A Word from Pastor Nathan

Dear Friends,

Visitors to Washington Avenue Christian Church take in the grandeur of the historic Starr mansion. The parlor and the library have exquisite detail. The plaster reliefs, beautifully restored after a flood several years ago, harken back to a time of art and detail that most modern homes do not feature. Since the church purchased the property in the 1940s and appended the sanctuary in the early 1950s, we have preserved the history of one of Elyria’s oldest homes.

As you know, there is more to the story of the historic mansion. William Graves Sharp purchased the home and lived here for decades. An Elyria High School graduate, Sharp earned a law degree from the University of Michigan. He was a journalist, lawyer, industrialist, and Lorain County prosecutor prior to being elected to congress for three terms. Sharp introduced legislation that led to the eventual creation of airmail. Shortly before the outbreak of World War I, President Woodrow Wilson named Sharp as Ambassador to France. He served in this capacity from December 4, 1914, to April 14, 1919. His service to our city, county, country, and world merits both our honor and respect.

In late April 2019, Bill Bird, president of the Elyria Historical Association, a subsidiary of the Lorain County Historical Society, met with me to propose an Ohio Historical Marker to be installed on our front lawn honoring the late ambassador. The EHA has generously offered $2,000 toward the creation of the marker. The Property Committee and Board enthusiastically responded to the proposal. Last month, Bill sent the application for the marker to Columbus. Having several markers to his credit, Bill feels sure that the selection committee will approve the request.

To make the marker a reality, we need to match the historical association ’s financial commitment. Good News: We’re already halfway there due to the proceeds from Sing -for – Your -Supper and a member’s designated gift. I know we can raise $1,000 for this effort. Gifts beyond that amount will go toward our Covenant Fund. We hope to install the Marker in September 2020. Let us continue to preserve our history as good stewards of this beautiful property.

Peace abundant,

Nathan