courthouse. It is also located north of the old downtown. These buildings helped shape the city we see today.
A Historic Landmark
Why Is It Special?
In 1982, the Klaus Block became a special landmark. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes buildings that are important to history. The Klaus Block was recognized for its amazing architecture.
It was one of seventeen buildings in Lima added to this list at the same time. These buildings were part of a bigger group. Being on this list helps protect the building. It makes sure its history is remembered.
