Chillicothe’s downtown can blossom into a tourist haven

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

The historic downtown area of Chillicothe is currently undergoing a significant transformation. Over the past five years, it has seen an influx of small businesses taking up residence in previously empty spaces, with numerous historical buildings undergoing renovations. Now, downtown Chillicothe boasts a diverse range of independent retailers offering products such as craft supplies, antiques, candles, tattoos, clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Additionally, the community is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and confectionery stores.

Charlie Rusk, who is actively involved in the downtown area, recommends visiting on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for the best experience. Rusk, alongside his parents Teresa and Charles, runs Tin Top, a store located at 935 N. 2nd St., which is known for its wide array of goods, including gift items and artwork created by local artists.

Rusk, who is also a contractor, along with his business partner Brady Miller, has played a pivotal role in transforming the downtown landscape. They have repurposed a former funeral home into a combination of a shop and event space known as The Mill, and converted Chillicothe’s old Carnegie library into The Carnegie, a boutique hotel. Both projects involved extensive renovations that turned these historic buildings into valuable community assets.

Moreover, Rusk undertook the renovation of the Tin Top building for his parents, alongside Faraway Mercantile, another commercial property that now hosts a shop and tanning salon managed by Rusk’s wife, Amber, and sister, Joanna Vining.

The renovation efforts have been particularly mindful of preserving the historical integrity of these buildings while modernizing them for current use. For instance, the Tin Top building, which was purchased in 2020, has been restored to highlight its century-old charm, with natural light illuminating its brick walls and rustic beam ceiling—a significant improvement from its previous state.

This revitalization of Chillicothe’s downtown area not only enriches the local community but also positions it as an attractive destination for tourists globally. Visitors can now enjoy a unique blend of shopping and dining experiences set against the backdrop of beautifully preserved historical architecture, making Chillicothe a compelling destination for those looking to explore the richness of small-town America.

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