Downtown Bucyrus tells its story not just through its buildings, but through the people and businesses that once filled them. Thanks to an Eagle Scout project by Alexander Clark Neff in 2011, five “Downtown Folklore” markers now line South Sandusky Avenue, preserving pieces of our city’s character for future generations. Each plaque marks more than a location; it marks a moment in time.

(Photos taken by Craig Doda, April 2, 2022.)

Baumoel’s – 116 S. Sandusky Ave. (1886–1976)

For nearly a century, Baumoel’s was the place for women’s fashion, offering clothing, jewelry, shoes, and even glove fittings. The department store featured an innovative cable-car change system that zipped payments and receipts between floors, a forerunner of the modern vacuum tubes used in banks today. Founded by Morris Baumoel, the store was known for its service and style and redefined what shopping meant in Bucyrus. This is now the home for the Amish Vault & Graceful Gifts.

Sens Block – 122–124 S. Sandusky Ave. (Built 1910)

This early 1900s building satisfied the city’s sweet tooth as home to the Bucyrus Candy Kitchen, while its upper floors served as the meeting hall for the Loyal Order of Moose. In 1941, the Palm Supper Club moved in, offering members a place to eat, drink, and socialize. The club’s hand-painted murals still grace the walls today, a colorful reminder of a bygone era. This section is now the TLC Medical Supply Store.

Picking Block – 209–213 S. Sandusky Ave.

Once home to merchant tailor Frank D. Thomas, this building evolved through countless local businesses including real estate agencies, dry cleaners, and photography studios. From Henry’s Studio (1945–1988) to Photographs and Memories, this address has been capturing Bucyrus faces for nearly a century. The south half housed Stan Shelley’s Menswear, continuing its tradition of style and service downtown. If you visit this block now, it may be because you’re in need of a wedding dress! Special Moments is here now.

Linn Block – 315 S. Sandusky Ave. (Built 1908)

The Linn Block has worn many hats, from Shaw Furniture and Carpet Co. to Rossman’s Grocery and later Sullivan’s Toyland in the 1960s. Sullivan’s was a child’s dream come true, featuring two full floors of toys and a slot-car racing track upstairs. The memories made there still bring smiles to those who remember racing cars above Sandusky Avenue. Clady’s Flooring & Decorating can be found in this location.

Perennial Café – 240 S. Sandusky Ave.

This property has been part of Bucyrus life since 1830, beginning as the home of Cornelius Gilmore. Over the years, it became Fred Petersilge’s Café and Saloon, the New York Restaurant, and the York Café, run by brothers Gus and Harty Vallas. Later it was known for Ray’s Pizza and Howie’s Pizza before becoming the professional office building it is today. Nearly two centuries later, it continues to serve the community in new ways. Look for this plaque on The Computer Guru’s building!

Each of these markers reminds us that Bucyrus history lives all around us.

The next time you walk through downtown, take a moment to read them and imagine the people who once filled those spaces. The story of Bucyrus is still being written, one building at a time.