For over two decades, our parent company, Nelson Fine Art and Gifts, has been in the business of manufacturing and distributing classic art across a myriad of products to hundreds of gift shops in the U.S. and Canada. In 2009, we bought the old Lincoln School in downtown Steubenville, moved our manufacturing operation off the family farm, and became directly involved with the revitalization movement that was beginning to creep across the city. Our family and company have played significant roles in putting Steubenville back on the map through efforts such as the Steubenville Nutcracker Village and the Steubenville Eggsibition, as well as participation in the annual Fort Steuben Days, Dean Martin Fest, and Hometown Celebration.
Where does coffee fit into all of this? In 2016, we purchased an unused structure in the heart of downtown Steubenville, previously known as the Raney & Sheal Building. The three-story building contained a ballroom and three separate store fronts, giving us the perfect opportunity to expand our own offerings to meet the needs of a struggling community. After considerable renovations, upgrades, and facade improvements, we've added what every hoppin' downtown needs: Drosselmeyer's Nutcracker Shoppe (year-round Christmas store), The Steubenville Popcorn Co., and finally, the Renaissance Coffee Roasting Co. & Leonardo's Coffeehouse.
The word “Renaissance” is French for “Rebirth” and is associated with the cultural movement that took place in Europe from the 14th to 17th century. The Renaissance brought forth revolutions in literature, diplomacy, education, science, and art. Since they came into existence, coffeehouses have been centers for socializing, conducting business, and exchanging ideas. We hope that our efforts to revitalize downtown Steubenville will bring about a Renaissance of sorts for this town, through an inspired appreciation for art, history, creative craftsmanship, music, architecture...and coffee.
Where does coffee fit into all of this? In 2016, we purchased an unused structure in the heart of downtown Steubenville, previously known as the Raney & Sheal Building. The three-story building contained a ballroom and three separate store fronts, giving us the perfect opportunity to expand our own offerings to meet the needs of a struggling community. After considerable renovations, upgrades, and facade improvements, we've added what every hoppin' downtown needs: Drosselmeyer's Nutcracker Shoppe (year-round Christmas store), The Steubenville Popcorn Co., and finally, the Renaissance Coffee Roasting Co. & Leonardo's Coffeehouse.
The word “Renaissance” is French for “Rebirth” and is associated with the cultural movement that took place in Europe from the 14th to 17th century. The Renaissance brought forth revolutions in literature, diplomacy, education, science, and art. Since they came into existence, coffeehouses have been centers for socializing, conducting business, and exchanging ideas. We hope that our efforts to revitalize downtown Steubenville will bring about a Renaissance of sorts for this town, through an inspired appreciation for art, history, creative craftsmanship, music, architecture...and coffee.
Meet Our Team
We sure don't look like much, but we do appreciate good coffee!
Mark Nelson
CEO & Father of 10 |
Jim Chaney
Roaster & Home Brewer |
Therese Nelson
Manager & Musician |