The Resilience of the Miles Park Historic District: A Community’s Quest for Revitalization
CLEVELAND — Tucked away in a quiet corner of Cleveland’s Southeast Side lies the Miles Park Historic District, a place steeped in history yet marred by the passage of time and economic struggles. While its sprawling green space and landmark buildings like the Carnegie Library recall a vibrant past, the district is now engaged in a delicate dance between preservation and decline. Derrick White-Childs, a resident and carpenter for 14 years, recalls the nostalgia tied to the area, yet mourns its current state. “We have this big grand porch,” he laments. “I think we’ve been on it three times. ‘Cause I hate looking at the sadness. The sadness.”
A Glimpse into History
The Miles Park Historic District spans just shy of six acres, situated at the western end of Union-Miles neighborhood, near Slavic Village. Designated as a historic site on the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s, the district was once the heart of Newburgh, a thriving village that transformed from a farming community into an industrial hub filled with immigrant laborers who contributed to the region’s growth. The area boasted various amenities, including a church, a library, and homes that anchored both community and culture.
However, the loss of landmarks over the years has left a void. A significant blow came last year when the Miles Park United Methodist Church, a 150-year-old building, was consumed by fire. As local leaders reflected on the loss, they recognized a stark reality: some pieces of history, once lost, are irretrievable.
Revitalizing the Historic District
Donald Woodruff, the director of real estate development for NuPoint Community Development Corporation, emphasizes that revitalization efforts are underway. The organization is drafting a master plan that aims to enhance the quality of life in Union-Miles, an area where African-American families settled during the 1960s. The neighborhood is predominantly Black, currently consisting of about 95% African-American residents. With a commitment from the city, millions of dollars have been earmarked for upgrading homes, energizing business districts, and attracting developers to vacant lots, including former school sites.
“I think this area will – and should – receive some spinoff,” Woodruff asserts, indicating the potential for a cultural and economic renaissance in Miles Park.
Community Engagement and Historical Awareness
Local councilman Kevin Bishop envisions a renaissance that reclaims the district’s history. He seeks to leverage existing community assets, like the local waterfall—Cuyahoga County’s tallest—and the nearby Miles Park School, to foster engagement and activity. “We need to tell the history of the square, the public square that was there,” he insists. This narrative is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about preserving the cultural legacy of the immigrants who originally settled in the area, built churches, and contributed to industry, all while dreaming of a better future.
Despite the challenges posed by neglect and destruction, the story of Miles Park resonates with resilience. The designation on the National Register of Historic Places is significant, even if it does not prevent demolition. It presents an opportunity for tax credits to entice investment in preservation.
Currently Unraveling: The Aftermath of Neglect
The decay of the historic district can be harshly illustrated by the condition of several structures, including a Masonic temple that has fallen victim to foreclosure and neglect. This building, like others in the neighborhood, stands as a testament to the community’s struggles. White-Childs acknowledges the urgent need for development: “That building needs to come down,” he says, underlining a broader sentiment among residents eager for renewal.
A Vision for the Future
With hopes to turn things around, White-Childs leads a venture to introduce modular homes to Cleveland, harnessing innovative construction methods to fill empty lots. His determination echoes the ambition that once characterized the neighborhood. “These houses are going up,” he professes. “If they don’t help us, they’re still going up. God will make a way.” His vision not only aims to address current living conditions but to reclaim the block’s historic significance.
Community engagement and grassroots efforts are paramount in this pursuit. As Woodruff declares, “It’s really the story of the Southeast Side,” highlighting a legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, and family growth, which continues to shape the identity of the neighborhood.
Conclusion: A Hopeful Revival on the Horizon
The Miles Park Historic District represents a poignant chapter in Cleveland’s story, where moments of sadness coexist with flickers of hope. While the district’s former glory faces dwindling structures and memories, its residents remain steadfast in their commitment to revive the heart of their community. Dedicated efforts, alongside an unwavering sense of purpose, may yet lead to a future that honors the district’s rich heritage and reestablishes its place in the lives of its residents. As White-Childs dreams of revitalizing his neighborhood, the collective spirit of history, community, and resilience shines a light onto a promising path forward.
