Rising Sun's Courtyard to be renovated

Restoration led by Mark and Chad Banschbach

(RISING SUN, Ind.) – The historic Courtyard in downtown Rising Sun will be renovated as part of a partnership between multiple entities. 

The building overlooking the Ohio River was constructed in 1827 and played a pivotal role in shaping Rising Sun’s riverfront. It once served as a hotel and restaurant. 

However, years of partial vacancy and aging deterioration led to Indiana Landmarks listing it as a Top 10 Most Endangered Property in 2018. 

It is now owned by Mark and Chad Banschbach who have partnered with the City of Rising Sun, Ohio County Economic Development Corporation and the Rising Sun Revolving Loan Fund Board. 

The partnership will allow for a $1.2M project to renovate 13 residential units, while adding additional office space and a facility for a restaurant. 

“We are thrilled to find common ground. I’m so excited about all this; it’s been quite a project! City Council, the Ohio County EDC and Rising Sun RLF easily did the right thing with immediate approval. This project is that important to everyone. I’m proud of them. We didn’t have to budget additional funds as we utilized available funds that were waiting for a justifiable project,” said Rising Sun Mayor Steve Slack. 

Banschbach also restored the historic Speakman House in Aurora. 

When most people look at old historic properties, they see a liability. We see potential. I have been fortunate to secure two prominent Top 10 Most Endangered landmark properties for restoration in Aurora and Rising Sun. I’m confident that the second turns out as well as the first and I am proud to be entrusted with the revitalization of the Courtyard in partnership with the City of Rising Sun, City Council, Ohio County Economic Development Corporation and the Rising Sun Revolving Loan Fund Board," Mark Banschbach said.