Paved streets are one of the many things we likely take for granted in America. But the small city of Bellefontaine proudly claims "America's Oldest Concrete Street," which dates all the way back to 1891. (Don't worry; it's not falling apart. It's been maintained since the 19th-century.)
Check it out:
Court Avenue in Bellefontaine, Ohio is officially deemed "America's Oldest Concrete Street."
It borders the Logan County Courthouse.
A man by the name of George Bartholemew convinced the Bellefontaine City Council to try it on Court Avenue around the courthouse in 1891.
The unfamiliar mixture called "concrete" had yet to be used to pave streets anywhere in America.
Today, you can find the Court Avenue street sign by the courthouse, but you can no longer drive on the street itself.
(Of course, the street has been repaved several times since 1891.)
There's even a special monument that commemorates the street.
The plaques reads: THIS IS THE FIRST PORTLAND
CEMENT CONCRETE STREET BUILT
IN THE UNITED STATES.
CONSTRUCTED IN 1891
HERE STARTED THE BETTER ROADS
MOVEMENT WHICH HAS GIVEN OUR
CITIZENS FROM COAST TO COAST
SWIFT AND SURE TRANSPORTATION.
1891....1941 ERECTED BY THE BELLEFONTAINE
JUNIOR CHAMBER
OF COMMERCE.
As an added bonus, nearby is the "World's Shortest Street," McKinley Street, which is only 15 ft. long.
Bellefontaine is simply known for its famous streets.
Did you know about this? Have you seen the street for yourself? If so, let us know!
For more unusual, one-of-a-kind spots in Ohio, be sure to check out our previous article, 14 Bizarre Roadside Attractions In Ohio That Will Make You Do A Double Take.
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