Good morning, Hocking County. Behind the walls of a 150-year-old New Straitsville building lies a treasure trove of local history—from coal miners' meetings to town governance. This historic structure, which once served as everything from a firehouse to a jail, narrowly escaped the wrecking ball thanks to preservation efforts. Now with bids starting at $10,000, someone with vision and resources could own this piece of living history, provided they're ready to tackle the necessary renovations within two years.
Meanwhile, the future of our region is taking shape as ground breaks on a $16.4 million workforce center in New Lexington. The Appalachian Community Innovations-funded facility will soon house health clinics and specialized classrooms, building upon current programs in construction trades and phlebotomy. In more somber news, Fairfield County officials are seeking relatives of Daniel Sifford, who passed away last month, to help with final arrangements.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🕊️ Coroner's office seeks family of Daniel Sifford after his death. The 60-year-old Fairfield County resident passed away on May 28, 2025, according to Lancaster authorities. Officials believe he may be the son of Raymond Sifford, who died in the same county in 2012. The coroner's office has issued an urgent appeal for anyone with information about Mr. Sifford's relatives to contact them via email or phone. This information is crucial for properly handling final arrangements.
🏗️ A $16.4 million workforce center breaks ground in New Lexington. The groundbreaking ceremony on May 23, 2025, marked the beginning of a transformative project funded by the Appalachian Community Innovations Centers Program. New Lexington School Superintendent Casey Coffey emphasized the school's commitment to "kids, community, and relationships" during the event. The new facility will house health clinics, specialized classrooms, and multi-purpose areas, expanding on the current center that already offers classes in construction trades and phlebotomy. With construction beginning in June, school officials believe the completed center will serve as a model for similar projects across the nation.
🏛️ Historic 150-year-old building escapes demolition, heads to auction instead. The New Straitsville structure, which once served as a firehouse, town hall, jail, and meeting place for coal miners, was saved from destruction by a local preservation group. Now, the village is accepting bids starting at $10,000 for the historic property. Any new owner must make significant improvements within 24 months due to structural issues, or ownership will revert to the village. Mayor John Roberts stated there's currently no set deadline for bid submissions.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Rustic retreat near Hocking Hills: Priced at $319,900, this updated 3-bed, 1.5-bath Hocking Hills home sits on 1.5 acres with an open kitchen featuring Hickory cabinets, plus a finished detached garage perfect for projects near popular parks.
Secluded haven with modern updates: Nestled on 1.5 acres at the end of a dead-end road, this $365,000 home offers 3-4 bedrooms, a remodeled bathroom, fresh paint, new flooring, and updated HVAC systems, all just minutes from schools and shopping.
Luxurious woodland lakefront log paradise: For $985,000, this custom Jubach Log Home on a wooded lakefront offers four bedrooms, outdoor entertaining spaces, and resort-style amenities including golf, swimming, and access to four lakes for various water activities.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
-Psalm 55:22
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