Benjamin F. Kuhns Building, Dayton

The Benjamin F. Kuhns Building stands out for its well-preserved late nineteenth-century architecture, which led to its designation as a historic site. This Romanesque Revival building, constructed of brick with a slate roof, incorporates elements of stone and terracotta. Its distinctive facade is divided into five bays, each featuring a large arch, and the street-facing southern side mirrors this design on a larger scale. Designed by the Dayton-based architectural firm Peters and Burns, and constructed by local contractors Beaver and Butt, the building is an architectural gem of its era.

Throughout its early years, the Benjamin F. Kuhns Building housed various commercial enterprises. The Manhattan Clothing Store and Oleman's Department Store were notable tenants during the 1890s and 1910s, respectively. Interestingly, the building also served educational purposes, hosting an arts school during the 1888-1889 school year. Among its interior features is a historically significant mail chute, reputed to be one of the earliest installed in any building nationwide, adding a unique element to its rich history.

The building's namesake, Benjamin Kuhns, moved from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Dayton in 1855 at the age of thirty. By his fiftieth birthday, Kuhns had become a prominent industrialist, transforming a small Dayton firm into a leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment. Besides his business acumen, Kuhns was a noted philanthropist, playing a crucial role in founding Miami Valley Hospital, a testament to his commitment to community welfare.

In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, the Benjamin F. Kuhns Building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in April 1978.