The renovation of a century-old Lancaster shoe factory repurposed into luxury loft apartments and retail spaces.
COMING SUMMER OF 2025
THE RENOVATION
Urban Restorations has begun renovation and construction of The Shumaker at 219 North Columbus Street, an approximately 138,000-square-foot former downtown factory, transforming this proud part of Lancaster history into luxury apartments and retail space.
As The Shumaker begins its transformation, Lancaster residents can expect not only the beautification of its downtown Columbus Street neighborhood, but the preservation of a central Ohio landmark that will continue to serve a significant purpose in the community. Urban Restorations, in partnership with Ohio Department of Development, Destination Downtown Lancaster, and Lancaster Economic Development, will meet established historical guidelines on both the interior and exterior of the building.
The transformative downtown project will not only ignite the revitalization of this section of historic Lancaster, it also will address the community's need for housing, encourage urban dwelling, and promote economic development by housing small businesses.
FIRST FLOOR RETAIL PLAN
SECOND FLOOR RESIDENTIAL PLAN
THIRD FLOOR RESIDENTIAL PLAN
BUILDING HISTORY
The original building was completed at 219 N. Columbus Street in 1900, home to the Fairfield Shoe Co. owned by the H. C. Godman Shoe Co. of Columbus. After the acquisition of the adjacent Baptist Church property in 1909 the factory expanded to the building that stands today. The construction throughout features sturdy post and beam, arched windows, and third floor skylight and wood ceiling beading.
By 1919, the factory employed nearly 2,000 people and was manufacturing 20,000 pairs of shoes a year. In the years following World War II the building housed Essex Wire Company which manufactured electrical switches for automobiles. Then, from 1982 through 2005, it was occupied by Fairfield Industries until the property was abandoned. The factory stood vacant for nineteen years.
ABOUT URBAN RESTORATIONS
Urban Restorations is a family-owned real estate development company. We specialize in historic renovations, new home construction and property management.
