“Remembering Tom Allyn: The End of an Era for Allyn’s Jewelers in Ironton”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Top 10 Stories of 2010: Political and Infrastructure Developments Made Headlines

Published 12:00 am Saturday, December 30, 2023

By HEATH HARRISON and MARK SHAFFER

In the year 2023, several noteworthy events took place in Lawrence County, Ohio. Here are the top 10 stories that made headlines:

1. Stephens elected as Speaker
State Representative Jason Stephens, hailing from Getaway in Lawrence County, made waves in statewide politics when he was elected as Ohio’s speaker of the House. Despite facing initial backlash from his own party, Stephens allied with House Democrats and secured the position, leaving his opponent, Rep. Derek Merrin, in the dust.

2. Allyn’s Jewelers closes
After 93 years in business, Allyn’s Jewelers, one of the oldest establishments in Ironton, closed its doors. The passing of owner Tom Allyn in June marked the end of an era for the Ironton business community. The store had been providing generations of customers with jewelry since 1930.

3. Ironton gets roundabouts
In a bid to reduce accidents, the Ohio Department of Transportation implemented two roundabouts at the State Route 93 and U.S. 52 interchange near Ironton. The intersection had been a hotspot for crashes, with over 60 occurring in a four-year period. The $3.9 million project was completed six months ahead of schedule, making transportation safer and more efficient for the community.

4. Infrastructure projects
Ironton saw significant infrastructure developments, including the groundbreaking of a stormwater project in the city’s north end. This multi-million-dollar project involved the installation of storm sewer pipes, new asphalt streets, and concrete curbs. South Point also underwent street repairs and water line replacements. Furthermore, funding was allocated for the long-awaited Chesapeake Bypass, which will expand State Route 7 to a four-lane highway.

5. Lombard demolition
After serving generations of students, the Lombard building, which housed an elementary school, Head Start program, and the Open Door School, was torn down. The building, constructed in 1915, held significant historical value but was deemed too expensive to maintain. The property’s future remains uncertain.

6. Capchem to build plant
In June, international company Capchem announced plans to open a factory in Lawrence County. The plant, set to produce lithium-ion battery electrolytes, will be located near PureCycle on County Road 1A in Ironton. The project is expected to create job opportunities for around 60 individuals.

7. Changing of the guard
Several changes in leadership occurred across the county. Coal Grove elected Andy Holmes as its new mayor, replacing the retiring Gary Sherman. Proctorville also saw a new mayor, Bill Elliott, succeeding three-term Mayor Richard Dunfee. In Ironton, incumbent Mayor Sam Cramblit II won re-election, while Robbie Brown joined the city council.

These are just a few of the top stories that shaped Lawrence County in 2023. From political shifts to infrastructure advancements, the county experienced significant developments that will have a lasting impact on its residents and future..