Lucas County Land Bank acquires Pythian Castle in Toledo

Pythian Castle at the corner of Jefferson Street and Ontario Street has been acquired by the Lucas County Land Bank.

The historic Pythian Castle on Jefferson Avenue has been acquired by the Lucas County Land Bank for future redevelopment.

Built in 1890, the long vacant building once functioned as a fraternal lodge for the Knights of Pythias and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

County Treasurer Wade Kapszukiewicz, chairman of the Land Bank, announced today the building is being transferred to the bank. The organization is funded by an increase in penalties for delinquent property taxpayers. It acquires tax-delinquent vacant homes and buildings in hopes of finding reuse for them.

Mr. Kapszukiewicz said plans call for preserving the building's exterior and renovating the interior into a mix of retail, office, and upscale residential lofts.