Tag Archives: historic

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.

 

Roscoe Village in Coshocton, Ohio

I had recently visited the Ohio River Museum in Marietta, learning about the riverboat transports along the Ohio River, when I decided to make the drive from Cincinnati to the canal town of Roscoe Village.   Beautifully preserved, this lovely town tells the story of a simpler life when goods were transported along the Ohio and Erie canals.  Red-bricked walkways connect restored buildings that house lively shops, museums and restaurants.

Each year, this historical district offers summer programs where attendees can learn about printing, create a stained glass souvenir and participate in arts and crafts.  Each summer Roscoe Village hosts its annual festival where the town comes to life with period actors dressed in the fashion of the 1800s, answering questions about life at the Village.  There are several food trucks and activities that Festival draws visitors from all over the state of Ohio and nearby states Their website provides additional information and updates for these services.

I began my tour at the Visitor’s Center where I watched a short, historical video.  Browsing around the exhibits (some of the exhibits require a ticket), I learned about the construction of the canals, read about the history of the American Indians that had once lived here and picked up some additional information for nearby businesses.

The town of Roscoe was initially named after its first white settler who arrived from Rhode Island around 1811.  James Calder laid out the plans for the town which he named Caldersburgh.  He died in 1824.

In 1961, Edward and Frances Montgomery purchased the Toll House at Roscoe Village to restore the building to its original state.  They wanted to preserve the town for future visitors to enjoy as a way to preserve its history.  Near the Visitor’s Center is a Memorial Garden in memory of Frances who also planted the gardens in the early 1970s. Additional gardens on the property include Weaver’s and Caldersburgh Gardens.

A nearby placard documents Coshocton County’s contribution to the Underground Railroad with several locals assisting fugitives to escape slavery in the South.  Prior Foster was instrumental in helping with the cause, offering his home as shelter to fugitives and ensuring their cross at Harbaugh Corner so that they could obtain their freedom.

Roscoe Village has a living history program and during my visit, the Blacksmith happened to be working in the shop, called the “Village Smithy”.   Next door is the Hay Craft and Learning Center where visitors can learn to make brooms and tour a print shop.

Along the cobblestone sidewalks are boutique shops with unique gifts, products from Ohio and food items.  I picked up a few dip mixes, salsas and a shelf that would look great in my living room.  The Visitor’s Center was located on the second floor, so I picked up a few additional ideas for my weekend in Coshocton County.

On the main street, there were additional shops, restaurants, the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum, Montgomery Hall and the Toll House.  Located inside of the 1840 Jacob Welsh House is the Living History Tour documenting the restoration of Roscoe Village.

Historical photos are displayed on several walls to show Roscoe Village prior to its construction updates.  Before leaving the museum to board the Monticello III, I made a stop at The Warehouse Steak and Stein for lunch, ordering a chicken sandwich, salad and beer.

Visitors can explore the interactive, outdoor museum with self guided living history tours and engage with local costumed interpreters such as artisans, press operators, doctors and teachers.  Continue to experience hands-on activities while strolling the village’s period shops and lively restaurants. With a total of seven historic buildings, guests can explore the town’s 19th century history from 10AM to 4PM.

Over the past 50 years, Roscoe Village has hosted the Apple Butter Stirring Festival on the third weekend of October.  Holidays are also an amazing time to visit as Roscoe Village comes to life, celebrating the Christmas Holiday, with carolers, Santa and his elves, beautiful luminaries lining the streets and the traditional tree-lighting ceremonies.

Have you had an opportunity to visit Roscoe Village in Coshocton?  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 Roscoe Village and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Historic Roscoe Village
600 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio
Telephone:  800 877 1830

  • Admission Fee:  Free except for nominal fees for some exhibits.
  • Hours:  Roscoe Village Visitor Center is open 7 days a week with Living History Tours from 10AM to 4PM.
  • Amenities:  a museum, gift shop, restrooms, special events and tours
  • Length of Visit:  2.5 – 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes for walking.  Plan to shop and don’t miss the opportunity to ride the Monticello III, a canal boat.

Where to Stay:

The Roscoe Boutique Motel
421 S. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio  43812
Telephone:  740 622 8736

Where to Eat:

Warehouse Steak and Stein
400 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio  43812
Telephone:  740 622 4001

What to Read:

  • I Remember Roscoe, by Robert Hull

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Hueston Woods State Park in College Corner, Ohio

Located in Butler County, Ohio, Hueston Woods was a family favorite for summer vacation camping.  An hour and a half drive from Springfield, we would leave shortly after our father finished his work day with plenty of time to put up our tent and settle in for the evening.

The next day we would wake up early, enjoy a breakfast cooked over an open fire and then hike off our morning meal.  The park offers 12 miles of trails with the longest measuring just over 2 miles.  Our favorite hikes included animal sightings and a creek where we could search for crawdads.  We would also search for firewood and kindling for the evening’s fire.

Although we did not own a boat, we would pack a picnic and make a trip down to the marina.  On sunny days, boaters would drop off their boats, park their trailers and enjoy a day on the lake.  We would also find fishing holes in the nearby coves in hopes of catching our dinner of bluegill and catfish.

On a recent visit to Hueston Woods, I noticed the beautiful covered bridge over Four Mile Creek.  I couldn’t remember the bridge from our days of camping and soon learned that it was completed in 2012 to replace the previous metal bridge.  The covered walkways attached to the bridge allows visitors to pass through safely.

Nearby, Historic Hopewell Church is listed as a stop  on the Underground Railroad trail.  Dating back to 1808, the original log church was replaced by the current brick structure in 1825.  The nearby Hopewell Cemetery is the final resting place for local church attendees who died during the Civil War.  Nearly 1000 locals are buried here.

Overall, my favorite memory of Hueston Woods, was the reception of my aunt and uncle’s wedding.  They had met while attending the University of Miami of Ohio, so this was a perfect place to celebrate. I will never forget that it was the first time, at the age of nine, that I accidentally drank the spiked punch at the reception. I promise, it was only one sip.

Have you visited Hueston Woods near Oxford, Ohio?  What memories do you have of visiting this great Ohio state park?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

What to See and What to Do:

Hueston Woods State Park
6301 Park Office Road
College Corner, OH  45003
Telephone:  513 523 6347

Where to Stay:

Hueston Woods State Park
6301 Park Office Road
College Corner, OH  45003
Telephone:  513 523 6347

Where to Eat:

The Bagel Shop and Deli
119 East High Street
Oxford, OH  45056
Telephone:  513 523 2131

  • Hours:  Sunday and Monday from 8AM to 12 AM and Tuesday through Saturday from 8AM to 2:30AM
  • Tips for Your Visit:  The lines can be long when the local bars close, so plan accordingly.

Eden Park in Mt. Adams is the Perfect Weekend Escape from Cincinnati’s Rush Hour

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After a long day of work in downtown Cincinnati, Eden Park was always one of my favorite places to escape the five o’clock traffic.  From here, I could watch the barges float down the Ohio River and count the number of cars passing over the freeway into Kentucky.

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The yellow Big Mac Bridge (Daniel Carter Beard Bridge) stands out with its bright color and my favorite bridge, the historic, blue John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge was once the longest suspension bridge in the world.   The views from here are breathtaking, serene and the perfect spot for winding down from my work day.   I reveled in the sites, watching the traffic thin out while the number of boats increased on the Ohio River.

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Many times I would bring a book to read and find a seat on one of the benches surrounded by a rainbow of colorful flowers.  To hear the low humming of the bee’s buzz and smell the blooms were moments of therapy and meditation.   Occasionally, I would be visited by a friendly puppy out for his afternoon walk, or distracted by a jogger passing by on his afternoon run, but most of the time I found the overlook soothing and quiet.

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Wondering what it would be like to visit on a weekend, I packed up a picnic lunch and set off for the park on a Sunday afternoon.  Families enjoyed each other’s company as they barbequed near the parking lot at Twin Lakes .  Children played on the lawn as their parents caught up with friends and family.

On Saturdays, when the park was less busy, I would stop by for a visit after enjoying some time at either the Cincinnati Art Museum or Krohn’s Conservatory.   I loved driving through the grand entrance of  the two small towers where eagle sculptures guarded the Melan Arch Bridge.  Built in 1894, this regal gateway was the first concrete arch bridge in the state of Ohio.

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The area, known as Twin Lakes, was once an old quarry.  Updated to include walking paths and gardens, a footbridge was built to connect the two bodies of water. Several sculptures dedicated to the Queen City stand  along the pathway where ducks enjoy floating about in the ponds as children launch their motorized boats in the water.

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One of my favorite sculptures in the park is quite unique and stands out among the rest.   Unlike the other statues is the Japanese man with a cormorant bird, a gift from Cincinnati’s sister city, Gifu, Japan.

According to the Japanese tradition of ukai, the fisherman would first tie a leash around the bird which would then dive for a fish, catching it in its throat.  Unable to swallow the fish because of the tie around its neck, the fisherman would release the fish from the bird’s mouth for his own.

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Another beautiful art piece in the park was a gift from Rome, Italy, a replica statue of the Capitoline Wolf.  The city of Cincinnati was named after Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus, a Roman statesman and aristocrat, so it only seems fitting that Cincinnati would receive this sculpture from it’s sister city, Rome.   The Capitoline wolf was the legendary mother of the ancient city’s founders, Romulus and Remus.

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Within walking distance of the Twin Lakes is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.   From the park, I took a set of stairs to the Melan Arch Bridge where I stopped for a moment to admire the eagle statues.  Nearby was a pathway leading to the monument which stood in memory of those who served in the Vietnam war.

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Leaving the park’s center, I approached the ruins of the Eden Park Reservoir.  Built between the years 1866 and 1878, designed by Samuel Hannaford, this architectural wonder once took up the space of 12 acres and held 96 million gallons of water.  Only a small section remains of the jagged rock ruins that could have easily been mistaken as an ancient Roman relic.

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Turning around to retrace my steps, I noticed a large red tower standing over me.  Water was once pumped into this stand pipe from the Ohio River.  Once designed to hold water for local residents, it is another reminder of Cincinnati’s architectural past and industrial advancements.

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From the reservoir ruins, I walked the open field of grass which once contained water for local residents.  At the end of the park is Mirror Lake and its tall fountain which surges 40 feet high.   A paved walking path surrounds the perimeter of the lake with spectacular views of the city.   A popular location for runners, joggers and pet walkers on a sunny day, I have come to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere watching the ducks bathe and and feeling the sun’s warm rays on my face.

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Nearby Spring House Gazebo is perfect for shade against the sun or unexpected rain.  It is the oldest structure in the park, standing here since the early 1900s.

The history of Eden Park is interesting in the fact that this land was once owned by Nicholas Longworth, “Father of the American wine Industry”.  Grape vines once covered this landscape where Longworth developed the Catawba grape and produced America’s first champagne.

Today aver 186 acres of Longworth’s property has been converted into an urban park, home to some of Cincinnati’s most influential artistic institutions.  Here you can find the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Krohn Conservatory and Cincinnati’s Playhouse in the Park.  Open all year around, this park is the perfect place to visit regardless of the season,  and don’t forget to check out nearby Mt. Adams.

What is your favorite spot in Eden Park?  Do you like visiting during the busy season or do you find it a wonderful place of solitude?  I would love to hear your thoughts about Eden Park if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Maybe you have another Cincinnati Park that I should visit, let me know and I would love to explore it as well!  Many thanks for taking this journey with me to Eden Park!  Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Eden Park
950 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 352 4080

  • Admission Fee:   There is no admission fee to visit Eden Park.
  • Hours:  Open daily from 6AM to 10PM
  • Amenities:  A gazebo, walking paths, Memorial Lake and Bettman Fountain at Hinkle Magnolia Garden; Twin Lakes  with a footbridge, walking paths, scenic views of the Ohio River, a number of sculptures, a picnic area, amphitheater and a playground for children.
  • Scenic View:  Spectacular views of the Ohio River and the state of Kentucky cross the river.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Sundays afternoons can be crowded at the Twin Lakes. This is also a popular place on the weekends for brides to be posing for wedding photos.

Where to Stay:

Springhill Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Midtown
610 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 381 8300

Where to Eat:

Terrace Cafe
953 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 639 2986

I enjoyed an afternoon lunch at the Terrace Cafe located inside of the Cincinnati Art Museum.  Visiting several times, my favorite menu items are the Pear Salad, with winter pears, craisin, feta cheese, candied walnuts and raspberry vinaigrette and the Chicken Salad Sandwich of diced chicken, carrots, chives, celery, lemon aioli, aged white cheddar, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted croissant.  Enjoy!

What to Eat: 

  • Skyline Chili:  My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce.  I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out.  Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese.  Additional toppings include onions and beans.
  • LaRosa’s Pizza:  A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce.  My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
  • Graeter’s Ice Cream:  It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich.  Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
  • Montgomery Inn BBQ:  Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience.  Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals.  Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
  • Glier’s Goetta:  While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy.  Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
  • BonBonerie:  One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

AC Hotel Rooftop Bar
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 744 9900

What to Read:

  • Eligible:  A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • Running, by J.T. Cooper
  • Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
  • Beloved, by Toni Morrison
  • Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
  • Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide to Cincinnati:

  • City Hall – Inside and Out
  • Smale Riverfront Park
  • Union Terminal
  • Roebling Suspension Bridge
  • Washington Park
  • Krohn Conservatory
  • American Sign Museum

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

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Elsinore Arch built in 1883

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Beautiful Flowers at Eden Park

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Twin Lakes at Eden Park

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Ducks Enjoying Twin Lakes

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Stairs Leading to Melan Arch Bridge

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Another view of the reservoir structure located at Eden Park

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Welcome to Eden Park

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Views of Mt. Adams from the reservoir ruins at Eden Park

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The view of the Eden Park fountain from the ruins of the reservoir

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A lock that was added to the fencing that once surrounded Eden Park’s reservoir

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O’Betty’s Red Hot in Athens, Ohio

House sitting for my sister in Athens,  I wanted to try a couple of local hot spots for lunch and decided on O’Betty’s.  Also known as O’Betty’ Red Hot, I wasn’t quite sure if I would even like a Red Hot, but I thought it was a clever name and made plans to stop by the cute little restaurant in Uptown.

O’Betty’s first opened in 2003 within the college campus of Ohio University and has been a staple of students and locals over the years.  Serving meaty franks (usually smoked or cured), they are dyed to give them their red color, hence the name Red Hot.   Using fresh ingredients and served in “toasted and steamed honey buns”, the topping combinations are what keep the students coming back.

A Red Hot, also known as a Texas hot, is a term coined in Rochester, NY which refers to a “pork, beef or pork/beef combination hot dog.” 

Stepping through the door I was welcomed with an aroma of steamed buns and fried potatoes.  Studying the menu above the counter, I found humor in the names of their red hot selections paying tribute to famous burlesque stars.  From the classic Gypsy “High Class” to the modern Tempest “Stormy Weather”, there were so many options that I had a difficult time making my selection. I decided to try the Dixie “Hubba-Hubba” which was topped with homemade chili sauce, onion, cheddar cheese and stadium mustard.

As I waited for the servers to complete my order, I browsed the hot dog display which included vintage signs, wiener dog paraphernalia and hot dog-related merchandise.  While hot dogs seem as American as baseball and apple pie, they are first historically mentioned by ancient author, Homer, describing casings filled with ground meat and spices. Vienna and Frankfurt have taken ownership of this delicacy claiming its invention in the 1800s and calling them “dachschund sausages.”  In 1987, Frankfurt celebrated the hot dog’s 500th anniversary.

Americans claim the invention of the hot dog and bun combination. Charles Feltman came up with a novel idea by serving the hot dogs wrapped in a bun to keep from burning their patron’s hands. So this is apparently how the hot dog became a favorite meal for baseball games.

The artwork and items on display were incredibly fascinating. The collection provides a historical and educational look at the invention of the red hot and its evolution over the years.

I was even more amazed by the multiple awards O’Betty’s had won since 2004 with their latest award in 2015.  They were also listed as one of “15 Mouthwatering Restaurants in Ohio You Have to Try” written by Katie Quinn, a local Ohio writer.

I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into this amazing hot dog fully loaded with toppings.  They say the hot dog has an outer casing that makes your first bite “snap.”  The servings were quite generous so I saved half for later, but it was definitely difficult to pull myself away from eating the whole dog.  I can’t wait to check off all of the menu items and look forward to some new inventions.

Have you had the opportunity to dine at O’Betty’s Red Hot?  Which hot dog did you select?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

What to See and What to Do:

O’Betty’s Red Hot
15 W. State Street
Athens, OH  45701
Telephone:   740 589 6111

Where to Eat:

O’Betty’s Red Hot
15 W. State Street
Athens, OH  45701
Telephone:   740 589 6111

What to Eat:

Check out O’Betty’s Red Hot Menu to find your favorite hot dog:
http://www.obettys.com/hot-dogs.html

You can also design your own hot dog creation!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Dine at Culp’s Cafe in Carillon Park, Dayton

UPDATE!   Since my visit in 2016, Culp’s Cafe has expanded as a full-service restaurant where waiters and waitresses in period costumes will take your order. Check out the counter where you will find the large soda fountain on display.

During a visit to Carillon Park, I had the opportunity to dine in at the historical Culp’s Cafe.  Surrounded by early 20th century architecture and design, this delightful eatery was built to resemble local Culp’s Cafeteria of the 1930’s, when Dayton was on the rise with ingenuity and invention.

Cafeterias have since been replaced by restaurants and buffets, but were once popular food service locations.  Think hospitals and high schools where food would be displayed at a counter, you could make your selection and pay the cashier for your purchase.  At one time, this was how one would order food and then find a dining room table or counter to enjoy their food.

Inside are photos of acclaimed diner, Culp’s Cafeteria, a historical eatery founded by Charlotte Gilbert Culp, whose success story is quite fascinating.  According to the Carillon Historical Park website, Charlotte was a widow who prepared baked goods and sold them door to door to support her six children which led to her opening a stand at Dayton’s South Main Street Market.  Expanding the business, Charlotte’s son Howard, opened three lunch counters at Dayton’s Arcade, a three-story indoor market with over 200 stalls.  In 1931, the Culp’s Cafeteria opened at the Arcade with its fountain and full-service restaurant, later expanding throughout the Dayton area.

According to the feed on Dayton History Books Online, Culp’s was a popular spot with the local police  and locals.

The black and white floor tiles and red cushioned bar stools are reminiscent of the early 1900’s diners.  There is a small deli refrigerator where you can select a couple of items to enjoy for lunch.  I decided on the chicken salad with a milkshake, a typical meal one would order at a diner and set off to continue my exploration of Carillon Historical Park.

Have you visited Culp’s Cafe?  Do you have some insight on its history?  I would love to learn more about the history of Culp’s Cafeteria in the late 1900s if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my lunch stop at Culp’s Cafe and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Culp’s Cafe at Carillon Historical Park
1000 Carillon Blvd.
Dayton, OH  45409
Telephone:  937 299 2277

 

A Copper Mining Ghost Town: Jerome State Historic Park

Surrounded by a sense of the paranormal, I approached the historical ghost town of Jerome.  Uninhabited, it felt as though the residents of this Arizona village had stopped in the middle of what they were doing, packed their belongings and took off without a moment’s notice.  As I pulled my car into the parking lot, I couldn’t help but look around and realize I was the only one visiting the park.  All alone, I quickly understood why Jerome has been called the largest “ghost town” in the United States.

Jerome State Historic Park is located between the towns of Prescott and Flagstaff. Founded in 1876, the population’s highest count was 15,000 in the late 1920’s, once the fourth largest city in the state of Arizona.

Among the remains of the old mining town is the hotel which is located on top of Cleopatra Hill.  Abandoned, it reminded me of the Stanley Hotel in Stephen King’s “The Shining.”

Jerome was once labeled the wickedest town in the west.  Known for its mining of copper, the industry eventually declined and locals had to leave to find employment elsewhere.  The city was later converted into a historic ghost town and eventually recognized as a National Historic District.  The spectacular views from the Jerome Grand Hotel overlook the sparsely vegetated mountains and deeply  excavated valleys.

Remnants of the mining town remained with only about 450 permanent residents calling Jerome their home.  With fabulous restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and a winery, the state park and local museum are dedicated to teaching visitors about the city’s rich mining history.

It was quite clear while visiting the State Park that Jerome had not changed much over the last 100 years.  Some of the historic buildings had undergone restoration with a few more projects set for the future.  The challenge has been the fact that the city sits along a hill at a 30 degree slope and some of the buildings have been damaged due to their sliding down the incline.  It is believed that the 88 miles of mine shafts may have contributed to the landslide.

In, 1962, the Douglas Mansion was donated to the city by the heirs of Jimmy Douglas.  It was used to create the Jerome State Historic Park.

For those that enjoy history, a visit to downtown Jerome is a must to explore some of the town’s historic buildings like the old jail and the “Cribs District” which was once a part of Jerome’s “prostitution row”.  It is located in a back alley across the street from the English Kitchen.

Jerome is a fascinating town that has retained much of its historical surroundings.  Located only 90 miles from Phoenix, it is a perfect day trip from several towns in Arizona such as Flagstaff as well as Sedona.  For now, I am ready to head back to my bed and breakfast but not before stopping at the Jerome Winery for a little rest and relaxation.  Somehow the silence has grown on me, and who knows, maybe I will see proof of life on my next visit.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Jerome, Arizona?  What did you think of your experience?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading about my side trip to Jerome, Arizona!  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Jerome State Historic Park
200 Douglas Road
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 634 5381

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  $7 (ages 14 and over); Youth:  $4 (ages 7 to 13);  Children:  Free (ages 0 to 6 ).
  • Hours:  The park is open daily from 8AM to 5PM with the exception of Thanksgiving (8AM to 2PM), Christmas Eve (8AM to 2PM) and Christmas Day (closed).
  • Amenities: Programs and events, Junior Ranger Program, Visitor Center, Gift Shop, Museum and Exhibits, Picnic areas, Video Presentation, Self-Guided Walk
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Scenic View:  Photograph  the Jerome Hotel
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  You may also want to bring a telephoto lens for photographs.  Be prepared for several stairs.

Bittercreek Winery (Cellar 433)
Prescott National Forest
240 Hull Avenue
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 634 7033

  • Hours:  The winery is open Monday through Wednesday from 11AM to 6PM and Thursday to Sunday from 11AM to 7PM.
  • Amenities: Group wine Tasting and Special Events; Menu, local Micro-Brews and amazing views of the Verde Valley.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Scenic View:  See the Verde Valley and Red Rocks of Sedona

UPDATE:  The Echo Canyon Winery is now permanently closed

Echo Canyon Winery
Prescott National Forest
419 Hull Avenue
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 649 9800

Where to Stay:

The Surgeon’s House
Prescott National Forest
100 Hill Street
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 639 1452

A historical bed and breakfast located in Prescott National Forest.  Beautiful views!

Where to Eat:

Grapes Restaurant & Bar
Prescott National Forest
111 Main Street
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:   928 639 8477

I ordered the Caprese Ring and it was fabulous and fresh!  The Create a Bowl of Pasta was perfect where I could select my own type of pasta, meat and sauce.  I created a fettuccine carbonara…yum!

Books to Read: 

  • After the Boom in Tombstone and Jerome, Arizona: Decline in Western Resource Towns, by Eric L. Clements
  • Home Sweet Jerome: Death and Rebirth of Arizona’s Richest Copper Mining City, by Diane Seward Rapaport
  • They Came to Jerome: The Billion Dollar Copper Camp, by Herbert V. Young
  • Lady Lost:  The Story of the Honeymoon Cottage in Jerome, Arizona, by Margaret Graziano
  • The Ghost of the Cuban Queen Bordello: A Story of a 1920’s Jerome Arizona Madam, by Peggy Hicks
  • Ghosts of Cleopatra Hill, by Herbert V. Young

Photo Guide for Jerome:

  • Shoot at dusk for the best lighting.
  • Photograph side streets for a different perspective
  • Search out local people to photograph
  • Places to photograph:
    • Jerome Grand Hotel
    • The Asylum, a local restaurant
    • Bisbee’s Copper Mine
    • Audrey Headframe Park
    • Haunted Hamburger

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