Old Fort Steuben Project Inc

Steubenville, Ohio is a "rust belt" city: one of those urban areas that had boomed with the steel mills and then lost population and economic strength as the mills closed. In 1986, far-sighted citizens saw an opportunity to bring pride and tourism to the area by reconstructing Fort Steuben - an 18th century frontier fort - on its original site overlooking the Ohio River. Forming this member supported non-profit, they succeeded not only in rebuilding the fort but they also developed a park, visitor center and amphitheater, converting a blighted city block into a venue for history, education and culture. Now the organization also maintains the First Federal Land Office (an 1800 structure on the National Register) and the Murals of Steubenville (23 larger-than-life depictions of the city's history). The Old Fort Steuben Project's efforts have inspired others in the city to save historical structures and offer high quality educational and cultural programs. The newest effort initiated by the organization is a magical holiday attraction in the downtown: Steubenville Nutcracker Village and Advent Market in Fort Steuben Park and Visitor Center. In its first season, the Nutcracker project has brought over 4000 people into the downtown, inspiring pride and encouragement in the citizens and wonder in the visitors. As one attendee said, “This is a sign of hope for our town.”