The Heritage Gateway, constructed in 2025, was designed to tell Hartville’s story through its materials and form. Barn stone honors the community’s agricultural roots, while the circular design echoes the foundation of a classic farm silo. Repurposed railroad rails celebrate Hartville’s railway heritage, while the steel framework and wooden pallet backdrop pay tribute to Hartville’s industrial legacy.
The new Heritage Gateway not only transformed an underutilized downtown space into a meaningful landmark but also serves as a key component of a planned wayfinding signage system designed to create a stronger sense of arrival, improve navigation for visitors, and reinforce Hartville’s identity as a welcoming, connected destination.
We appreciate the community’s support of the Heritage Gateway in Historic Downtown Hartville! We are deeply grateful to the hundreds of community members whose purchase of engraved pavers helped make the Heritage Gateway project possible. https://hlcd.org/paver/donors/
Each material and design choice was made thoughtfully to reflect the story of Hartville. The barn stone was selected to honor the area’s deep agricultural roots, while the circular layout intentionally echoes the foundation of a traditional farm silo. Repurposed railroad rails define the space as a nod to the community’s railway heritage, and the engraved brick pavers—locally sourced from Belden Brick Company—highlight our commitment to using regional materials whenever possible.
Steel for the pergola framework was chosen both for its durability and as a tribute to Hartville’s industrial legacy. The added landscaping, including trees and shrubs, was designed to create a welcoming mini-park that softens the surrounding asphalt and visually connects with the park across the intersection.
Finally, the scripted “Hartville” lettering is part of the coordinated wayfinding signage system planned along the West Maple Street corridor, linking Historic Downtown Hartville to our regional destination—Hartville Hardware, Kitchen, MarketPlace & Flea Market. This same font also appears on the mural at 115 Prospect Ave S, reinforcing a cohesive visual identity for the community.
Our goal has always been to create a meaningful, lasting landmark that reflects Hartville’s heritage while enhancing the experience of residents and visitors alike.
We’re grateful for the community’s interest and proud of the story this gateway tells.