MOUNT VERNON – More than 100 people were on hand for the ribbon cutting and dedication of the Ariel-Foundation Park William Stroud Welcome Center at noon today. Mayor Dick Mavis introduced Karen Buchwald Wright who cut the ribbon to the building on South Main Street, site of what was for years the Station Break senior citizens center. The building has undergone a complete transformation from the old train depot which was last used for that purpose in the 1970’s.
Michael Percy, project manager, says he is glad the city can start utilizing the building and is eager for residents of to see what’s been done inside. Percey says the welcome center will be open daily for users of the bike trail and the park and no reservations will be necessary to use the space.
The depot was built in 1905 and has seen many presidents and political campaign speeches including those by President William McKinley when he was governor of Ohio. The last passenger train from Cleveland to Columbus that came through Mount Vernon was on December 15, 1950. Freight service continued until the line was abandoned in the 1970’s.
Percy recognized contributors to the depot renovation project including Karen Buchwald Wright, Ariel Foundation, Herb Rock, Mark & Dennise Ramser, First-Knox National Bank, Brenneman Lumber, The Community Foundation of Mount Vernon and Knox County, Custom Cutters, The Rotary Club of Mount Vernon, the Leadership Knox Classes of 2013 and 2014, Burt & Lois Hanson and Percy.
Vickie Sant, left, of First Knox National Bank unveils a plaque of William Stroud with Kimbol Stroud KnoxPages.com photo
William Stroud’s son, Kimbol Stroud, was on hand for the unveiling of a plaque bearing his father’s likeness.
