In 2019, Bowling Green formed its Historic Preservation Commission with a clear mission: to preserve history, educate the public, and foster pride in the city’s unique identity. After becoming a Certified Local Government in 2021, the Commission saw an opportunity to bring those goals to life through interpretive signage downtown.
Why did they do it? Because Bowling Green’s story is extraordinary, yet often untold. Once known as “Crystal City” and later a booming oil town, its architecture, schools, churches, and civic buildings all reflect the rise of a community built in the heart of Ohio’s Black Swamp. But without visible reminders, much of that history risked being forgotten.
The Commission secured an $18,000 CLG grant, leveraged city support, and engaged volunteers, local historians, and partners at the Wood County Museum, BGSU, and the public library. Together they researched, designed, and installed 16 interpretive signs telling the story of downtown buildings, vanished landmarks, and the people who shaped Bowling Green.