The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Church places historical marker for hero
The city of Elyria recently announced its seventh historical marker, making Lorain County’s total of official state recognized historical markers at 35.
The home of William Graves Sharp, a wartime U.S. ambassador to France and three-time congressman is located at 301 Washington Ave. and was one of the earliest houses built on the street.
Its twin home is located down the street and now is known as the Lorain County History Center.
“I hope people take time to read the marker when they’re out traveling, walking or stopping by the church,” said Bill Bird, president of the Elyria Historical Association.
“There are interesting stories all throughout the county,” Bird said.
Sharp lived in the house from his childhood until his death in 1922, Bird said.
The home is now Washington Avenue Christian Church, which bought the property in 1945.
The church has done a few renovations, such as building a sanctuary.
However, many interior details remain the same.
Pieces such as marble fireplaces, decorative ceiling mouldings and the grand staircase are all still in place.
The process to get a historical marker started in January 2019.
Sharp worked at a factory to earn money to pay for law school at the University of Michigan, Bird said.
He served as the Lorain County prosecutor from 1885-88.
Sharp served as a congressman from 1908 to 1914 and resigned from the post after President Woodrow Wilson appointed him ambassador to France in June 1914.
During his lifetime, Sharp not only made history, but witnessed it as well.
Sharp was alive during the Civil War, Spanish American War, World War I, the Spanish Flu, the Wright Brothers’ first flight and the building of the Statue of Liberty.
“He was alive during a time where the world was changing rapidly,” Bird said. “Yet, he came back to Elyria to live in his home and keep his life here.”
“He was alive during a time where the world was changing rapidly. Yet, he came back to Elyria to live in his home and keep his life here.”
— Bill Bird, president of the Elyria Historical Association