by Ruth Bamberger
Ludlow’s claim to fame in Northern Kentucky revolves around the extensive railyards built in the 1870s by the Cincinnati Southern Railway for servicing the new route from the “Queen City” to Chattanooga. The Ludlow we know today is the result of that rail line.
Today at least three dozen trains travel through Ludlow, but the railyards are gone except for one grand building at the head of Carneal St. known as the STOREHOUSE, where rail supplies and offices were housed. This structure is a beautiful Victorian brick building erected between 1890-1892. The Ludlow Heritage Museum negotiated a ten year lease in late 2021 to renovate the interior and exterior as well as the surrounding grounds for the new Museum Center. It will enable the Museum, now located in the Public Works Building, to expand its exhibitions and provide space for community programs and events. Since the STOREHOUSE lies in an industrial zone, the Museum is required to go through all the hurdles of securing the necessary permits. This is a lengthy process, but with the expertise of local architect Andy Corn, an important hurdle was surmounted when the Kenton County Board of Adjustment recently approved the use of a museum in this building. The Museum Board has laid out a multi year plan for fundraising and renovation of the building.
Already volunteers have cleaned out equipment and supplies that were left when the railyards shut down in the 1970s. Installing a new roof on the building is the immediate need and bids have come in between $45,000-$60,000. Preserving and creating a valuable use for this building will bring many benefits to Ludlow. It will keep Ludlow connected to its history, enrich residents and visitors about the city’s unique history, and provide a distinctive exhibit and event space.
A new Museum e-commerce web site is in the works, but donations are being accepted now by cash or check made out to LUDLOW HERITAGE MUSEUM STOREHOUSE, P.O. Box 16192, Ludlow, KY 41016. The Museum (next to the City Bldg.) is open every Saturday from 11-3.
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