A Stroll Alongside Ashland’s Historic Structures

A Stroll Alongside Ashland’s Historic Structures

Gideon Thompson

The Ashland Beacon

As you pass through downtown Ashland, you may notice beautiful homes and buildings standing proudly among elaborate gardens and decorative fence lines. Colonial-era homes, Gothic Revival architecture, Victorian houses, and historic Brick Row buildings line the sunlit streets that define our community. These remarkable structures often leave visitors wondering where they came from and what role they played in shaping the neighborhoods we know today.

Dating back to the 1800s, many of the homes and businesses we frequent stand as lasting testaments to those who came before us. Built to withstand the elements while supporting generations of growth and progress, each structure holds a unique story that continues to enrich our community.

Surrounding the sprawling perimeter of Central Park and lining nearby streets are several homes known for their historic significance and connections to families who played major roles in the development of our city. One of the first homes known to have been built in Ashland is the Poage Family Home, located in Central Park near the scenic reflecting pond close to King’s Daughters Medical Center. Originally situated at 621 12th Street, the home was moved to its current location in Central Park, protecting it from traffic and roadway deterioration. Today, its placement offers visitors an opportunity to connect with the founding members of our community while enjoying a nostalgic and picturesque setting.

Ashland’s story begins in 1786 when the Poage family arrived along the Ohio River and established what became known as Poage’s Landing. The landing stretched from the present-day Ashland Riverfront along Winchester Avenue between 13th and 18th Streets. As the iron industry expanded through the Ohio Valley, moving through Portsmouth and Ironton, it eventually crossed into Kentucky. This growth fueled community development and helped shape the city of Ashland.

The Kentucky Iron, Coal, and Manufacturing Company later purchased the surrounding land, including the Poage’s Landing area, with the intention of creating an industrial hub that would play a major role in the region’s economic development. The purchase that helped establish Ashland was signed in 1854, launching the city into an industrialized future that remains steeped in rich history, artistic heritage, and a tradition of hard work and dedication.

For those eager to experience this history firsthand, Visit AKY has created the Historic Walking Tour, which guides visitors along downtown sidewalks and roadways while highlighting Ashland’s historic treasures. Beginning near the Poage Home in Central Park, the tour crosses Lexington Avenue and arrives at its first stop, 2016 Lexington Avenue. There, visitors will encounter a well-preserved colonial brick home built in 1905 by John Smith for the Glockner family, whose contributions played an important role in the development of local automobile and transportation enterprises.

From 2016 Lexington Avenue, the tour continues along Lexington, Hilton, and Chestnut Streets before returning to Bath Avenue. Along the way, walkers will discover an impressive collection of Victorian and Gothic Revival homes that have been carefully maintained, allowing future generations to appreciate their beauty while uncovering clues to Ashland’s fascinating past.

Continuing toward Winchester Avenue and the original site of Poage’s Landing, the tour enters the industrial heart of the city. Here, visitors can explore historic buildings such as the Parsons Building, home to the Highlands Museum and several thriving local businesses. At 1401 Winchester Avenue stands a building erected in 1890 as the Merchant National Bank. It later housed Steele and Lawrence Pharmacy and, in 1987, McMeans Pharmacy. The building remains remarkably well preserved and continues to display its vibrant character and historic charm.

Along the route, visitors will also encounter the Paramount Arts Center and Calvary Episcopal Church, located across from one another on Winchester Avenue. These landmarks mark the entrance to the Ashland Arts District and showcase the city's newly renovated streetscape.

Having completed the Historic Walking Tour, I found each stop to be both engaging and educational. The stories shared throughout the tour bring to life the dedication, purpose, and significance behind each location. Homes, businesses, churches, and even native burial mounds help paint a vivid picture of the thriving community that helped shape Ashland into the city it is today.

After discovering the tour on the Visit AKY website, I found an enjoyable and educational outing available free of charge. The directions were easy to follow and guided me throughout the journey. The walk took approximately one hour, including stops, and offered plenty of shade beneath the trees surrounding Central Park.

Anyone interested in exploring the city while learning fascinating facts about the area can also find brochures at the Ashland Visitors Center, located at 1509 Winchester Avenue. While the walk is enjoyable, participants should remain aware of roadway hazards such as traffic, pedestrians, wildlife, and changing weather conditions. Bringing a beverage, snacks, and a camera can help make the experience even more enjoyable. Walking with a group is always recommended, and staying aware of your surroundings is encouraged.

Step into Ashland’s past, discover the stories hidden within its historic streets, and experience the city from a whole new perspective with Visit AKY’s Historic Walking Tour.