BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Today, when you walk into First Federal Community Bank at 119 South Sandusky Avenue, you’re stepping into a building that has been a cornerstone of Bucyrus for over a century. But long before it became a financial institution, it played many other roles in our community.


The Bakery Years (1880s to 1917)
In the 1880s, the site was home to a restaurant and bakery, according to Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps. By 1887, J.G. Miller & Son operated the “Star Bakery.” In 1899, the business transferred to J.D. Goetz. A few years later, Chris Miller took over the bakery, and in 1917 he sold it to Sheridan and Geneva Osborne of Sycamore. The Osbornes were seasoned bakers who supplied Bucyrus with hearth bread, cakes, and crackers.


Upstairs Professionals
The second floor often served as quiet workspace for Bucyrus professionals. In 1911, chiropractor N.A. Lutz operated out of a small rear structure listed as 119½. In 1916, optometrist Dr. J. Frank Johnston leased a room next to the bakery. Dr. B.T. Ruthruff, a dentist, also had an office upstairs. If you needed a cavity filled or your back adjusted, there is a good chance you climbed those very stairs.


A Produce Stop in 1918
In 1918, the building became home to the Liberty Fruit Store. Estella Haycook advertised oranges, apples, and fresh produce in the local paper. It was a short but flavorful chapter in the building’s history.


Shoe Shines, Plumbing, and Pistons (1919 to 1923)
By 1919, the ground floor housed the City Shoe Shining Parlor operated by George Denopalos. In 1920, the building was extensively remodeled for the Stuckert & Davenport Plumbing Store. At the time, it sat between the Walter Shoe Store and the J.E. Kern & Bro. Drug Store. By 1923, the space transitioned again to Holloway Auto Supply, which may have been tied to future car dealer A.L. Holloway.


Lighting the Way with Electricity
As Bucyrus modernized, 119 South Sandusky helped lead the charge. The Bucyrus United Electric Company moved in during the early 1920s and offered electric appliances, lighting fixtures, and modern conveniences. Advertisements at the time offered floor lamps for $35 and portable table lamps for $14. This was Bucyrus stepping confidently into the electric age.


Rebuilt and Rented: The 5 to 25 Cent Era
By 1924, the Bucyrus Building & Loan Company had demolished the old structure and constructed a new two-story brick building. They leased the ground floor to J.J. Newberry’s 5-10-25 Cent Store, which remained in the space until 1941.


Stan Shelley Brings Style (1941 to 1953)
After Newberry relocated across the street in 1941, Stan Shelley Clothing moved in and modernized the space. Known as “Bucyrus’ Most Modern Clothing Store for Men,” the shop carried Hart Schaffner & Marx suits, Lee Hats, and Windbreaker sportswear. The grand opening offered flowers to the ladies, cigars to the gents, and candy to the kids.


The Bank Moves In
First Federal Savings & Loan took over the entire building in 1953. During this time, records show the second floor continued to be used. In 1955, directory listings are sparse, but by 1962, First Federal celebrated its 75th anniversary, firmly establishing itself as a local financial leader.
Upstairs in the 60s and 70s


The second floor remained an active space. By the late 1960s, a preserved directory sign confirms the upstairs offices were home to Vance McLaughlin, Realtor, Charles R. Campbell, CPA, and Sears Realty. Meanwhile, the first floor also housed D.K. Auck, who handled both real estate and general insurance services. William C. Hessey’s insurance office also appeared in 1969 phone books under 119½, possibly occupying another upstairs space.


Still More Stories to Find
This building has been everything from a bakery to a bank, from a plumbing store to a place to buy a new fedora or a floor lamp. But we know there’s more.


Did you work upstairs at 119 South Sandusky Avenue? Was your dentist or insurance agent based there in the 70s or 80s? Do you have a photo of the building before the remodel?

We want to hear from you.


Because Bucyrus history isn’t just about buildings. It’s about the people who walked through the doors.
Special thanks to Alison Kovac, John Kurtz, and the Bucyrus Historical Society for their guidance and deep knowledge of local history. This project wouldn’t have been possible without their help.


We’re also grateful to the Bucyrus Public Library, which houses an incredible collection of historical materials and city directories. This history was compiled using archived newspapers, Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps, city directories, and help from the Bucyrus Historical Society. While every effort was made to ensure accuracy, some details may still be incomplete or subject to interpretation based on available records.

Photos: First Federal Community Bank