NEWARK — The Preservation Hero Award was presented to Ben Sutherly, of Troy, at the Heritage Ohio Annual Awards ceremony at the Midland Theatre in Newark on Tuesday, Oct. 15.

The Preservation Hero Award is awarded to an individual who has shown outstanding leadership in revitalizing and preserving Ohio communities.

Over 100 nominations were received for 11 awards. The awards honor Ohio’s best projects, places, and people who create lasting impacts through historic preservation and community revitalization.

In early 2020, a tornado damaged the upper parapet wall of the Odd Fellows building in Troy, prompting the owner and eventually the City to call for its demolition. This led to a four-year struggle, led by Sutherly and the Troy Historic Preservation Alliance (THPA), to save the building, including the 1840s courthouse building to the rear of the Odd Fellows hall, which played a key role in the journey of the emancipated Randolph Freedpeople from Virginia to Ohio in 1846.

Sutherly spearheaded a public campaign involving court cases, inspections, and community engagement to halt the demolition. As part of a court-mediated settlement agreement, THPA reached a deal to purchase and stabilize the building, raising more than $800,000 within four months, exceeding their goal.

THPA’s innovative “brick sponsorship” fundraising campaign contributed significantly to the success. Ben’s relentless dedication and efforts ensured the preservation of both the IOOF building and the courthouse, which would otherwise have been demolished.

Sutherly’s commitment to historic preservation is evident in the personal sacrifices he made, including leading a legal fight against the city and property owner, advocating at public meetings, and organizing a robust social media campaign. His dedication was symbolized by his act of physically blocking a backhoe to prevent the building’s destruction. His unwavering passion saved two important historical landmarks in Troy.

Heritage Ohio prompts economic growth through the preservation and revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods across Ohio. Heritage Ohio is the designated statewide Ohio preservation partner with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. To learn more about how to get involved visit www.heritageohio.org.