11/15/2024
Ohio Steeplejack: Crafting a Legacy with Integrity in a Changing World
Michael Hardin, owner of CIS Steeplejack in Litchfield, Ohio, is one of the last craftsmen in the country preserving traditional steeplejack methods while upholding a strong sense of integrity. Since he was 17, Hardin has dedicated his life to repairing and restoring church steeples, cathedrals, and other towering structures that define America’s skyline. What began as a young boy’s necessity to ease his mother’s financial burdens has grown into a legacy of craftsmanship, dedication, and a commitment to quality that few in his field can match.
Hardin’s journey began in his father’s absence, while in his teens he sought various job openings and trained under well-seasoned tradesmen, learning the arts of masonry, roofing, rigging, traversing, and true craftsmanship—skills he would later use to preserve some of America’s most iconic structures. "I was taught by real men who knew their craft," Hardin recalls. "They weren’t in it for quick money. They were in it because it was their life’s work. This isn’t something you find just anywhere." These lessons in using time-tested materials became the foundation of Hardin’s philosophy: building for longevity, not just fixing what’s broken.
Throughout his career, Michael worked on numerous high-profile projects, from restoring local churches and cathedral domes to repairing flagpoles in Washington, D.C., various ball stadiums, and the top of Cleveland’s historic Terminal Tower. One particularly harrowing moment came when a flagpole halyard snapped, leaving a 30 by 50 foot American flag stuck 700 feet in the air. Hardin teamed with a partner at the time, had to climb the terminal’s cupola to release the flag. "When you're that high up, you can’t help but feel close to your divine creator," he says with a smile, reflecting on the humbling experience.
Shortly after his mother passed away, his partnership dissolves as often happens in life, differences in values and vision led Michael to go on his own. "Some have a hard time letting go" Hardin admits. "There are times when you are overly loved," he laughs. "But I had to step away. I couldn't continue with something that didn’t align with my principles." From that point, Michael took full control of his future, forging his own path in the business world and continuing to build a reputation for quality and integrity.
In 1999, Hardin founded CIS Steeplejack, a company built on the principles of integrity, transparency, and respect for the craft. "This work isn’t just about fixing buildings," he explains. "It’s about doing right by your clients. No cutting corners. You’ve got to put in the time, use the right materials, and make sure the job’s done right."
Today, Michael runs a small but well-organized crew that travels across Ohio and surrounding states, restoring everything from church steeples to historical schools and local municipal buildings. His expertise in traditional restoration methods has made him a highly sought-after steeplejack in a world where many tradesmen have abandoned these practices in favor of cheaper, faster solutions. "I want to preserve a future for my sons to carry on," Hardin says, passing on his knowledge to the next generation.
Despite his success, Hardin faces growing challenges. The closure of churches—once a central part of his business—has reduced the demand for restoration services. "Churches are closing left and right," Hardin says. "When that happens, the need for repairs drops." Economic pressures are also making it harder for institutions to afford the costly, time-intensive work that Hardin’s restoration requires. "A lot of places just don’t have the funds," he adds. "It’s getting hard on us true craftspeople."
Adding to these challenges, even though a niche, Hardin faces competition that sometimes employs questionable practices. "When others intentionally mislead or confuse potential clients, it’s frustrating," he says. "Transparency and integrity should be the foundation of any business." Despite this, Michael remains focused on building genuine relationships and delivering quality work. "I won’t compromise on doing things the right way," he insists.
Outside of work, Michael is a devoted family man. He and his wife who both run the business, are raising three young sons, one of whom has autistic challenges. "I’ve learned a lot from my boys," Hardin says. "It’s not easy, but it teaches you patience and how to take life one step at a time. I want to build something for them—something more than just a business. It’s a legacy."
At 56, Michael is determined to continue his work, teach his crew, and preserve the craft he loves. "I’ve still got plenty of work left in me," he says. "The right way is always the hard way, but it’s the only way that makes sense." Hardin remains committed to his craft, despite the mounting challenges. He aims to leave behind a legacy built on integrity, skill, and a deep respect for the art of restoration.
