Tag Archives: Greenville

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of May

 

Bear’s Mill, Greenville’s Historic Grist Mill

Sitting on 35 acres, historic Bear’s Mill is one of the last gristmills available in the state of Ohio. Providing flour since 1849, this water-powered stone grinder continues to make stoneground flour.  The mill offers self-guided tours, seasonal celebrations, and local art.

Listed on the National Register of Historical Places, visitors can learn about the workings of a water-powered mill.  Built by German immigrant Gabriel Baer, the location is rich with history.  Interestingly, the name of Gabriel was documented as Bear, translated in error when he arrived to the United States.

Built using American Black Walnut siding, the interior beams range from 12 x 16 and 50’ long in one continuous piece.  The site of the mill was granted to Major George Adams by President James Monroe in 1824.  In 2001, the siding was restored to its original condition with the help of the Friends of Bears Mill, a non-profit organization. .

Entering the mill on the first floor, there is a small shop that offers flour produced by the mill as well as local products and kitchenware.

In an adjacent room on the first floor is an additional shop that displays local artwork available for purchase.  While there is a permanent collection of pottery created by the miller’s wife, every six weeks, the mill hosts a rotating art exhibit on the final Friday of the month to Monday.  Visitors can also meet the artist and purchase their work through the gallery.

Starting at the base of the stairs of the first floor, I began my self-guided tour of Bear’s Mill.  While the tour begins on the fourth floor, the first floor is also the where the production of flour begins.

The local farmer would pull up to the entrance with his sacks of grain, ringing the bell to alert the miller.  The miller would lower a rope so that the farmer could send his bags up to the miller on the fourth floor.

Weighing in at 100 pounds each, it was much easier for the miller to use a winch and pulley system to bring in the grain to the fourth floor.  As a gravity fed mill, the process of producing flour starts at the top and proceeds downward.

Once the grain has been hoisted to the top floor, it is put into a hole in the floor and stored in bins until the grain is ready to be cleaned.  During the cleaning of the grain, the kernels will travel up and down the mill through the elevators five times before the process has been completed.

The cleaning process includes the shaking of the grain through screens so that the larger pieces such as cobs, kernels, leaves, etc. are removed.  This process is conducted twice until the remains are dropped into a cylinder traveling to the first floor and ready for the next step.

The cleaning process continues as dust and smut are removed from the grain. Once again, the pieces of grain will end up on the first floor but must be moved to the fourth floor so that the grain will be blown by an aspirator so that remaining dust and dirt is removed.  Once the grain travels back down to the first floor, it will be brought up to the third floor where the milling process will continue.

In preparation of the milling process, the buckwheat, corn and wheat is stored in bins on the third floor. This floor was also a great place for the farmer to wait until the flour had been ground.  Here they would sell other produce they brought along, catch up on local gossip or play games such as checkers or cards.

The milling process begins when the grain is put into chutes channeling the grain towards the hopper located over the buhr stones.

Browsing the third floor, there are some interesting items to include the scale which could weigh up to six hundred pounds of grain, elevator legs and the buhr stones.  I enjoyed browsing the authentic Darke County Fair posters as well as the sale bills that displayed the livestock and produce the locals would have been selling.

The French buhr were the most sought after millstones due to their abrasive and porous qualities as the result was a slow grinding process.  Have you ever heard the old adage, “Keeping Your Nose to the Grindstone?”  During the grinding process, the miller would need to keep watch over the grindstones to ensure that they did not overheat, causing an offensive burning smell.

The buhr stones on display at Bear’s Mill were the original stones that Gabriel Baer imported in 1848 talking two years to eventually reach the United States. Costing $6000 in the mid-1800s, this would be equivalent to about $140,000 today.

Bear’s Mill did not utilize the typical water wheel system but rather used turbines which was a more modern technology of this time. The turbines are approximately 10 feet below the water, working just as they had over 150 years ago.

Exploring Bear’s Mill was such an amazing history lesson and insight into the technology of grain making in the mid-1800s.  I was happy that the mill continues to produce various flours and sells it on-site with additional gourmet foods.

Have you visited Bear’s Mill in Greenville?  What did you think of the flour-making process?  Did you purchase any items from the store?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my day trip to Bear’s Mill and wishing you many Happy Travels!

UPDATE:  Check out bonus information below!

What to See and What to Do:

Bear’s Mill
6450 Arcanum – Bear’s Mill Road
Greenville, OH  45331
937 548 5112

  • Admission Fee:  There is no admission fee, but donations are welcome.
  • Hours:  The mill is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10AM to 4PM;  Thursday thru Saturday from 11AM to 5PM and Sunday 1PM to 5PM.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:   Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.  Look for albino squirrels at this park.

Where to Stay: 

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

Where to Eat: 

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone:  937 459 4405

Where to Drink: 

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

On a second visit to Bear’s Mill, I learned that there is a scenic walking path that leads towards the back of the mill.  Here are some photos from the trail.

 

Voted Best in Ohio! The Winery at Versailles

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Surrounded by cornfields in all directions, a white modest barn houses one of the largest producers of wine in the state of Ohio, The Winery at Versailles, the home of Rodeo Red.

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Stepping inside the winery, the gorgeous, Italian farm setting is accented with oak barrels and high ceilings.  The tasting room is beautifully laid out with bottles of wine and accessories displayed along the perimeter.  The open-style, tasting room has exposed beams, rustic posts and several round tables covered in black table cloths.

With a history connected to Annie Oakley, this winery has over twenty-five wines available for tasting.

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A young attendant provided me with a tasting menu and explained that their tastings are five one ounce samples or two ounces which also included a complimentary wine glass.  The wide range of wines made my decision difficult, but I decided on a diverse selection of red and white, both dry and sweet.

I submitted my list which included the Merlot, the Darke Red, Peach Mist, Rodeo Red and the Schwaartzbeeran.  Within a few moments my plastic tray arrived with the wines arranged from dry to sweet, starting with the Merlot.

Deep red and rich in color, this wine had a very robust body with a hint of oak.  I imagined it would be spectacular with a juicy steak or roast.  The cost of this wine is $15.99 per bottle.

Darke Red, named after the county from where it was produced, is a chilled red wine and I find it exceptionally refreshing.  It is a semi-dry wine and is a “blend of Chambourcin, Chancellor and Foch (grapes) to create a rich, fruity and hearty bramble-berry and textured oak flavor”.  The cost of this wine goes for $9.99 per bottle.

The Peach Mist was one of my favorite surprises on the wine list.  It was tart, but had an elegant taste, similar to a sweet tart or a Smarties candy.  “Well ripened juicy peaches give this sparkling wine a sweet yet soft and refreshing finish.  Perfect when chilled ice cold on a hot summer day!  Makes a fantastic peach Mimosa!”  $13.50

Rodeo Red:   This is an “all-time best seller here at the winery. Made from a blend of Concord and Niagara, this is the ultimate party wine.  One of our “Celebration of Country Life” series.”  Personally, all I can taste is fabulous grape juice.

Schwartzbeeren is one of The Winery of Versailles’ dessert wines and after having read the description, I had to try it.   “What can you say about a wine that tastes like blackberry pie in a glass? Made from 100% blackberries, this dessert wine can be warmed, poured over ice cream, or served just as a dessert itself.” IMG_9214

Nothing makes me happier than learning that a business gives back to its community.  I noticed in the list of wines, there are specific selections where proceeds are given to support some of the local charities.  The new Freedom wine is “a sweet white late harvest Riesling blend with notes of tropical fruit and a rich honey finish”.  This wine was named in honor of those men and women who have dedicated their lives and service to our country.  A $2 donation will be set aside for each sale of Freedom and donated to an incredible organization, Honor Flight – Dayton.  This non-profit group is dedicated to helping WWII, Korean and Vietnam war veterans and terminally ill veterans visit their national monuments in Washington DC.

A donation of $2 per bottle of Hope Whispers, a Riesling style wine with a soft pink hue, will be donated to Wayne Health Care Cancer Center in Greenville in support for breast cancer. This bottle sells for $14.99.

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I was elated when I learned that Carlena Sneed, events coordinator for The Winery at Versailles, had a few moments to chat about the winery.  She is a cheerful, enthusiastic young lady with a personality that lights up the room.  She provided me with a brief overview of the winery’s operations, the events that they host and how much she loves working for Mike and Carol Williams, the owners.

Not familiar with the wine season, I wanted to know when Ohio grapes are harvested.  I learned that the vineyards are at their peak in August or September and then shortly thereafter they are ready for reaping.   Since most of the grapes for their wines are grown here, they can produce about 100,000 bottles in the course of one year.  They also supply bulk juice for close to 70 wineries in the United States. Carlena mentioned that they grow the Steuben grapes that taste just like cotton candy off of the vine.

The winery hosts several events over the year.  In the spring the winery sponsors an Adult Easter Egg Hunt, where there is music, wine, random prizes and items for auction.   During the fall season, there is the annual Sips and Sounds event, full of wine and music.  Each weekend during the summer, the Winery at Versailles holds their Thrill to Grill restaurant style meal which includes a selection of one of five meats for grilling, potatoes, vegetables and a dessert for $60 per couple.  This also includes a bottle of one of the winery’s many delicious wines.

There is so much to love about the Winery at Versailles, and besides the wine, I admire the owners, Mike and Carol Williams for their strong sense of family.  After their daughter moved to Ohio, the Williams’ moved from Wilcox, Pennsylvania to be closer to her and their grandchildren.  They were excited to open another successful winery which brought them to their current location in Versailles, a property once owned by the aunt of Annie Oakley.

The names of some of the wines are drawn upon a horse theme or are named after one of their children or grandchildren.  I was drawn to the Lucia wine, named after their granddaughter, bottled in an elegantly twisted glass container.  The cute pink label is bejeweled and is perfectly designed to represent breast cancer survivors.

It is no surprise that The Winery at Versailles was voted as one of Ohio’s Best in 2016. Their wines are fabulous, the location is beautiful and the staff are outstanding.  And if having one winery was not enough, Mike and Carol will be keeping busy this summer as they open The Winery at Hunter’s Valley, their newest location in Liverpool, Pennsylvania.  Although the winery itself is smaller, it sits on 120 acres of vineyards along the Sesquahanah River.  A four and a half hour drive from Pittsburgh, the property provides million dollar views of the river, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains.   As the Williams family continue to put their faith in God above all else, treat their employees like one of their own and generously give back to their community, it certainly has proven to bring them success.

If you have had the opportunity to visit The Winery of Versailles, I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Winery at Versailles
6572 OH State Route 47
Versailles, Ohio  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3232

  • Hours: The winery is open from 10 AM to 6 PM on Monday through Wednesday and from 10 AM to 8 PM on Thursday and from 10 AM to 9 PM on Friday and Saturday.  The winery is closed on Sunday.  Hours are seasonal and are subject to change.  Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and schedule of events.
  • Amenities:  Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, outdoor seating, online shopping, wine, private events and scheduled events
  • Tips for Your Visit:  During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings may not be available.  As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

Where to Eat:

Michael Anthony’s at The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

I have visited Michael Anthony’s several times and cannot bear to order anything else but the Fettuccine Della Casa, the house pasta cooked with crispy bacon, peas, Parmesan cheese and cream. The portion size is extremely generous and I have been known to eat the whole dish in one seating or save it for a couple more days for leftovers.

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The Garst Museum – Currier & Ives

I remember the first time I set eyes on a Currier & Ives print was in Mrs. Hallum’s room at the Masonic Home.  My mother was a pharmacy tech at the retirement center and so my sister and I would visit the sweet elderly residents on occasion.  I was only six at the time but the artwork had made such an impression on me.

I suppose the shock could be attributed to the print’s graphic nature.  The lithograph was titled The Assassination of President Lincoln at Ford’s Theater.   I remembered seeing the cloud of powder exiting the gun and remembered how close the gun was to the President.  I had always wondered why it was displayed in her room to view each day.

Fast forward a few years and I remember seeing Currier & Ives maps from New York City, Philadelphia and New Orleans on display in a law office where I worked.  I loved the historical prints showing the earlier times of a big city. long before they had been established and the everyday lives of Americans during a time when life was more simple and carefree.

On a recent visit to The Garst Museum in Greenville, Ohio, I happened to notice a small display of Currier & Ives lithographs and learned more about the company.  Nathanial Currier began his career as a successful printer and James Merritt Ives a  self-trained artist before they partnered together in 1857.

While I enjoyed the beautiful scenes of upstate New York, my favorite print was that of the death of George Washington.  Another historical piece, it was created in 1799.

Nathanial and James left their business to their sons who continued until 1907.  In total, the company designed 7500 different titles and printed over 1 million prints.  The company took a backseat to printing presses until the 1920s when the prints became popular again.  Many of the scenes are beautiful depictions of everyday life and spectacular scenes and are incredible collector’s items even today.

Have you heard of Currier & Ives or seen one of their original prints?  I would love to hear if you have visited The Garst Museum to see these prints as well and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Garst Museum
205 North Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone: 937 548 5250

  • Admission: $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $9 for youth, $9 for Darke County Genealogy Society Members, Free for children aged 5 and below and for DCHS Members
  • Hours:  Tuesday – Saturday from 10AM to 4PM & Sunday from 1PM to 4PM, Closed Mondays, Major Holidays and the Month of January
  • Amenities:  Historical exhibits, educational exhibits, research center, historic figures, museum store and special events
  • Tips: Allow yourself plenty of time to visit each of the exhibits and wear comfortable shoes.

Where to Stay: 

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

Where to Eat: 

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone:  937 459 4405

Pig candy and the Monte Cristo sandwich….absolutely amazing!

Where to Drink: 

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

What to Read:

  • The Treaty of Green Ville, by Frazer Els Wilson
  • Indians Timeless Tales, by Paul Wonning
  • Life and Legacy of Annie Oakley, by Glenda Riley
  • Currier & Ives Printmakers to the American People, by Currier & Ives
  • The Great Book of Currier & Ives, by Walton H. Rawls

The Garst Museum and a Look at Home Life in the mid-1900s

The Garst Museum exhibits an American collection of nostalgic household items. which would have been found in early homes of the 1900s.   Many of these items were gifted to the museum from various family collections.  While some of these items may be familiar to many, there are also items that are no longer in use or have been replaced by modern inventions.

The formal dining room was once a separate space where families would gather together to enjoy an evening meal.  Our family also celebrated birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions in our dining room creating long-lasting memories. This room was one of our favorite places in the house.  The table was built by my father and a matching hutch was placed up against the wall.  Light floral wallpaper decorated the wall with a window that looked out into the cornfields behind our backyard.

The style of the Garst Museum dining room reminded me of our grandparents’ dining room with an area rug, chandelier and multiple windows.

While our home did not have a formal children’s playroom, our basement was where most of our toys, games and electronics were stored.  As we grew older, there was a television, couch and desk that was built up against the wall.

The Garst Museum children’s playroom seemed to have been built for an upper middleclass family.  The items within the room included a China tea set, China dolls and a baby buggy.

Our family owned a three-bedroom, one bath bi-level home with a garage.  My sister and I shared a bedroom where we each had a bed and our own dresser and my brother had his own room as well.  My youngest sister arrived while I was a freshman at Bible College, so they created a bedroom in the basement for my brother when I moved back home over the summer. My parents’ room was not much bigger than our rooms and was modestly decorated.

At the Garst Museum, the bedroom predated indoor plumbing and heating.  Modestly decorated, the early bedrooms were decorated with trundle beds (a bed that could be pulled out from the main bed) and chamber pots (in place of a bathroom for nighttime emergencies).  Many family members in the early 1900s would have slept in the same room.

It wasn’t until my mid-20’s that I had learned the purpose of a parlor.  Staying with a friend in Illinois, their family home had a separate living space which they referred to their parlor, decorated with formal furniture and a fireplace.  Noticing the bay window with additional storage, I learned that the original use for this room was to hold wakes for family members who had passed.  Today, many older homes with parlors have been converted into offices or playrooms.

The kitchen was my favorite display with antique appliances and gadgets.  Our family had the same blue and white checkered tablecloth and I clearly remembered my grandparents’ hutch in the dining room, displaying their white and brown dishes.  The exhibit was a great representation of an early open-style kitchen.

The displays began to move forward in time with more modern furnishings.  Canopy beds and colorful rugs had replaced the trundle beds and wooden floors from previous decades.  French-style furniture was adorned with elaborate pulls and small electric lighting replaced tapered candles.

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello home is credited for creating the formal dining room.  Largely used for entertaining, many American homes followed the tradition including a room set apart for large gatherings.  Large dining tables were equipped with extensions to expand for additional guests.  The buffet was added to set out side dishes while the hutch displayed the beautiful China dishes.

While many homes have kept the traditional, formal-style dining room, there seems to be a shift in the home design. With an open floor plan to include a large kitchen and an island that extends to the family/living room, the space has become the main focal point of the home.  Additional features may include large walk-in pantries, upscale appliances and of course, wine refrigerators, but the importance of the family home and its design remain ever changing.

Have you visited the “Family Life” exhibit at the Garst Museum in Greenville?  Do you remember some of the items on display? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Garst Museum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Garst Museum
205 North Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone: 937 548 5250

  • Admission: $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $9 for youth, $9 for Darke County Genealogy Society Members, Free for children aged 5 and below and for DCHS Members
  • Hours:  Tuesday – Saturday from 10AM to 4PM & Sunday from 1PM to 4PM, Closed Mondays, Major Holidays and the Month of January
  • Amenities:  Historical exhibits, educational exhibits, research center, historic figures, museum store and special events
  • Tips: Allow yourself plenty of time to visit each of the exhibits and wear comfortable shoes.

Where to Stay: 

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

Where to Eat: 

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone:  937 459 4405

Pig candy and the Monte Cristo sandwich….absolutely amazing!

Where to Drink: 

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

What to Read:

  • Annie Oakley, by Charles J. Shields
  • Annie Oakley:  A Captivating Guide to an American Sharpshooter Who Later Became a Wild West Folk Hero, by Captivating History
  • Life and Legacy of Annie Oakley, by Glenda Riley

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Garst Museum and Greenville’s Early Beginnings

As I entered the Garst Museum, it was eerily quiet as I passed through the threshold of a beautifully restored campus house.  A table stood in the entryway with several flyers and maps to assist me with touring the galleries.  To the left I began my exploration of Greenville’s history titled “Crossroads of Destiny” and found several materials pertaining to this venue.

Starting with the Paleo period are remains of prehistoric animals that once roamed this area of Darke County.  On display are several bones and teeth of a Mastodon and Wooly Mastodon which were hunted by the Paleo Indians between 6,000 and 13,000 BC.

In addition to the animal finds are arrowheads dating back to the Paleo and Archaic Periods.  Used for hunting and spearing fish, the Indians gradually improved their weapons and tools to include chisels and axes.

By the early 1600s, the English made their way to the New World and settled along the East Coast.  In hopes of more opportunities, they began to move west, encroaching on Indian Territory.    Fighting broke out between the Indians and the European Americans which eventually led to the 1795 Treaty of Green Ville.  The “treaty of peace” included a cease fire between the Indians and Americans, provided compensation to the Indians in exchange for land that included two-thirds of southeast Ohio.

Additional treaties were signed and eventually the Indians were forced to settle in the West.  At this point, Tecumseh, a Shawnee Indian from modern-day Columbus, Ohio was determined to fight against the loss of their land by the Americans, but his efforts failed.  Eventually, Tecumseh joined the new Americans and fought in the War of 1812, where he died in October of 1813.   The story of his life is depicted in an outdoor drama titled, “Tecumseh” which is performed during the summer months in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Growing up about an hour east of Greenville, I was familiar with the historic figures from the area such as Blue Jacket and Simon Kenton.  Blue Jacket was a Shawnee War Chief who fought against American settlers who were in pursuit of the Indian’s land.  He was defeated in 1794 during the Battle of Fallen Timbers which resulted in his signing the Treaty of Greenville in 1795, ceding to the settlers.  Each year, the city of Xenia hosts performances of the outdoor drama ,”Blue Jacket” in a gorgeous, scenic amphitheater in remembrance of this local celebrity.

Simon Kenton was also a key figure as a frontiersman who was a friend of Daniel Boone. Kenton also fought alongside George Rogers Clark during the Revolution.  Kenton was kidnapped by the Shawnee Indians on several occasions.  Impressing the Shawnee by his ability to escape, he was eventually adopted by the Shawnee as they lived harmoniously in what is known today as Champaign County.  He is buried in Urbana.

Today, Greenville is known for its farming of corn and soybean.  Visitors can take a step back in time to visit Bear’s Mill, a working gristmill that sells freshly ground flour in their gift shop.    Greenville’s Main Street is a great way to spend the afternoon with a visit to the Anna Bier Gallery displaying the artwork of local artists.  My favorite stop is the KitchenAid experience to browse the latest KitchenAid mixers and gadgets for sale.  In addition, the store houses a museum that shows the evolution of the KitchenAid mixer since 1941.   The Merchant House is a highly recommended stop for lunch or dinner or venture to nearby Versailles for a local winery experience and its charming downtown.

From its humble beginnings to its modern day advancement in kitchen appliances, Greenville is an incredible historic stop and one of America’s greatest examples of Main Street, America.

Have you visited Greenville?  What activities and restaurants did you decide to visit?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my lovely afternoon in Greenville and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Garst Museum
205 North Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone: 937 548 5250

  • Admission: $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $9 for youth, $9 for Darke County Genealogy Society Members, Free for children aged 5 and below and for DCHS Members
  • Hours:  Tuesday – Saturday from 10AM to 4PM & Sunday from 1PM to 4PM, Closed Mondays, Major Holidays and the Month of January
  • Amenities:  Historical exhibits, educational exhibits, research center, historic figures, museum store and special events
  • Tips: Allow yourself plenty of time to visit each of the exhibits and wear comfortable shoes.

Where to Stay: 

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

Where to Eat: 

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone:  937 459 4405

Pig candy and the Monte Cristo sandwich….absolutely amazing!

Where to Drink: 

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

What to Read:

  • Annie Oakley, by Charles J. Shields
  • Annie Oakley:  A Captivating Guide to an American Sharpshooter Who Later Became a Wild West Folk Hero, by Captivating History
  • Life and Legacy of Annie Oakley, by Glenda Riley

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • step back into timw
  • historical destination with over 300,000 artifacts on display over 35,000 square feet of exhibit space within six building wings
  • Major Exhibit Venues include:
    • Crossroads of Destiny:  The story of General Anthony Wayne, Little Turtle
    • Lowell Thomas – pioneer broadcaster
    • Military History – 1812 to War in Iran
    • Commander Zachary Landsdowne – Captain of the Navy Airship USS Shenandoah and early advocate of military air power
    • Early Pioneers & Period American Furnishings
    • Early Village Settlement Shops
    • Currier & Ives Collection
    • Darke County Research Center

Garst Museum in Greenville, Ohio – The National Annie Oakley Center

 Visiting the Winery at Versailles in Ohio, I was surprised to learn that Annie Oakley was from nearby Greenville.  The winery was once home to her aunt and Annie would visit over the summer.  I decided to take a mini-field trip to check out Greenville and learn more about the little girl they nicknamed “Little Sure Shot”.  Not only was there a statue of the famous sharpshooter, but an exhibit venue dedicated to her at The Garst Museum.

Born on August 13, 1860, Annie Moses was the fifth daughter of Jacob and Susan Moses and grew up a poor country girl.  When her father and stepfather died, she learned to shoot game to feed the family at a young age.  No one knows how she was named Annie Oakley but some say it was the surname of the man that helped her escape her difficult life while others claim she took the name from a suburb of Cincinnati.

By the time Annie was 10 years old, the Darke County Fair had become a major local event and it was probable that she had attended and could have even competed in the shooting competitions.

By the time Annie was 16, she had met and married Frank Butler, who was also a professional marksman.  Frank was 10 years older than Annie and was born in Ireland.  Annie met him on a visit to see her sister who had moved to nearby Cincinnati.  During their meeting,  Frank was immediately smitten with her while Annie fell for his poodle named George.

In 1885 Annie joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show, a theatrical production which demonstrated various reenactments that included Cowboy and Indian scenarios as well as sharpshooting.  Living her life out of a suitcase, Annie’s husband traveled with her and was also a performer in the show.

One attendee mentioned that she was a “small girl among the rough plainsmen.” standing at only five feet tall.   In 1890 she arrived in Paris to perform with the Wild West show and later headlined at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.  She was presented with many awards and pins that she wore while performing.  She was the first woman to become an international superstar.

Annie Oakley would eventually retire from the Wild West show and settle with her husband in Nutley, New Jersey and later in Cambridge, Maryland (known as the Annie Oakley House).  The couple did not have children, but were very fond of their adopted dog, Dave.

Annie Oakley “paved the way for women to ‘compete in a man’s world’ without compromising her integrity and femininity.”  It was her opinion that “every woman should know how to handle guns  as naturally as they know how to handle babies.”

In 1925, Annie’s health declined and was living in Greenville, Ohio with her sister, Emily.  At the age of 66, Annie died from complications with pneumonia on November 3, 1926. She is buried in Brock Cemetery near Greenville.

Annie’s story is one of success and tenacity.   Growing up with nothing, her hard work paid off resulting in her accomplishments and in becoming a role model for young girls to compete in sports.   Achieving awards and fame, she never forgot her humble beginnings.

Have you visited the Annie Oakley exhibit at the Garst Museum? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Greenville’s Garst Museum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Garst Museum
205 North Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone: 937 548 5250

  • Admission: $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $9 for youth, $9 for Darke County Genealogy Society Members, Free for children aged 5 and below and for DCHS Members
  • Hours:  Tuesday – Saturday from 10AM to 4PM & Sunday from 1PM to 4PM, Closed Mondays, Major Holidays and the Month of January
  • Amenities:  Historical exhibits, educational exhibits, research center, historic figures, museum store and special events
  • Tips: Allow yourself plenty of time to visit each of the exhibits and wear comfortable shoes.

Where to Stay: 

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

Where to Eat: 

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone:  937 459 4405

Pig candy and the Monte Cristo sandwich….absolutely amazing!

Where to Drink: 

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

What to Read:

  • Annie Oakley, by Charles J. Shields
  • Annie Oakley:  A Captivating Guide to an American Sharpshooter Who Later Became a Wild West Folk Hero, by Captivating History
  • Life and Legacy of Annie Oakley, by Glenda Riley

Sampling Some Redneck Love at Kennedy Vineyard, New Madison, OH

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Kennedy Vineyard was a welcome sight among the crops of corn and soybean of Darke County.    As I approached the graveled driveway leading to the winery, grapevines were loaded with juicy varietals most popular in the Ohio wine region.

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Having just opened for the afternoon, I entered the warm and welcoming winery with a casual and country style.  There was plenty of seating but that would not last for long. As I took my place at the tasting bar, I was greeted by winery co-owner, Louisa Kennedy.

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The large windows looking out into the vineyard provided stunning views of the DeChaunac grapes, planted over 10 years ago, by Barbara Kennedy, Louisa’s mother-in-law.   Fields of corn were converted to vineyards and after many years of producing wine, the winery opened over two years ago.  Additional varietals that thrive at Kennedy Vineyard are Chambourcin, Vidal, Cayuga, Concord, Steuben, Niagara and Catawba grapes.

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The first wine I sampled was Lone Cedar Red, described as “a well-balanced and full-bodied wine with notes of sweet cherry”.  Winning the 2015 Bronze Medal at the Finger Lakes Wine Competition, this wine was very smooth and beautiful in color.  Named after the sole cedar tree which stands on the property, it is perfectly paired with a steak or can be enjoyed as a casual drink after a long day at work.

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My next wine was “a semi-sweet wine full-bodied  with bold flavors of blackberry and lingering black cherry.”  Made with a blend including DeChaunac grapes, I enjoyed the wine’s subtle finish and beautiful label. I was not surprised to learn that it had won the 2015 Silver Medal Winner, Finger Lakes Wine Competition.

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One of the qualities that I admired about Kennedy Vineyard was their passion to give back to their community.  By purchasing their wine Resilient, proceeds from the sales are provided to help fund epilepsy research.  I learned from Louisa that the teens that were photographed for the label are from a local high school. Although these students were diagnosed with epilepsy, they were excited for the opportunity to bring awareness of their illness and to show that they can live healthy productive lives.

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While sampling the apple wine, Louisa explained their future plans to convert their barn into a processing room and to further expand the winery.   She has an intense passion for wine and she is currently pursuing a degree in viticulture.  Eager to share her knowledge and expertise, I enjoyed learning more about Kennedy Vineyards and the process of making wine.

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I was ready for my next sample, Kennedy’s Redneck Girl.  This is a beautifully colored blackberry wine which is one of their top sellers.   A “soft sweet wine with lots of character and soft notes of cherry and raspberry”, this wine was awarded the 2015 Silver Medal at the Finger Lakes Wine Competition.

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Louisa poured me a sample of Love at First White.  A chilled sweet wine, this “elegant sweet white blend with bold flavors of the Niagara grape” is perfect  for a hot summer day.

So what do you have when you combine Redneck Girl with Love at First White?  Redneck Love, a perfect wine combination.  I decided to purchase both bottles so I could enjoy these wines at home.

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Spending time with the Kennedys was a great way to enjoy my afternoon.  I was off to find a place for dinner when John recommended The Merchant House in Greenville.  He insisted I try the Pig Candy and mentioned that the restaurant had recently opened about a month ago.  Apparently it was already creating a local buzz, so I knew I had to check it out, but not without resisting the temptation to play with the winery’s adorable kittens one last time.

Have you visited Kennedy Vineyard and have a favorite wine that you would like to share?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing visit to Kennedy Vineyard and wishing you many Happy Travels. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

  • Hours: The winery is open from 6 PM to 9 PM on Friday and 2 PM to 9 PM on Saturday.  The winery is closed from Sunday thru Thursday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s Facebook page for any updates to its hours of operation and listing of events.
  • Amenities:  Weekend entertainment, wine tastings, wine club, wine baskets, wine, gift shop, private events and scheduled events
  • Tips for Your Visit:  During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available.  As always, please drink responsibly.

Find Kennedy Vineyard on Facebook and don’t forget, they can also ship wines directly to you as well!

Where to Stay:

Best Western Monroe Inn
40 New Garver Road
Monroe, OH  45050
Telephone:  513 539 4400

Where to Eat:

The Merchant House
406 S. Broadway Street
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone; 937 459 4405

Pig Candy is hands-down my favorite appetizer on the menu! Smoked, candied bacon, with cinnamon, sugar and unique blend of spices makes this selection a favorite of the restaurant’s patrons.  The Pig Candy BLT is also a popular offering, which includes the amazing appetizer on bread with lettuce and tomato.

For pizzas, I can’t get enough of the Detroiter and Cherry Margherita pies!

2019 Travel and Blog Schedule for The Suite Life of Travel

2019 will be my busiest travel year to date….and I can’t wait!  So many opportunities that I could not pass up, so they are booked and I am counting down the days!

Belize:    Port of Belize, Xunantunich, Scuba Diving

China:    Beijing, Tiananeman Square, Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City, tri-shaw rides, hutongs, Zhangjiajie (the land of Avatar), Tianzishan Ten Miles Natural Gallery highway, Bailong Elevator, Tianmen Mountains, Gui Gu Plank Road, Highway to Heaven, Tianmen Fairy Fox Show,  Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and the glass-bottom bridge, Baofeng Lake,  Chengdu,  Jinli Ancient Street, Qing Cheng Mountains, Dujiangyan Panda Valley, Panda Conservation,

Egypt:   Cairo, Giza Plateau and the Pyramids, the Sphinx and Valley Temple, Khufu Ship, Camel Rides, Cairo Museum, Khan El Khalili (Souk), Felucca Ride and Belly Dancing; Nile Cruise starting in Luxor, Luxor, Karnak Temple, Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Ramesses III, Dier El Madina,  the Locks of Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples, Aswan and the High Dam, Philae (the most beautiful temple in Egypt, Coptic Cairo, Sakkara and diving in Alexandria.

Honduras:   Port of Honduras, Altun Ha, Scuba Diving,

Israel:   Qumran,  Caesarea Maritima, The Dead Sea,  Masada, Mount Arbel, Capernaeum, Mount of Beatitudes, Church of the Fish and the Loaves, Sailing the Sea of Galilee, Cana, Nazareth, Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemene, Sepphoris, Mount Zion and the Upper Room, Jerusalem, David Center in Jerusalem, Southern Wall Excavations and the Teaching Steps, The Western Wall, Pool of Bethesda, The Via Dolorosa, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, The Temple Mount, The Garden Tomb, Ein Karem, Nebi Samuel, Valley of Elah

Mexico:  Cozumel, Cancun, Chitzen Itza, Tulum, Cenotes, Underwater Park

United States: 

California: Yosemite, Napa, John Muir State Park, Hearst Castle, San Francisco, Sausilito

United States: 

Connecticut:  East Haddam, Gillette Castle, Mystic, Hartford

United States: 

Michigan:  Upper Peninsula:  Soo Locks, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Pictured Rocks National Seashore

United States:

Ohio:  Cincinnati,  Bellefontaine, Dayton, Greenville, Yellow Springs, Ohio Wines

United States:

Louisiana:  New Orleans

What travel plans await you in 2019?  I would love to hear about them, so list your future adventures in the comments section below!  Wishing you an amazing 2019 and lots of Happy Travels!

Reflecting Back Over 2018 Travel and Blog Posts

What a great year for travel!  From conquering France to exploring the Wild West of the United States, it was a wonderful year of exploring 2 continents and 5 countries. There were past memories of travels gone by as well as discovering amazing sites in my own back yard! Here are some of my favorite photos from this years’ travel blogs and the amazing journeys I experienced in 2018!

Asia

Philippines

Naomi’s Heart Mission in the Philippines:  A Day of Travel 

Flying Into Hong Kong Before Reaching the Philippines

Caribbean

A Port Day in Dominica

The View of the Cruise Ship in Dominica

Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan:  Part 1

The Raices Fountain in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan:  Part 2

The Cementerio de San Juan

Raices Restaurant

Authentic Puerto Rican Costumes at Raices Restaurant

Sunny San Juan

My First Mofongo Experience

Europe

Italy:  Rome:  St Peter’s Facade

St. Peter and the Keys

Monaco:  A City of Wealth

The Wealth of Monaco

Monaco: The Port of Monaco

Strolling the Port of Monaco

Spain:  Barcelona and Its Architecture

La Sagrada Familia

Middle East

Israel

Bethlehem:  Shepherd’s Field

The Chapel of the Angels

Bethlehem:  The Church of the Nativity

The Altar of the Nativity

Turkey:  The Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace

United States

United States:  California

Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree

La Jolla Cove, California

+120312 La Jolla Cove Beach

Beautiful La Jolla Cove, California

+120312 Seals on the South End of La Jolla Cove

Seals at La Jolla Cove, California

A Day in Morro Bay

Visiting the Rock at Morro Bay

A Weekend in San Diego

The Coronado Hotel 

United States:  Connecticut

East Haddam

United States:  Georgia

Savannah

Strolling Through Savannah

United States: Maine

Acadia, Whale Watching and Visiting the Doubling Point Lighthouse

Acadia National Park

Enjoying the Coast of Maine in Rockland

Kayaking Near Owl Head Lighthouse, Maine

United States:  Massachusetts

Salem

Touring the House of the Seven Gables

United States:  Michigan

Oswald’s Bear Farm

Feeding a Baby Bear at Oswald’s Bear Farm

United States:  Nevada

Harrah’s, Las Vegas

008 Harrah's Hillbillies

Slot Winners at Harrah’s

Las Vegas

001 Las Vegas Airport

Welcome to Las Vegas!

United States:  New York

An Afternoon at Niagara Falls

The Gorgeous Falls on the US Side

United States:  Ohio

Cincinnati:  The Blind Lemon

The Patio in Winter

Cincinnati:  Krohn Conservatory

Exploring Krohn Conservatory

Columbus:  Inniswood Hike

Strolling through Inniswood Metro Park during Winter

Columbus: Zoo Lights

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

 

Ohio Festivals:

The Banana Split Festival

Making our own Banana Splits at the Banana Split Festival

Medieval Life at the Renaissance Festival

Exploring the Ohio Renaissance Festival

United States:  Ohio Wineries

A.R. Winery

Buckeye Lake Winery

Gervasi Vineyard

Entering Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, Ohio

Charcuterie Plate at Gervasi Vineyard

Henke Winery and Restaurant

Hundley Cellars

Lakehouse Inn and Winery

Moyer Vineyard Winery & Restaurant

Vinoklet Winery

Winery at Versailles

Yellow Butterfly Winery

United States:  Rhode Island

Cliff Walk

A Furry Friend on Cliff Walk

United States:  South Dakota

Deadwood

Mount Rushmore

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Visiting Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

United States:  Wyoming

Wyoming, Cody

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Beautiful Landscape from Cody, Wyoming

It is amazing how much ground one can cover in a year!   This year will be another amazing travel year!  Where did you go in 2018?  Do you have any plans for this year?  I would love to hear from you! Leave a message in the comments section!   Happy Travels!

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