ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Another Zanesville icon, the Lorena Sternwheeler may be lost during a year that seems as if many local historic symbols are disappearing.
The Lorena, that cruised into Zanesville in 1976, is a replica of the nineteenth century original vessel that hauled passengers and cargo between Zanesville and Pittsburgh.
Muskingum County Commissioners met Monday, March 14, and passed a Resolution accepting a Notice of Sale for the Lorena.
Muskingum County Commissioner Mollie Crooks noted the county bore most of the financial responsibility and explained the reason for the sale.
“Recently, we had the resignation of our captain and also we’re in need of new crew members. So what that did, is it provided the commissioners with an opportunity to say, is it time to keep doing things the way we always done them or are there new opportunities that may better market and make a business out of the Lorena,” Crooks said.
Potential bidders can contact the Muskingum County Commissioners office for further details or County Maintenance Supervisor Scott Lee for maintenance and inspection details.
“Previously we had announced that we were going to offer the sale of the Lorena through auction,” Crooks said. “After some discussion today, the commissioners did change that. We are going to offer the Lorena for sale by sealed bid. There will be a minimum bid requirement of $5,000.”
Crooks was very pleased with the visitors bureau’s partnership and their coordination of operations and sees potential in releasing the Lorena into the private sector.
In a statement from Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce, Convention and Visitors Bureau. Vice President Kelly Ashby stated the organization would be happy to assist the new owners in marketing and promotion if the Lorena remains in the county.
