From "Save The Tavern!" to "Revitalize The Tavern"...

In 2011, three individuals came together to raise awareness about saving The Old Tavern, in Unionville, Ohio.  Over the last 10 years, we have grown from a grassroots movement to raise awareness to the deteriorated condition of a beloved historic building into a thriving volunteer driven non-profit engaged in multi-million-dollar project to "Rehabilitate, Restore, & Revitalize" the Tavern into a unique historic multi-use venue and destination in Northeast Ohio.  

In the beginning, co-founders Marc Petersen, Erin Ruth Cicero, and Brian Horgan met at a local coffee shop to develop strategic plans for the Tavern and its preservation.  As the project evolved and expanded, so did our volunteer team and our operations.  We have faced each new challenge and opportunity for growth with determination, passion, and a collaborative spirit.  

Together we succeeded in saving The Old Tavern...we are excited to move forward with our expanded mission to "Revitalize The Tavern".

Through our conversations with many of you who shared your memories and hopes for the Tavern's revitalization, the Society created an ambitious 5-year goal to celebrate the Grand Re-opening of The Old Tavern on May 29, 2026...100 years to the day of another Grand Re-opening.  To achieve our new goal, we have spent the better part of last year following through on the recommendations from our Feasibility Study to strengthen our organization.  The top priority being establish a dedicated, professional position to oversee the operations of the organization.

After a thorough search for our first Executive Director, one candidate fit the various and unique needs of the mission...Erin Ruth Cicero.  Since incorporation, Erin has served as President and Chief Executive.  She has done an exceptional job, as a volunteer, to oversee all aspects involved in our mission.  We wish to thank Erin for her past service to the Society and are excited to be working with her in her new and expanded role!

As a result of this organizational change, Brian Horgan has been appointed to serve as President and Board Chair.  Brian, co-founder, has served as Vice President of Operations, overseeing fund development and organizational operations.  Marc Petersen, co-founder, will serve as Vice President and will continue to oversee the building restoration project.  Tom Hearn has been an outstanding contributor to the effort over the years and will continue to serve as Director of Community Affairs and assist with project management.  Michelle Gerred, Esq. will continue in her role as Events Team leader and Pat Gerred, master gardener, remains dedicated to her role as Garden Team leader to rehabilitate and restore the historic garden at The Old Tavern.  

Additionally, the Society has contracted with Christine Kohls, of Raising Results, LLC, to manage our fund development strategies.  With Phase II fully funded and construction on track to be completed this June, our immediate focus will be organizational capacity and matching funds for the next $125,000 Cultural Facilities Grant that the Society was awarded this spring.  

We are very proud of the work we have completed over the past year and are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.  We appreciate you and our growing community of Tavern Friends and sustaining partners for your generosity and commitment to our mission.  We invite you to continue this journey with us and look forward to celebrating the Tavern's revitalization!

Together we will "Revitalize The Tavern".
​

Join.
Partner.
Volunteer.

GIVE