Rawson Woods Bird Preserve Arch Makes Triumphant Return to Public Life

The historic arch at Rawson Woods Bird Preserve in Clifton made its triumphant return to public life at the Archway Rededication on December 10, 2022. Celebrating its 100th birthday, this 1923 relic is in spectacular condition after having undergone a full restoration by a Clifton volunteer, Stephen Mergner, whose craftsmanship has made it more beautiful than ever. Cincinnati Park Board members, its director, volunteers, and Clifton community representatives all attended the unveiling. 

Located at Middleton and McAlpin Avenues, Rawson Woods borders Mt. Storm Park and Edgewood Grove. In 1923, Joseph Rawson, Frances Helen Rawson, and the heirs of Edward Rawson donated to the City of Cincinnati the first acreage of the preserve “In order to preserve some of the woodland in Clifton in its present primitive state.” An additional gift in 1928 brought the total acreage to just over 10 acres. The area is maintained in its natural state and public access is prohibited.