ISSUE 2
Ohio History Connection
TRAVELER’S GUIDE FREE ADMISSION FOR MEMBERS TO 50+ SITES!
From Earth to the Moon,
ARMSTRONG AIR & SPACE MUSEUM TURNS 50! p. 6
250 YEARS OF HISTORY at Schoenbrunn Village p. 16
CELEBRATE A YEAR OF
Featured
IN THIS ISSUE From Earth to the Moon................. 6
The Collections Call of a Lifetime p. 28
Big Changes Coming to Glacial Grooves......................... 10 Road Trippin' for Hayes’ 200th Birthday................................ 12 250 Years of History at Schoenbrunn Village..................... 16 Explore the Indigenous Wonders of Our World.................. 25 Rebuilding the World of Paul Laurence Dunbar................... 32 Land of Grant Trail.......................... 35 Ohio-Born Novelist of the American West................................44 Discover Ohio's Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks................48
Visiting All 58 sites! p. 42
Welcome to the
OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION’S
TRAVELER’S GUIDE! We hope you’ll use the information in these pages to discover the rich history of our state, while creating some history of your own through road trips and weekend adventures. If you’re planning to visit our historic sites and museums, consider purchasing an Ohio History Connection membership. Membership is your personal passport to history with free regular admission to our 50+ sites around Ohio as well as other benefits and discounts. You can explore ancient American Indian earthworks, historic homes and gardens, nature preserves, presidential sites and more for one low price. With five membership levels, there’s something for everyone. You can find out more at ohiohistory.org/join or by scanning the QR code below. Not only does membership benefit you, it also benefits history. When you purchase a membership, you make a direct impact on the preservation of these historic places. Your support means we can continue to share their important stories into the next generation and beyond. With this guide and an Ohio History Connection membership, you’ve got a year of adventures at your fingertips! Happy exploring!
Truda Shinker, Membership Manager
Become a member!
Hayes Presidential Library & Museums
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
Cooke-Dorn House Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve
ARMSTRONG AIR & SPACE MUSEUM 500 Apollo Dr., Wapakoneta 45895 800.860.0142 • ohiohistory.org/armstrong
CEDAR BOG NATURE PRESERVE 980 Woodburn Rd. (Off U.S. 68), Urbana 43078 800.860.0147 • ohiohistory.org/cedarbog
COOKE-DORN HOUSE 1415 Columbus Ave., Sandusky 44870 877.734.1386 • ohiohistory.org/cooke
1
2+ hrs.
2+ hrs.
1
1+ hrs.
FALLEN TIMBERS BATTLEFIELD MEMORIAL PARK 5601 Anthony Wayne Trail, Maumee 43537 800.860.0149 • ohiohistory.org/fallentimbers
FORT AMANDA MEMORIAL PARK St Rte 198, Wapakoneta 45608 844.306.3360 • ohiohistory.org/fortamanda
FORT JEFFERSON MEMORIAL PARK 3981 Weavers-Fort Jefferson Rd., Greenville 45331 844.288.7708• ohiohistory.org/fortjefferson
0.25
1+ hrs.
*
1+ hrs.
*
30 mins.
FORT MEIGS 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg 43551 800.283.8916 • ohiohistory.org/fortmeigs
6
2+ hrs.
FORT RECOVERY MUSEUM & MONUMENT 1 Fort Site St., Fort Recovery 45846 800.283.8920 • ohiohistory.org/fortrecovery
2
1+ hrs.
GLACIAL GROOVES GEOLOGICAL PRESERVE Kelleys Island, Port Clinton 43452 866.921.5710 • ohiohistory.org/glacialgrooves HAYES PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUMS Spiegel Grove, Fremont 43420 800.998.7737 • ohiohistory.org/hayes
0.25
INDIAN MILL 7417 County Hwy 47, Upper Sandusky 43351 800.600.7147 • ohiohistory.org/indianmill
1
1
30 mins.
1
JOHNSTON FARM & INDIAN AGENCY 9845 N. Hardin Rd., Piqua 45356 800.752.2619 • ohiohistory.org/johnston LOCKINGTON LOCKS Museum Trail & Cross Trail, Lockington 45356 800.752.2619 • ohiohistory.org/lockington
2+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
INSCRIPTION ROCK PETROGLYPHS Kelleys Island, Port Clinton 43452 866.921.5710 • ohiohistory.org/inscriptionrock
Armstrong Air & Space Museum
Ave rage Visit
NORTHWEST
Picn ickin g (*s helt er) Rest room s
Visit our
Mus eum /Vis itor Cen Hist ter oric Buil Ope d n to ings Pub lic Mou nds/ Eart hwo Mon rks ume nt/G rave site Natu ral A rea/ Trail s (m Gift iles) Sho p
NORTHWEST
Fort Meigs
30 mins.
5
5 locks
2+ hrs.
30 mins.
50
From to the Travel to the Moon and back at the Armstrong Air & Space Museum By Nicholas Dekker If you visit the Armstrong Air & Space Museum in Wapakoneta at dawn or dusk, you’ll feel like you’re creeping up on a futuristic moon base. The museum opened in 1972, three years to the day after Wapakoneta’s most famous native took mankind’s first steps on the moon. It celebrates his achievements and stands as a monument to Ohio’s contributions in aviation and space exploration. Even as you approach the museum, you’ll see nods to Armstrong’s life and service. His FD5 Skylancer, the jet he flew for Air Force research programs, sits parked in front of the museum. Carved bronze statues of Armstrong as a young boy and as a aviator sit outside, too.
6
The museum was first proposed while Armstrong still walked on the moon. “When Neil and Buzz were on the moon on July 20, 1969, getting their suits dirty, our governor announced he was proposing this museum,” says Greg Brown, the museum’s historian and collections coordinator. “He wanted a place where people could be reminded of all Ohioans who strained against the bonds of gravity— aviators and astronauts.” Since it first opened, the museum has undergone remodeling and expansion. In 1999 the Modern Gallery was added to the south end of the building, and in 2018-19 the F5 Skylancer, which had sat exposed to the elements for decades, was restored and its cockpit brought inside so guests could see it up close. More recently the museum has seen the addition of a STEM center, a redecoration of the moon rock room and new exhibits.
...a place where people could be reminded of all Ohioans who strained against the bonds of gravity—aviators and astronauts.
7
And, of course, who can miss seeing a piece of the moon? It’s hard to fathom that the four-ounce piece of basalt once was part of the moon’s surface —brought back to Earth by Armstrong on the Apollo 11 mission. See footage of their mission and more at the Astro Theater, located under the white dome in the center of the museum. It shows films that dive deep into the moon landing and space exploration.
WALK IN ARMSTRONG’S STEPS The museum is designed to take you chronologically through Armstrong’s life and career. It tells the story through artifacts, photos, videos and interactive displays, from Boy Scout paraphernalia to Navy uniforms to his Gemini and Apollo spacesuits. Be in awe at Armstrong’s Gemini VIII spacecraft, which he piloted with David Scott in 1966 for the first successful docking between two craft in orbit. Learn more about the harrowing mission, and how Armstrong recovered from an unexpected spin that could have ended in tragedy. Check out the lifesized Gemini and Apollo mockups to get a sense of the cramped quarters in which astronauts worked. Try your hand at landing the lunar module or bringing the space shuttle in for a touchdown.
8
New in 2022 for the 50th celebration of the museum is the Learjet 28 Longhorn number 001, flown by Armstrong in the late 1970s in which he set five world aviation records for altitude and time to climb. With the Learjet’s installation, the museum now showcases four craft flown by Armstrong throughout his career, starting with the Aeronca Champion he flew to get his pilot’s license, and his F5 Skylancer and Gemini VIII. The anniversary celebrations extend all year long with a new 360-degree virtual tour, in-person and Facebook Live presentations, and an exhibition in the Modern Gallery exploring the history of the museum. See a remarkable object: a booklet signed by members of the Wapakoneta community while fundraising for the museum. Anyone who donated $1 or more could sign their name to the book, which was presented to Armstrong at the museum’s opening in 1972. “The whole community got to write their name in this book,” says Logan Rex, the museum’s curator and communications director. “They gave this book to Mr. Armstrong in a wooden box. The wood came from the property where he was born. It’s a very hallowed artifact for the citizens. He in turn donated it back to the museum later.”
ARMSTRONG INSPIRED OTHERS TO LOOK TO THE MOON AND BEYOND The Armstrong Air & Space Museums pays tribute to Ohio’s place in space history by honoring other astronauts from the Buckeye State and celebrating the history of space exploration inspired by Armstrong himself. Among those Ohio astronauts is Don Thomas, a Cleveland native who flew on four space shuttle missions between 1994 and 1997. “I wanted to be an astronaut since I was six years old,” Thomas says. “When we launched Alan Shepard into space, I said ‘I want to do that.’ The next year was John Glenn. I spent the morning looking out the window of my classroom looking for John Glenn to fly over Ohio.” Armstrong himself was a major influence on Thomas, especially being an Ohio astronaut. “I was 14 when he walked on moon,” Thomas remembers. “I watched the landing, the moonwalk. It finished around 2 a.m., and I remember going outside in my backyard and looking out at the moon and I couldn’t believe there were humans walking around out there.” Thomas remembers going to the Armstrong Air & Space Museum when it first opened in the early 70s, seeing the aircraft and the Gemini VIII capsule. Later, Armstrong continued to be a support and inspiration to Thomas in his own career with NASA. “On my third flight we were allowed to invite people to our launches,” Thomas recalls. “I decided to write Neil Armstrong a letter and invite him to the launch. I said, ‘My name is Don Thomas, I’m one of the Ohio astronauts, you were one of my
heroes as a young boy.’ He wrote back really simply and said, ‘I’ll be there.’ The day before launch I got a call from NASA who said Mr. Armstrong wanted to meet with me. I got to spend an hour with Neil, his wife Carol and my wife in our crew quarters.” “The next morning he went over to the launch control center and met with my wife to wish her well,” Thomas adds. “He tracked down my mom in the family viewing area. It shows you what kind of person he was; he knew what the spouses, what my mom was going through.” Armstrong even signed a photo Thomas carries of his son, which he kept velcroed above his seat during each shuttle mission. In 2019, Thomas got to serve as the grand marshal for the parade honoring the 50th anniversary of the moonwalk in Wapakoneta. Thomas was inspired by the activities and seeing the next generation of space explorers discovering Armstrong’s legacy: “Any chance I get to do something in Wapakoneta to support Neil and the museum and what he represented to me and the whole country, I’ll always take the opportunity to pitch in.”
PLAN YOUR VISIT ARMSTRONG AIR & SPACE MUSEUM 500 Apollo Dr. Wapakoneta 45895 800.860.0142 ohiohistory.org/armstrong
9
although most was not uncovered until laborious excavations undertaken from 1971-1973. Privately-funded improvements in 2019 improved ADA accessibility and educational content, but also served as an important catalyst for preservation studies and new investment.
Glacial
GROOVES The Ohio Departmental of Natural Resources has been working closely with the Ohio History Connection to transform the visitor experience and to preserve the grooves for future generations. Sitting at the highest point on Kelleys Island, Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1967 and are the most famous glacial grooves in the world. About 2.6 million years ago, long cycles of climate change allowed massive glaciers to form and flow from Canada into Ohio.
10
Since the early 1970s, the grooves have been exposed to the harsh island climate. Due to the site’s unique nature, important questions had to be answered: Are the grooves actively deteriorating and if so, what are the specific causes? What are the most effective options for preservation? Are there historic cultural resources from the quarrying that could be impacted? In addition, the site’s infrastructure was aging and needed replacement. After detailed studies, ODNR and OHC finally had answers and a plan.
Exciting new changes are underway at Glacial Grooves this year!
By about 14,000 years ago, the ice sheet that last covered northern Ohio retreated. The island retained a spectacular reminder of the glacier’s former presence—these dramatic grooves that had been carved into the limestone bedrock by actions of advancing ice and meltwater. They remained hidden for millennia, buried under a thick layer of glacial sediments and soils.
The primary threat was revealed to be water and soil washing in from the surrounding bedrock. This soil allowed vegetation to take hold and degrade the rock. A plan was made for redirecting water and reducing the amount of encroaching nearby vegetation. This also provided the opportunity to reopen viewing of the adjacent quarry. Finally, a plan was made to replace the
infrastructure with carefully engineered amenities that would enhance the experience and add ADA accessibility to the entire site. Visitors to Glacial Grooves will see many changes. The most dramatic change is the replacement of the old footbridges across the grooves with a single, wide bridge at the extreme western end. This bridge will also serve as a spectacular viewing platform over the old quarry. A new curving interpretative trail will allow ADA access to the bridge and upper portion of the grooves. The upper portions of the bedrock will be surfaced with walking pavers that as serve to cover the new drainage solutions that keep water out of the grooves. The lower portions of the groves will have improved ramps and viewing. Old chain link fences are being replaced with aesthetically-pleasing custom fencing for improved visibility and safety. The parking lot will be expanded to accommodate golf-cart parking and a bike rack. Enhanced education stations are being added throughout. The new improvements will be completed in late August 2022. We hope you will plan to visit soon and experience the Glacial Grooves as they’ve never been seen before.
PLAN YOUR VISIT GLACIAL GROOVES GEOLOGICAL PRESERVE Kelleys Island Port Clinton 43452 866.921.5710 ohiohistory.org/glacialgrooves
Starting in 1830s, limestone quarrying began to reveal this buried wonder and a portion was set aside for preservation,
11
RUTHERFORD B. HAYES Presidential Library & Museums Join our membership manager, Truda Shinker, as she road trips to the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums in Fremont. The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums is located in Fremont, about halfway between Toledo and Cleveland. Coming from Columbus, it is an easy drive through rolling farm land. And while it may be a bit of a drive for members from southern Ohio, it is well worth the time. The site consists of the Hayes home, the Presidential Library and Museum and the grounds—each are not to be missed. The home has been lovingly restored and provides a fascinating glimpse into President Hayes’ private life, as well as life in 19th century Ohio. The Presidential Library and Museum chronicles the contentious 1876 presidential campaign and the Hayes presidency, as well as the Hayes family, the history of Fremont and other related topics. The spectacular grounds have walking paths, over 1,700 trees, wildflowers, the Hayes tomb and a lot of squirrels. Be sure to wear your walking shoes!
ADDRESS: Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420 (this is the actual address of the site and what you will want to use when you navigate there with your phone or GPS)
HOW MUCH TIME: In order to see both buildings and the grounds, I would budget at least three hours.
MY FAVORITES: The house tour is not to be missed. My favorite part of the house was President Hayes’ bathroom/ office/tool storage area. Also be sure to look up while you’re in the home--many of the rooms have elaborate wallpaper on the ceiling. In the museum, I was especially taken with the section on the lower level devoted to telling the story of Rutherford and Lucy Hayes’ relationship. They were head over heels in love and it was a delight to see their gifts and notes to each other.
TRUDA’S TIPS: Be sure to go to the museum first to check in. You can find out when the next house tour starts and visit the restrooms. You can also grab a map of the museum and check out the museum store.
DON’T MISS: When you’re touring the grounds, don’t forget to look for the plaques on many of the trees. President Hayes enjoyed naming trees in honor of people who he felt made great contributions to society. He would have a tree ceremony where the honoree would put his hands on the tree, and the trees would be marked with plaques.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit ohiohistory.org/hayes.
12
13
Fort Laurens
*
30–60 mins.
*
1+ hrs.
CUSTER MONUMENT St Rte 646 & Chrisman Rd., New Rumley 43986 866.473.0417 • ohiohistory.org/custer FORT LAURENS 11067 Fort Laurens Rd. NW (CR 102), Bolivar 44612 800.283.8914 • ohiohistory.org/fortlaurens Custer Monument
McCOOK HOUSE 15 S. Lisbon St., Carrollton 44615 800.600.7172 • ohiohistory.org/mccook
1+ hrs.
1
SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE 1984 E. High Ave., New Philadelphia 44663 800.752.2711 • ohiohistory.org/schoenbrunn
SHAKER HISTORICAL MUSEUM 16740 S. Park Blvd., Shaker Heights 44120 800.860.6078 • ohiohistory.org/shaker
TALLMADGE CHURCH 115 Tallmadge Cir., Tallmadge 44278 844.288.7710 • ohiohistory.org/tallmadge YOUNGSTOWN HISTORICAL CENTER OF INDUSTRY & LABOR 151 W. Wood St., Youngstown 44501 800.262.6137 • ohiohistory.org/youngstown ZOAR VILLAGE 198 Main St., Zoar 44697 800.262.6195 • ohiohistory.org/zoar
QUAKER YEARLY MEETING HOUSE 298 Market St., Mount Pleasant 43939 800.752.2631 • ohiohistory.org/quaker
Museum of Ceramics
0.5
1
MUSEUM OF CERAMICS 400 E. 5th St., East Liverpool 43920 800.600.7180 • ohiohistory.org/ceramics
Youngstown Historical Center
18
1+ hrs.
30 mins.
3.25
*
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
1
30 mins.
11
Ave rage Visit
NORTHEAST
Picn ickin g (*s helt er) Rest room s
Visit our
Mus eum /Vis itor Cen Hist ter oric Buil Ope d n to ings Pub lic Mou nds/ Eart hwo Mon rks ume nt/G rave site Natu ral A rea/ Trail s (m Gift iles) Sho p
NORTHEAST
Zoar Village
4.9
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
We've found the Ohio History Connection and its vast network of sites to visit to be the a perfect fit for our family to experience and explore together. – Mia L., Delaware, OH
14
Schoenbrunn Village
Ohio’s first Christian settlement. The state’s first church and schoolhouse— even its first code of laws. From 1772 to 1777, Schoenbrunn Village was the site of each of these historic milestones. But more than that, the thriving village was a utopia, an inspiring place where Moravian missionaries from Europe and American Indians from the Delaware tribe lived together harmoniously. Now, as Schoenbrunn Village celebrates its 250th anniversary, there has never been a better time to experience it for yourself.
FIVE YEARS OF HARMONY
250 250 Years of History at
SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE The short-lived utopia was the site of many Ohio firsts —and you can experience it all today. By Matthew Biddle
16 16
On May 3, 1772, David Zeisberger led a group of Moravian missionaries from the relative security of their settlement in Pennsylvania to the Ohio Frontier. They had been invited by the Delaware tribe to establish a new home along the Tuscarawas River, near present-day New Philadelphia, Ohio. Thus, Schoenbrunn Village was born. In German, “schoenbrunn” means “beautiful spring,” a perfect name for the lush site the group now inhabited. Immediately, they established roots—both literally and figuratively—by planting crops and building log homes. “It’s amazing how quickly the Village grew on the Ohio Frontier,” says Wendy Zucal, executive director of the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, which manages the site today on behalf of the Ohio History Connection. “In the five years they were there, the Village had three streets and approximately 60 buildings. Simple round log cabins were built for visitors, but once you converted to the Moravian faith, you would be given a lot on which to build a more permanent home and gardens.”
Larger, nicer homes made out of hewn logs could have multiple rooms and fireplaces. Zeisberger’s home even had stairs to a second floor and a study in the back, where he could write his sermons before walking over to the church. Most cabins also came with extended property, where residents could erect other structures or plant gardens. Schoenbrunn Village also boasted a church, schoolhouse and community gardens. Here, the Moravians and Delaware converts lived peacefully together according to a set of laws, which forbade alcohol and dancing, and mandated that villagers observe the Lord’s Day, among other rules. “In the Village, the Moravians were educating both males and females in school, which was progressive in the 18th century and most especially, on the Ohio Frontier,” Zucal says. “The Village was thriving, until the Revolutionary War tensions began to reach the frontier.”
...the Moravians were educating both males and females in school, which was progressive in the 18th century...
The smallest homes were one-room cabins made out of round logs, with dirt floors and a hole in the ceiling where smoke from a central fire could escape.
17
Seeking to avoid violence, the villagers remained neutral in the conflict, causing both the British and American colonists to distrust them. Rumors swirled that Zeisberger may even have been a spy for the Patriots, though that’s never been proven. In the end, though, the villagers at Schoenbrunn were caught in the middle and decided to abandon the Village, mostly to Canada, dismantling their homes and church on the way out.
STEP BACK IN TIME Efforts to restore Schoenbrunn Village began in the 1920s, as members of the Tuscarawas County Historical Society used Moravian diaries and other historical records to locate the site. One of the first things you’ll see at the visitor center is a new metal sculpture on a large stone, depicting the three Delaware clans: the wolf, the turkey and the turtle. The sculpture, gifted by the Northern Province of the Moravian Churches to the Delaware Nation for the site’s 250th anniversary, welcomes visitors in English, German and Delaware. “When you enter Schoenbrunn, you are immersed into a different world,” Zucal says. “We want visitors to understand this is an American Indian site and the Germans were guests of the Delaware. It still is their land. We are honored and privileged to take care of it for them.” Next, enter the visitor center and museum, where you can see a new interpretive timeline and maps created for the 250th anniversary, watch an introductory video and read about the village’s incredible history from both the Moravian and Delaware perspective. From there, step outside and into the past. As you walk through the village, you’ll see 18 cabins, including a small American Indian home that was restored in 2020 and Schebosh Cabin, a larger home with a porch that was unveiled for the 250th
18 18
anniversary. In addition, you can visit the church and school, other cabins and God’s Acre, the original mission cemetery. Throughout the site, signs and markers guide your way and tell the stories of the families who lived in each home. Costumed interpreters bring the settlement to life, sharing the customs of 18th century Moravians and Delawares with modern visitors. As you wander around, look for “villagers” gardening, making candles, writing with quills or churning butter. “You really can immerse yourself in the 18th century,” Zucal says. “Even though the site is located in the city of New Philadelphia, it’s barricaded by a wall of trees, and you really do feel like you’re walking back into 1770s.” Don’t forget to pack a lunch, too. The site includes beautiful outdoor spaces and picnic facilities, as well as trails to enjoy some time in nature.
EXPERIENCE AND CELEBRATE HISTORY To enhance your journey into history, Schoenbrunn Village hosts several annual events, including traditional Christmas Love Feast and Easter Sunrise services, the popular Children’s Day and the Colonial Trade Faire, which stages an 18th century trade fair with period vendors from all over the country. Don’t miss the seasonal lantern tours, where each group receives a lantern that shines along with hundreds of luminaries that light up the dark as you explore the village at night. After spending the day in Schoenbrunn Village, Zucal hopes visitors appreciate the legacy the Moravians and Delawares left behind at this remarkable, beautiful site. “This is a site where diverse people— American Indians, folks from Germany and colonists—came together in peace and worked together to create a successful village,” she says. “That’s something we’re all trying to do today, bringing people of different backgrounds and beliefs together to find a way to live together—and they did it. You can walk in their footsteps and see what that looks like.”
PLAN YOUR VISIT SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE 1984 E. High Ave. New Philadelphia 44663 800.752.2711 ohiohistory.org/schoenbrunn
IMMERSE YOURSELF FURTHER IN OHIO’S HISTORY. HISTORIC ZOAR VILLAGE Founded in 1817 by German Separatists, Zoar Village thrived as a communal society for more than 80 years, making it one of the most successful settlements of its kind in American history.
SHAKER HISTORICAL MUSEUM In 2022, the museum will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the North Union Shaker Village. Visitors can learn the story of the North Union Shakers, as well as modern-day Shaker Heights, which was developed as a planned community in the early 1900s.
QUAKER YEARLY MEETING HOUSE Built in 1814, the Quaker Yearly Meeting House was a gathering place for Quakers in Mount Pleasant and an important landmark in the abolitionist movement.
DENNISON RAILROAD DEPOT MUSEUM Stop at this National Historical Landmark in Dennison where more than 1.3 million service members were served free food as they were leaving to fight in World War II.
FORT LAURENS Learn about the life of soldiers on the frontier at the site of Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort. Fort Laurens was built as a wilderness outpost in 1778.
19
FORT LAURENS, Ohio’s only Revolutionary War Fort. The outline of the fort remains along with artifacts found during archaeological digs. The Fort Laurens Museum offers a video of the history of the fort along with Colonial Era artifacts and weaponry. Allow 1 hour for tour. 11067 Fort Laurens Rd., Bolivar 44612 800.283.8914 • fortlaurens.org
HISTORIC ZOAR VILLAGE Founded
Settling the Frontier
Tour 20
Planning a visit to Schoenbrunn Village? Make it a road trip and spend the day exploring the early settlements of Tuscarawas County.
by a group of 200 German Separatists seeking religious freedom, this National Historic Landmark, celebrates the life and times of Zoar, Ohio. Explore the grounds of this quaint village with original buildings dating back to 1817. Costumed interpreters guide visitors as they travel back in time with visits to the Town Hall, Number One House, Bakery, Garden House and beautiful Zoar Garden to learn how this village worked and worshipped for over 80 years as a communal society. As an added option, visit the Zoar Church for musical performance from the beautiful pipe organ. Allow 1-1/2 to 2 hour(s) for tour. 198 Main St., Zoar 44697 800.262.6195 • historiczoarvillage.com
HISTORIC GNADENHUTTEN, meaning huts of grace, was the site of the massacre of 92 Christian Native Americans during the Revolutionary War period. President Theodore Roosevelt called this tragedy the “black stain on the frontier character that time can not wash away.” This historical park and museum located on the original grounds pays tribute to the memory of the settlement. Allow 1 hour for tour. Free Admission. 352 S Cherry St., Gnadenhutten 44629 740.254.4143 • gnaden.com
HISTORIC SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE, an experience so epic, it has been 250 years in the making. Historic Schoenbrunn Village, established in 1772 as the first Christian settlement in Ohio, this Moravian mission organized by David Zeisberger and the Delaware Nation celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2022. Daily tours and special events throughout the year offers visitors a unique glimpse into colonial life during the time of the American Revolution. Home to Ohio’s first school and first church, guests can explore 17 reconstructed log buildings on the original sites along with a museum and the original cemetery. Allow 1 to 1-1/2 hour(s) for tour. 1982 E. High Ave., New Philadelphia 44663 740.922.6776 • ohiohistory.org/schoenbrunn
TRUMPET IN THE LAND, Ohio’s first outdoor drama, celebrated their 53rd season in 2021. See the day’s exploration come to life as the story of Schoenbrunn Village is told through the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green. This outdoor production depicts trials facing David Zeisberger and his new settlement of Schoenbrunn as they struggle to survive during the Revolutionary War. The settlers, becoming caught in the middle of British and American forces, endure the fury of war which leads to the violent massacre of 96 Christian Indians at Gnadenhutten. Performances run seasonally June-Aug.; Check website for dates & times. 600 Trumpet Dr. NE, New Philadelphia, 44663 330.364.5111 • trumpetintheland.com
Admission prices subject to change. Please confirm with the attraction at the time of booking.
21
Newark Earthworks
Wahkeena Nature Preserve
FLINT RIDGE ANCIENT QUARRIES & NATURE PRESERVE 15300 Flint Ridge Rd., Glenford 43739 800.283.8707 • ohiohistory.org/flintridge
HANBY HOUSE 160 W. Main St., Westerville 43081 800.600.6843 • ohiohistory.org/hanby
3
Ohio History Center
NEWARK EARTHWORKS 455 Hebron Rd., Heath 43056 800.589.8224 • ohiohistory.org/newark
OHIO HISTORY CENTER & OHIO VILLAGE 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus 43211 800.686.6124 • ohiohistory.org/center ohiohistory.org/ohiovillage
15
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
30-60 mins.
*
SHRUM MOUND 3141 McKinley Ave., Columbus 43204 800.840.6127 • ohiohistory.org/shrum
*
1
LOGAN ELM 4500 St Rte 361, Circleville 43113 888.770.7425 • ohiohistory.org/loganelm
Flint Ridge
*
1+ hrs.
2+ hrs.
WAHKEENA NATURE PRESERVE 2200 Pump Station Rd., Sugar Grove 43155 800.297.1883 • ohiohistory.org/wahkeena
WARREN G. HARDING PRESIDENTIAL SITES Home: 380 Mt. Vernon Ave. Memorial: Vernon Heights Blvd. at Delaware Ave. Marion 43302 • 800.600.6894 ohiohistory.org/harding
30 mins.
2
2
Ave rage Visit
CENTRAL
Picn ickin g (*s helt er) Rest room s
Visit our
Mus eum /Vis itor Cen Hist ter oric Buil Ope d n to ings Pub lic Mou nds/ Eart hwo Mon rks ume nt/G rave site Natu ral A rea/ Trail s (m Gift iles) Sho p
CENTRAL
Ohio Village
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
I remember when they first built Ohio Village and how absolutely enthralled we were when we first went there. Loved visiting the Ohio History center too —so many different exhibits, so many different aspects of daily life that you can see, such a variety of exhibits that it would interest almost anyone... – Elizabeth H., Wilmington, OH
22
Harding Home
NEW EXHIBIT AT THE OHIO HISTORY CENTER!
Explore the
INDIGENOUS WONDERS OF OUR WORLD Discover some of the vast earthworks that American Indian people built 2,000 years ago. Our new exhibit, Indigenous Wonders of Our World, explores the eight ancient earthworks in Ohio that are candidates for the United Nations’ World Heritage List, a list of the world’s greatest wonders.
The exhibit’s presentations cover what was used to build the earthworks, basic astronomy, artifact discover and more. Some exhibits will be presented by a Tribal voice and have some of the artifact descriptions presented in native languages as well as English.
In this interactive exhibit, guests will learn how Ancient Indians employed astronomy and geometry to align the earthworks with the cycles of the sun and moon.
The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks have been nominated for the United Nations’ World Heritage List, a list of the world’s greatest wonders. This nomination will be considered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in summer 2023. Read more information on World Heritage on page 48.
“The new Indigenous Wonders of Our World exhibit is something that truly allows people to walk away with a new appreciation for these extraordinary landmarks that exist around us all,” said Neil Thompson, media and public relations manager at the Ohio History Connection. “Because earthworks typically appear like hills or mounds visually, the true complexity behind them is often unknown to people. We can’t wait to explore this fascinating piece of history with our guests.”
24
PLAN YOUR VISIT OHIO HISTORY CENTER 800 E. 17th Ave. Columbus 43211 800.686.6124 ohiohistory.org/center
25
DAY ONE Morning: Join Columbus City Adventures for a step-on guided tour of Columbus. Travel through downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods with the Ohio Statehouse as the historical centerpiece and listen to stories of national significance, international intrigue, local history and lore. Lunch: Established in 1876, the North Market is Columbus’ only remaining true public market. More than 30 merchants vend a wide variety of fresh, local, authentic food, along with several stands offering everything from cookware to flowers.
PATRIOTIC PLACES & HISTORICAL SPACES Tour Spend the day exploring the various military museums and collections located throughout Columbus along with the Ohio History Center. Columbus the perfect place for a militarythemed adventure.
26
Afternoon: Visit Camp Chase Cemetery, a military staging and training camp established in Columbus in 1861 after the start of the Civil War. The site and the cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Boat House at Confluence Park, the only waterfront restaurant with a view of the downtown Columbus skyline. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or by appointment.
DAY TWO Morning: Visit the Motts Military Museum, dedicated to preserving the memory of all individuals that served in the United States military. Lunch: Head out to lunch at The 94th Aero Squadron, a themed restaurant full of military memorabilia and aviation relics depicting the times of the WWI and WWII eras. Enjoy a dramatic view of the arriving and departing traffic at John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WHAT TO SEE, DO AND EAT IN COLUMBUS, visit experiencecolumbus.com or scan the QR code.
Afternoon: Experience the “Great War” in a new way, through a special display commemorating the centennial of the United States entering World War I at the Ohio History Center.
Evening: Spend the rest of the day in Old Worthington, a historic neighborhood founded in 1803 by New England settlers. Stroll the sidewalks of Worthington, then pick from hundreds of fragrances before pouring your own custom-scented candle at Penn & Beech. Stroll the shops of Historic Worthington. Enjoy dinner at restaurants such as The Whitney House, Le Chatelain or Mozart’s.
DAY THREE Morning: Herlich Willkommen! A hearty welcome to German Village, Columbus’ premier downtown neighborhood and one of the preeminent historic districts in the United States. After touring the district, take a little time to stretch your legs and explore the retail shops. The Book Loft, one of the largest independent book stores in the country, offers 32 rooms of bargain-priced books. Or visit Helen Winnemore’s, the oldest store of its kind in the United States, which features usable, wearable art handcrafted in America. Lunch: Located in a historic brick livery stable, Schmidt’s Restaurant und Sausage Haus has offered award-winning, handcrafted food by five generations of the Schmidt family since 1886. Save room for dessert! The cream puffs are worth the trip itself! Afternoon: Visit the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM), the only place where the stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen will be told together. The museum features dynamic exhibits, an outdoor memorial grove and a spiral processional that ascends to a rooftop sanctuary. Evening: Finish your trip with dinner on your own in one of Columbus’ unique neighborhoods, such as Grandview Heights, Gahanna or the Short North Arts District.
27
In 2018, our history curator Cliff Eckle had the most amazing experience of his entire career. A few years before that, the John & Annie Glenn Museum joined the Ohio History Connection site network. The museum in New Concord is the original home that belonged to John’s parents. After getting married, John and Annie lived with them in the New Concord house, making it a part of Ohio history. Yet there was one small—but significant— problem. The museum had many artifacts from the time period but had very few artifacts related to John Glenn or his family, beyond a few commemorative and political campaign items. John Glenn unfortunately had passed away in 2016. His daughter, Lyn Glenn, was preparing their home in Maryland for sale. Luckily, Eckle and our other curators were able to get in contact and work with Lyn to discover many artifacts relating to John Glenn and his family.
The
COLLECTIONS CALL of a LIFETIME!
The Ohio History Connection’s John Glenn Collection
28
Lyn had sorted many of the items. By the end, our curators had collected over 700 objects! They ranged from household accessories like saltshakers to small pins and buttons from her grandmother’s jewelry box. Our curators got to work cataloguing and photographing the items, all while hearing Lyn’s stories about her parents and grandparents. One story that Eckle recalls is about a set of dishes Annie Glenn liked. “Annie had admired this particular set of dishes, but they didn’t have enough money to purchase it, he said. John Glenn had been a contestant on the game show, Name That Tune, in the late 50s and had actually won. “One of the first things that (he) did was to purchase this set of dishes,” Eckle said. Our curators were not only interested in objects, but photographs, as well. In the basement of the home was an amazing collection of photos of John Glenn an astronaut and during his military career. More than 1,000 photographs were collected from the Glenn home.
The collection visit had a great impact not only on Eckle, but also the Ohio History Connection. “We went from having mediocre, unimportant collections to extraordinary collections,” he said. Now, we are excited to share those collections with the public. See these and many other objects on display at the John & Annie Glenn home.
WATCH CLIFF ECKLE TALK ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE by scanning the QR code above.
PLAN YOUR VISIT JOHN & ANNIE GLENN MUSEUM 72 W. Main St. New Concord, 43762 740.826.3305 ohiohistory.org/glennmuseum 29
U.S. Grant Boyhood Home
ADENA MANSION & GARDENS 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe 45601 800.319.7248 • ohiohistory.org/adena
6
DAVIS MEMORIAL NATURE PRESERVE 2715 Davis Memorial Rd., Peebles 45660 866.749.0701 • ohiohistory.org/davis
Serpent Mound
Fort Hill Earthworks & Nature Preserve Davis Memorial Nature Preserve
Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve
*
2
FORT ANCIENT EARTHWORKS & NATURE PRESERVE 6123 State Route 350, Oregonia 45054 800.283.8904 • ohiohistory.org/fortancient
3
FORT HILL EARTHWORKS & NATURE PRESERVE 13614 Fort Hill Rd., Hillsboro 45133 800.283.8905 • ohiohistory.org/forthill
11
2+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
*
2+ hrs.
*
2+ hrs.
HARRIET BEECHER STOWE HOUSE 2950 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati 45206 800.847.6507 • ohiohistory.org/stowe
1
1+ hrs.
JOHN RANKIN HOUSE 6152 Rankin Hill Rd., Ripley 45167 800.752.2705 • ohiohistory.org/rankin
1
1+ hrs.
30 mins.
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
MIAMISBURG MOUND 900 Mound Rd., Miamisburg 45342 866.580.6508 • ohiohistory.org/miamisburgmound
NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTER 1350 Brush Row Rd., Wilberforce 45384 800.752.2603 • ohiohistory.org/naamcc
PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR HOUSE 219 N. Paul Laurence Dunbar St., Dayton 45402 800.860.0148 • ohiohistory.org/dunbar
SERPENT MOUND 3850 State Route 73, Peebles 45660 800.752.2757 • ohiohistory.org/serpentmound
*
1
STORY MOUND Delano St., Chillicothe 45601 800.319.7248 • ohiohistory.org/serpentmound
30
4
Ave rage Visit
SOUTHWEST
Picn ickin g (*s helt er) Rest room s
Visit our
Mus eum /Vis itor Cen Hist ter oric Buil Ope d n to ings Pub lic Mou nds/ Eart hwo Mon rks ume nt/G rave site Natu ral A rea/ Trail s (m Gift iles) Sho p
SOUTHWEST
Adena Mansion & Gardens
0.5
15 mins.
U.S. GRANT BIRTHPLACE 1551 State Route 232, Point Pleasant 45153 800.283.8932 • ohiohistory.org/grantbirthplace
1
U.S. GRANT BOYHOOD HOME & SCHOOLHOUSE Home: 219 E. Grant Ave., Georgetown 45121 Schoolhouse: 508 S. Water St., Georgetown 45121 877.372.8177 • ohiohistory.org/grantschool
2
WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON TOMB Brower Rd. & Cliff Rd., North Bend 45052 844.288.7709 • ohiohistory.org/harrison
*
0.1
30-60 mins.
*
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
Rebuilding the World of
PAUL LAURENCE
150
DUNBAR Born on June 27, 1872, Paul Laurence Dunbar is beloved as one of the first influential African American Poets. Just in time for his 150th birthday, a new traveling exhibit designed by the the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center and the Ohio History Connection in partnership with the National Park Service will reimagine the way in which we tell his story.
This story was adapted from an article written by the exhibit’s curators, Hadley Drodge and Derek Pridemore, in Echoes, our bi-monthly membership magazine. To join and read more incredible stories like this one, visit ohiohistory.org/join.
32
Paul Laurence Dunbar–Diamond of Gem City focuses on viewing the world as the famous poet saw it. Dunbar was born in Dayton and began composing poetry at a young age. In high school, he published the city’s first known African American newspaper, the Dayton Tattler, with his friend Orville Wright, who would later invent the airplane with his brother Wilbur. After a favorable review of his first book, Oak and Ivy, Dunbar catapulted to fame. He went on to publish books of poetry, fiction and even collaborated on the first all-black Broadway production. As his health and marriage declined, he returned home to his mother, Matilda, in Dayton, where he passed away from tuberculosis in 1906.
The early friendship between Wright and Dunbar is a fun anecdote, but there is no archival evidence that the two remained friends into adulthood. Dunbar, who often commemorated important people and events with a poem, never recorded any lines honoring Wright’s first flight. Yet, more people know this story than Dunbar’s friendship with Col. Charles Young, a great American who had a number of firsts himself.
These details of his life are well documented, but taking a closer look at his personal papers tells some lesser-known stories. The new exhibit examines details of his live that biographers leave out and the many people who inspired him and kept him afloat during difficult times.
After serving in the American West and in the Philippines with the 9th Cavalry Regiment, nicknamed the “Buffalo Soldier,” Young was assigned to Wilberforce University in Ohio in 1894, where he first met Dunbar. When the two
Young was the first African American military attaché, the first African American superintendent of a national park and the first African American to earn the rank of colonel, among many other accomplishments. He, like Dunbar, also had a love of poetry, art and music.
33
met in 1895, Dunbar was not yet 23 years old. However, his public readings already garnered attention and he accepted an opportunity to read at Wilberforce, where Young was in attendance. The two became good friends and continued to write to each as different forces pulled them apart and out of the state of Ohio. Dunbar had been busy touring overseas and moved to Washington, D.C. In 1898, Young left to train troops for potential action in Cuba as the Spanish-American War erupted in April. The families of Young and Dunbar remained in Dayton and became close over the years, sharing visits and meals and creating music together when Young was in town or Dunbar was strong enough to make the trip. After Dunbar’s death in 1906, letters of sympathy flooded Matilda Dunbar’s mailbox. She took the time to write to those closest to the family, send a photo of Paul to Young. In 1907, Young joined the effort to memorialize Dunbar as a member of the advisory board for the Paul Laurence Dunbar Memorial Committee.
34
The connection between Young and Dunbar is just one of the many lesserknown stories told in the traveling exhibit Paul Laurence Dunbar–Diamond of Gem. The exhibit is currently on display at the Paul Laurence Dunbar house through January 9. Museum hours are 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.
200 April 27, 2022 marked the 200th anniversary of the birth of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States. Grant was born in Point Pleasant, Ohio and his boyhood was spent in Georgetown, Ohio where he lived for 16 years.
As part of the Dunbar 150 commemoration in the Dayton area, many special programs are planned to honor his birthday this year. Find upcoming events at ohiohistory.org/dunbar.
Discover the life of President Grant and explore Ohio history with us on the Land of Grant Trail. This 17-site trail takes visitors back in time and revisit many of Grant’s adventures as a young boy to his time as a military officer and president.
PLAN YOUR VISIT PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR HOUSE 219 N. Paul Laurence Dunbar St. Dayton 45402 800.860.0148 ohiohistory.org/dunbar
Trail
Check-in to all 17 stops along the trail and receive a certificate of completion. Scan to learn more!
35
1 Home of the Hands that Delivered Grant
2 Ross-Gowdy House Museum
3 Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace
4 Grant Memorial United Methodist Church
5 Ulysses S. Grant Memorial Bridge
6 White Oak Creek Cincinnati
17
Batavia
7 Old Georgetown
OH
16 275
Cemetery
8 Ulysses S. Grant’s
32
Boyhood Home
Williamsburg
125
9 Jesse Grant’s
52
15
Georgetown Tannery
ite
re
ek
68
1 2
Wh
Bethel
14 13
New Richmond
Oak C
10 Ulysses S. Grant Schoolhouse
11 US Grant Native Son Statue
12 Confidence Cemetery 125
GRANT MEMORIAL CHURCH
3
KY
13 Jesse and Hannah
4
Grant’s Bethel Home
Ulysses S. Grant
5 Point Pleasant
Georgetown 7
6 221
52
Oh
io River
12 11 10 8
9
14 Bethel Historical Society and Museum
15 Old Bethel Church and Cemetery
16 Clermont County Historical Society and the Harmony Hill Dairy House Museum
17 Clermont County Courthouse
36
37
Start your day off right in Miami County and immerse yourself in the world of Winans Chocolates + Coffees. Just the mention of the name Winans makes people imagine the heavenly chocolate melting in their mouths or think of the wonderful aroma of fresh roasted coffees. Winans has been in the candy business since 1961. The family has been in the baking and confectionary business since the early 1900s and is in its 4th generation of family ownership. Once you have your coffee and sweets, have your picture taken by the museum or on the canal boat at Johnston Farm & Indian Agency.
Make a Day Trip to
JOHNSTON FARM & INDIAN AGENCY in Miami County 38
Johnston Farm and Indian Agency is home to the General Harrison replica canal boat, the Historic Johnston Home (from the 1800s) and the Woodland Indian and Canal Museum. There is a 19th century two-story historic brick home of Col. John Johnston, former US Indian agent and canal commissioner. Costumed interpreters and craft demonstrators provide tours through this preserved and furnished home, the cider house and a unique two-story spring house which holds a loom. Visitors can take a canal boat ride on a one-mile rewatered section of the Miami-Erie Canal. The Generation Harrison is a replica of a nineteenth-century mixed-cargo canal boat of the 1840-1850 era, representative of the main transportation utilized by farmers to transport their produce to market prior to the time when railroads began to fill that role.
At the Historical Indian and Canal Museum, hear about the lives with the earliest settlers to Southwest Ohio. The museum is open April through October. Restrooms are located inside the museum. Guided tours available. Allow several hours to enjoy lunch and visit all that there is to see at Johnston Farm.
MORE TO EXPLORE If you’re eager for more outdoor adventures, visit Stillwater Prairie Reserve, situated along the scenic Stillwater River. You’ll have no problem finding the perfect photo opportunity in this 260 acre area. A circular hiking trail with segments following the river also passes through fields, woodlands, marshy habitats and shrub lands. There are three man made ponds and the Stillwater River provides fishing opportunities for visitors. Diverse topography and vegetation make this a perfect place for hiking, bird watching and photography.
LOOKING FOR MORE WAYS TO CAPTURE MEMORIES IN MIAMI COUNTY? Visit homegrowngreat.com or scan the QR code above.
Costumed boat guides and interpreters direct the mule-drawn boat to provide an authentic and memorable experience for all (holds up to 80 passengers). This unique historical area enables you and your family to experience the joys of this former method of transportation.
39
National Road & Zane Grey Museum
*
30 mins.
*
1+ hrs.
*
1+ hrs.
*
1+ hrs.
1 hr.
IG BOTTOM MEMORIAL PARK B 2741 State Route 266, Stockport 43787 800.860.0143 • ohiohistory.org/bigbottom BUCKEYE FURNACE 123 Buckeye Park Rd., Wellston 45692 800.860.0144 • ohiohistory.org/buckeyefurnace Our House Tavern
Campus Martius Museum John & Annie Glenn Museum
5
UFFINGTON ISLAND BATTLEFIELD B MEMORIAL PARK 56890 Ohio River Scenic Byway, Portland 45770 866.363.2652 • ohiohistory.org/buffingtonisland
1.5
AMPUS MARTIUS MUSEUM C 601 Second St., Marietta 45750 800.860.0145 • ohiohistory.org/campusmartius
2
OHN & ANNIE GLENN MUSEUM J 72 W. Main St., New Concord 43762 740.826.3305 • ohiohistory.org/glennmuseum
1
EO PETROGLYPHS & NATURE PRESERVE L 400 Park Rd., Ray 45672 800.860.0144 • ohiohistory.org/leopetroglyph
*
0.5
ATIONAL ROAD & ZANE GREY MUSEUM N 8850 East Pike, Norwich 43767 800.752.2602 • ohiohistory.org/zanegrey
HIO RIVER MUSEUM O 601 Front St., Marietta 45750 800.860.0145 • ohiohistory.org/ohioriver
UR HOUSE TAVERN O 432 First Ave., Gallipolis 45631 800.752.2618 • ohiohistory.org/ourhouse
2
*
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
1+ hrs.
1 hr.
Over the course of our Ohio history adventures, our love and pride for the State of Ohio have grown exponentially, as well as our passion for history. We have loved every trip we have taken. – Brandon & Alyssa Y., Dayton, OH
40
Buckeye Furnace
Ave rage Visit
SOUTHEAST
Picn ickin g (*s helt er) Rest room s
Visit our
Mus eum /Vis itor Cen Hist ter oric Buil Ope d n to ings Pub lic Mou nds/ Eart hwo Mon rks ume nt/G rave site Natu ral A rea/ Trail s (m Gift iles) Sho p
SOUTHEAST
Ohio River Museum
This would be more than just a small weekend trip as some of these spots were over three hours away. That's when the real planning came in. I mapped out an itinerary that would see us leaving on Wednesday and returning on Sunday. Each of these trips would include us visiting two or three sites a day and staying in a different town every night. We took three of these trips that would have us traveling up most of the Ohio River and staying at all sorts of different camps, inns, lodges and cabins. Finally, on May 28, 2022 we visited our last stop, The Ohio History Center and Ohio Village. In just under three years, we had visited what seemed like the whole state of Ohio.
Visiting all
58 SITES!
On September 1st of 2019, my wife Lindsey, daughter Nora and myself were just setting off to visit a site we had been wanting to visit for some time, Serpent Mound. While we were there, we stumbled upon the Ohio History Connection's passport program. I threw the passport in my pack and when we got home we took a look through it. We decided it would be neat to try to visit all the sites and thought about how long it would take us—and if it was even possible! We just picked a date to complete it by, Nora's 12th birthday, February 27, 2026.
42
As you all know, later that year the whole world's plans got turned upside down as COVID-19 hit. We're a very active family, so I looked online at all the locations that were outside and safe to visit. It was then that we decided that during COVID, we were going to turn a negative into a positive and use our newly founded extra time to complete the passport program! We had one stipulation, Nora had to get her picture at every stop just to prove that we were there. We started off visiting all the locations that were open, outside and nearby. We live in Northwest Ohio, so there aren't many on the list that meet that criteria. After that, we would take small trips and visit a couple spots at a time on the weekends. Anytime we traveled in Ohio, we would look at the map and decide to take little detours to cross another location off the list. As time moved on, more and more of the inside locations were opening up and we backtracked to mark them off the list. Then it came time to try to visit the locations that were on the other side of the state.
It started off as just a fun idea but it turned out to be a great learning experience for our entire family...
It started off as just a fun idea but it turned out to be a great learning experience for our entire family. We had so much fun together while navigating through the pandemic, extreme weather, haunted hotels, aliens, getting lost (multiple times), Mothman, Bigfoot and so many other wild adventures! We learned a great deal about our state's history, trials and tribulations and the hope we have moving forward. I can leave this experience with a quote I saw while traveling, “Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show." And boy do we have a LOT of stories! Thanks for the memories Ohio History Connection, Adam, Lindsey and Nora Wisher
ROAD TRIP?
Bring Your Passport!
OVER 50 SITES INSIDE!
Ohio History Connecti on | PASSPO RT
Explore one of our 50+ sites, visit ohiohistory.org/passport or call 800.686.6124 today and order your copy!
1
43
A native of Zanesville, Ohio, Grey was born 150 years ago in 1872, when many Americans were still seeking their fortunes out west. He wrote more than 90 novels in his lifetime. Many of them are viewed as the forerunners of the Western genre in both literature and film. More than 100 movies were made based on his books, some produced by Grey himself. However, writing and filmmaking weren’t always his intended occupations. As a teenager, Grey was an excellent baseball player and won a baseball scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied dentistry. He opened a practice in New York after completing his education. However, Grey realized that he wasn’t happy and decided to leave dentistry behind and become a writer.
150 Ohio-Born
NOVELIST OF THE AMERICAN WEST
If you heard the name Zane Grey, you might not recognize it. However, if you like stories about the American frontier and the Wild West, you have him to thank.
44
He wrote his first novel, Betty Zane, in 1904, drawing inspiration from stories he’d heard about the Ohio frontier. However, he was unable to find a publisher. Undeterred, Grey continued writing and achieved his first success when Harper’s Magazine published The Heritage of the Desert in 1910. The publication of The Heritage of the Desert allowed Grey and his family to move to Altadena, California. Grey also had a hunting lodge in Arizona. Each year, he spent time traveling in the west and fishing in the Pacific, then returned home and spent time writing. Two years later, Harper’s published one of his most famous novels, Riders of the Purple Sage. The novel laid the groundwork for how people today view the Wild West: gunfights, cowboys, outlaws and more. At the National Road & Zane Grey Museum in Norwich, Ohio (15 minutes east of Zanesville, just off I-70), you can see a great collection of his memorabilia, including original manuscripts and a recreation of his study in Altadena, where he wrote many of his books. Artifacts
from the Grey family on display chronicle Zane’s life of adventure. A novelist, semi-pro baseball player, photographer, hunter, cartoonist, filmmaker and big game fisherman, he carried his readers on exciting journeys. They, in turn, made him America’s first millionaire author, with book sales exceeding $40 million. Grey passed away unexpectedly in 1939 at the age of 67 from a heart attack. Even after his death, his publishers continued printing his work. His most recent book, Tales of Florida Fishes, compiles various articles he had written about his time in the Everglades and was published in 2016, more than 75 years after his death. A major force in shaping how many people view the Wild West, his legacy continues to have an impact on the Western genre and the idea of the American Spirit.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ZANE GREY AT THE NATIONAL ROAD & ZANE GREY MUSEUM visit ohiohistory.org/zanegrey or scan the QR code above.
PLAN YOUR VISIT NATIONAL ROAD & ZANE GREY MUSEUM 8850 East Pike Norwich 43767 800.752.2602 ohiohistory.org/zanegrey
45
Make a Day Trip to
NATIONAL ROAD & ZANE GREY MUSEUM in Guernsey County Want to learn more about Zane Grey? Stop by the National Road & Zane Grey Museum! This museum is a “three for one” stop with three unique displays retelling national and regional history. In addition to hearing about locally born author, Zane Grey, you will also learn about our country’s first federally funded highway and see the display of locally produced art and ceramic pottery.
MORE TO EXPLORE There’s so much to see and do in the area. While you are visit the museum, make a short seven minute trip up East I-70 to visit the boyhood home of the late John Glenn, astronaut and U.S. Senator, and experience 20th Century American History. The John & Annie Glenn Museum offers a captivating living history experience. Read more about the new artifacts that our curators exhibited on page 28!
46
If you’re looking for more wildlife, spend the afternoon at The Wilds. Only 25 minutes south of the National Road & Zane Grey Museum, this safari park and conservation center combines conservation science and education programs. Home to rare and endangered species from around the world, The Wilds takes you up close and personal in an open-air safari to see and learn about the animals living in open-range habitats.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO SAY AND EAT IN THE AREA visit visitguernseycounty.com or scan the QR code above.
47
A group of eight ceremonial earthworks associated with Ohio’s ancient American Indian Hopewell culture is being considered for addition to the World Heritage List maintained by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The list encourages protection of cultural and national treasures including more than 1,000 places around the world like the Pyramids of Giza, Great Wall of China and Stonehenge. Lucky for you, you don’t have to travel far to visit Ohio’s American Indian sites—they’re just a few minutes to a few hours away.
Discover Ohio’s
HOPEWELL CEREMONIAL EARTHWORKS 48
Spread over more than 100 miles, Ohio’s Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks were built over a period of roughly 400 years starting about 2,000 years ago. The American Indians who built them used precise, consistent measurements and techniques. Many align with the solstices and/or the 18.6-year cycle of the moon. The ceremonial importance of the earthworks is evidenced by below-ground remains of large timber structures and by the elaborate ritual objects that were left within them.
NEWARK EARTHWORKS About 45 minutes east of Columbus in Heath and Newark, are the Great Circle Earthworks and the Octagon Earthworks, two components of the Newark Earthworks, the world’s largest set of geometric earthen enclosures and a feat of ancient engineering and construction. At Great Circle Earthworks, explore a museum sharing the story of the American Indians who built this enormous complex and conceived its alignments.
HOPEWELL CULTURE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK In the Chillicothe area about one hour south of Columbus, Hopewell Culture National Historical Park encompasses five of the nominated sites: Mound City Group, the only complex that has been fully restored, has earthen walls three to four feet high that enclose at least two dozen mounds in an area larger than 10 football fields. Beautiful objects made of exotic materials found here indicate that the earthwork builders had an extensive trade and travel network. In the park’s visitor center, see exhibits sharing the story of the ancient American Indians of this region. Across the Scioto River from Mound City, Hopeton Earthworks includes a 20-acre circle, 20-acre square, two small circles and parallel walls on a 292-acre site. Gradually plowed down over many years, the earthworks remain visible today as gentle rises in the ground. The National Park Services carefully manages the vegetation to outline the original size of the earthworks. See them from an overlook and explore the grounds on foot on trails. About 20 minutes southwest of Chillicothe, Seip Earthworks, a geometric wonder, once had over two miles of earthen walls enclosing more than 120 acres in the shape of two circles and a 27-acre square, with astronomical alignments. Visit the restored earthen mound that’s over 30 feet high in the center of the earthworks. Seven miles northwest of Chillicothe, Hopewell Mound Group occupies about 130 acres and once featured what is thought to be the largest Hopewell mound ever built. Carefully crafted works of art were buried here in astounding quantities as part of elaborate ceremonies. Hike trails in and around the site to learn about it.
49
Photo: NPS Tom Engberg
Closed to visitors, High Bank Works comprises multiple earthen features over 197 acres, offering insights into the lives of the people who built and gathered within these earthworks. A circle and octagon each measuring 1,000 feet in diameter are major features of this site. Learn more about visiting Hopewell Culture National Historical Park at nps.gov/hocu.
50
FORT ANCIENT EARTHWORKS & NATURE PRESERVE Just off I-71 about 45 minutes northeast of Cincinnati, near Lebanon and Oregonia, is Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve, a vast earthen enclosure on a wooded bluff overlooking the Little Miami River. Walk the perimeter of the earthworks and explore a museum with exhibits about the Ancestors who built Fort Ancient about 2,000 years ago.
VISIT
LEARN
EXPLORE
Learn more about visiting these amazing 2,000-year-old places and others right in our own backyard at ancientohiotrail.org.
Find more about the proposed World Heritage nomination at worldheritageohio.org.
Learn more about UNESCO’s World Heritage List and explore sites already on it at whc.unesco.org/en/list/.
51
Discover it all with an Ohio History Connection Membership-Your Personal Passport to History! Membership has its advantages: • Admission to our 50+ sites and museums around Ohio • One-year subscription to Echoes Magazine • Discounts on merchandise, programs and select special events With options starting as low as $45, your membership pays for itself in as little as two visits. For more information or to join today, visit ohiohistory.org/jointravel!