Bellefontaine's Court Avenue: Paving the Way in American Road History

​In the heart of Bellefontaine, Ohio, Court Avenue holds the distinction of being the first concrete-paved street in the United States. This pioneering achievement dates back to 1893, when local innovator George Bartholomew introduced a new method of paving using Portland cement. His successful experiment transformed the muddy streets surrounding the Logan County Courthouse into durable concrete

pathways, setting a precedent for modern road construction across the nation.​

Bartholomew's vision began with an 8-foot test strip along Main Street in 1891. Despite initial skepticism, the durability of this section convinced city officials to approve the paving of Court Avenue two years later. The concrete used was produced from native marl supplied by the nearby Buckeye Cement Company, located eight miles northeast of Bellefontaine. This innovative approach not only improved local infrastructure but also showcased the potential of concrete as a reliable paving material.​​

​Today, Court Avenue remains a testament to Bartholomew's ingenuity and the city's role in transportation history. The street is commemorated with a historical marker at the northeast corner of East Court Avenue and South Main Street, serving as a reminder of Bellefontaine's contribution to modern road development.​
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For more information, visit the Remarkable Ohio website.