The Garst Museum and Greenville’s Early Beginnings

4 March 202122 September 2024

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

Ski Trip to Utah! An Evening on Main Street, Park City

19 January 202020 September 2024

After a day of skiing, we decided to visit Park City’s Main Street. Our first stop was the No Name Saloon & Grill, which was the town’s oldest and most popular hangout, having first opened in 1903.

As we walked into the warm, cozy restaurant, it was a great reprieve from the cold outdoors. It felt as if we had just entered a remote cabin in the wilderness. A variety of backwoods memorabilia was hanging from the ceiling and posted to the walls. From the antler chandeliers to the pulley controlled ceiling fan, it was definitely a relaxing way to enjoy our evening.

After kicking back a few beers and some spicy chicken wings, we decided to take a quick ride on the Park City shuttle. Park City offers a free trolley for public transit that transports visitors and residents to the ski resorts as well as other districts in the vicinity. It was a welcome attraction for getting around and reduced the stress of trying to find a parking spot in this popular location.

The No Name Saloon & Grill is located at 447 Main Street, Park City, Utah 84060 and is open daily from 10AM to 2AM. Visit their website at www.nonamesaloon.net.

For more information about the Park City Transit System and additional things to do while visiting Park City, check out the Park City website at www.visitparkcity.com.

Do you have a favorite ski location? What are some of the added attractions that you enjoy after a day of skiing? I would love to hear about your ski adventures in the comments below! Happy Travels!

Snow shoes hanging up in the No Name Saloon

More No Name Saloon Memorabilia

A Taste of Cuba at The Starliner Diner, Hilliard, Ohio

22 September 201716 September 2024

I won’t claim to be an expert on Cuban food, but having lived in Tampa for several years, I’ve have had my share of Cuban sandwiches at Hugos and La Terasita’s served with a side of black beans and rice. So when a friend suggested I try Starliner Diner in Hilliard, Ohio, I was curious to see if they could compare to the authentic dishes I truly missed.

When I arrived at the café on Cemetery Road, I quickly learned (from my friends at Destination Hilliard and the Hilliard Chamber of Commerce) that the restaurant had outgrown its space and had relocated to nearby Main Street in Old Hilliard.

As soon as I entered the restaurant, I briefly felt as though I was back in Florida with the colorful rooms and mounted fish on the walls. Transported to the tropics without the beach, I was escorted to the main dining room sitting next to a huge mural of the sun. The extensive menu was full of amazing Caribbean dishes to include appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pastas, pizzas and supper dishes.

In addition, I was provided a handwritten page of specials for the day, but I already knew what I would be ordering….the Media Noche (Cuban Sandwich) with the fried plantains.

When my meal arrived, my mouth was watering from the sweet aroma of the plantains and the delicious smell of ham and Swiss. My sandwich was perfectly pressed and I was ready to take my first bite. Ahhh…I had been waiting for this moment and I was not disappointed. This Cuban was a perfect blend of marinated pork and ham, Swiss cheese, a hint of mustard and pickles. It tasted as authentic as if I had just ordered it from a roadside food stall in Cuba. The plantains were fried to perfection with a mild taste of sweetness and I love the caramelized texture of this delectable side dish.

The Starliner Diner rates high on my list of restaurants to visit in Hilliard and I wish them nothing but success with its new location. I am already checking my calendar to make plans to visit for the Chiles Rellenos,

Have you had the opportunity to visit Starliner Diner? I would love to hear what you like to order if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below, that would be great! Many thanks for reading my post and I hope you continue to follow my journey as I explore my home state of Ohio and beyond.

Where to Eat:

Starliner Diner
4121 Main Street
Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Telephone: 614 529 1198

Where to Stay:

Hilton Garden Inn Columbus/Dublin
500 Metro Place North
Dublin, OH 43017
Telephone: 614 766 9900

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
North Market: A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
The Thurman Cafe: The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village. There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant: While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read:

Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus:

Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
Columbus Museum of Art: the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
Everal Barn and Homestead: landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
Frank Fetch Park: gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
Franklin Park Conservatory: beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
Gantz Park: barn, beautiful trees,
German Village: brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
Grove City: brick roads, small town, shopping area
Hayden Falls – wooden walking path, waterfall
Historical Village of Hilliard: a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
Inniswood Metro Gardens: gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
Ohio State University: campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
Park of Roses in Clintonville: various types of rose gardens
Riverfront Park: city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Schiller Park: gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
Scioto Mile: city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Scioto Park in Dublin: statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
Short North: restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
Topiary Park: depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

Fish and Chips at the Old Bag of Nails Pub in Hilliard, Ohio

25 August 201622 July 2024

I called a British friend of mine to meet me for lunch at The Old Bag of Nails Pub and explained that this was one of my favorite go-to places for authentic Fish and Chips. Surprised by the name, he said he thought that this was a coffee shop rather than a restaurant. I guessed he was confusing the restaurant with Chock Full O’Nuts…who knows, but we agreed that the Hilliard location was closest for both of us.

I quickly learned, through the magic of the internet, that this restaurant had originally opened in a former hardware store, so hence the name, The Old Bag of Nails. Regardless, you can’t go wrong with pub food and a pint.

Located on the corner of Norwich and Main Street in Old Hilliard, the restaurant is easily accessible with plenty of parking spaces. Graham was waiting as I parallel parked and we were quickly seated at a nearby booth. Handed our menus, we each placed our order for a pint of Guinness.

Although I usually know what I am going to order, I am always tempted to order the all you can eat fish and chips. There are two options which include fried cod or baked cod with a dill dip. The portions are unbelievably large, with two pieces of fried fish. Just thinking about the fried fish batter makes my mouth water. It is served with coleslaw, tartar sauce and a side of French fries that could feed a family of five. I love to add malt vinegar to both the fish and fries.

I can hardly eat the first piece of fried fish, but my server brings me a piece of baked fish so that I can try it. The dill dip that comes with the baked option really compliments the flavor of the cod. I’m glad I tried it, but now I’m wondering how I could feel so full. I want to blame the fish, but then again, it could be the ale. Yes, it was probably the ale. I guess I’ll just have to go home and take a nap.

Have you had the opportunity to visit The Old Bag of Nails Pub? Besides the fish and chips, what other menu items are your favorite? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!

Where to Eat:

The Old Bag of Nails Pub
4065 Main Street
Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Telephone: 614 777 0713

You can’t go wrong with the best Fish & Chips in town!

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The Bar at The Old Bag of Nails Pub

Inside the Old Bag of Nails Pub in Old Hilliard, Ohio

Experience a Western Town by Visiting Rawhide in Arizona

15 May 201431 August 2024

It seems like ages ago that I spent the afternoon in the little western town of Rawhide, in northern Scottsdale, Arizona. With a fascination of learning more about the wild, wild west, I decided it would be fun to explore this recreation with gunslingers and historical outposts.

I imagined the John Wayne movies and Clint Eastwood’s attitude as I was transported back in time to the 1880s with a stage coach, train rides, gunfights and a mechanical bull named Widowmaker.

While I’m not the gambling type, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to strike it rich panning for gold, while failing miserably at the shooting gallery. After a few hours of reveling in the good ole days, I checked into the Rawhide Steakhouse for an authentic western-style meal with portions big enough to feed any hardy cowboy or a family of four.

Entrance into the town of Rawhide is free, unless an event has been scheduled. Visitors can check out Rawhide’s event calendar at calendar@rawhide.com. The town attractions require tickets or a wristband to participate, but both can be picked up at the entrance located on-site.

Unique shops line the wide dirt road selling souvenirs or fashionable western wear. Main Street is where all of the action takes place and at one point, I found myself in the middle of a gunfight.

I suggest that visitors plan for a full day of fun participating in a number of interactive experiences. If I had more time, I would have loved to have scheduled the desert train ride or watched a performance at the Spirit of the West Theatre.

After dinner, I had just enough time for one more activity and was having a difficult time deciding what I should do next. It was a toss up between the burros and the mules and I finally made up my mind to take a mule ride in the Sonoran desert. The excursion began at the Butterfield Stageline and was the perfect experience for watching the sunset. The warm, beautiful sun gave off a soft glow as it disappeared behind the cacti the covered the desert floor. Reflecting off of the ground cover in muted tones, we had plenty of time to return before dark of night.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Rawhide or a similar old western town? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for reading about my visit to Rawhide and wishing you many Happy Travels!

UPDATE since my visit to Rawhide!

The location of Rawhide has moved from Scottsdale to Chandler, located on the Gila Indian Reservation, close to the Phoenix Airport. In 2008, they reopened the Wild West Museum with featured exhibits and artifacts.

What to See and What to Do:

Rawhide Western Town
5700 W N. Loop Road
Chandler, Arizona 85226
Telephone: 480 502 5600

Admission Fee: Free during Signature and Holiday events.
Hours: Rawhide is only open for visitors during Signature and Holiday events which are listed on their website.
Amenities: Restaurant, rides, shopping, entertainment venue, scheduled concerts and festivals as well as private events.
Length of Visit: 3 – 4 hours

Where to Stay:

The Boulders Resort & Spa
34631 North Tom Darlington Drive
Carefree, Arizona 85377
Telephone: 480 488 9009

Where to Eat:

El Encanto Mexican Patio Cafe
6248 E. Cave Creek Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
Telephone: 480 488 1752

This was such a romantic restaurant and I loved sitting out on the outside patio!

What to Eat:

Cheese crisps have a tortilla base with a generous layer of cheese, baked to crispy perfection.
Chimichangas
Mesquite flour is made from the mesquite tree and has a nutty flavor. Perfect for baking, try this local delicacy in sweets such as breads, muffins and pancakes.
Native American fry bread dates back to the late 1800s and is a fried dough used as a base for savory taco toppings or seasoned with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
Sonoran Hot Dogs are wrapped in bacon, set inside the bun and topped with pinto beans, onion, tomatoes, mayonnaise, ketchup and mustard. This popular street food is easy to find on local menus.

What to Read:

Desert Noir, by Betty Webb
Desert Run, by Betty Webb
Desert Shadows, by Betty Webb
Desert Lost, by Betty Webb
Dead Heat, by Patricia Briggs

Photo Guide for Scottsdale:

Pinnacle Peak as seen from the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale must be photographed at night as well as from the resort’s patio
Greasewood Flat is a restaurant that was once a bunkhouse.
The architecture of Cosanti and Arcosanti in Scottsdale’s Paradise Valley
Old Town Scottsdale for authentic Wild West shots.
Camelback Mountain
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West

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

Family Vacation Photos to Walt Disney World, circa 1991

3 April 201431 August 2024

Visiting Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World!

What child hasn’t begged their parents for a visit to Walt Disney World? From the time they are born, kids are inundated with all things Disney, so for them to see it all in person is a child’s dream come true. Whether it is to see Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the Disney Princesses or another spectacular character, this splendid them park is truly magical…even for adults. One of my favorite memories was visiting the iconic Cinderella Castle.

Inside Cinderella’s Castle!

Inside of Cinderella’s castle, her fairy tale story is told through a series of murals. Each are handcrafted with over one million pieces of glass in 500 different shades of color. Silver and gold accentuate these exquisite masterpieces and bring her legendary story to life.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

The 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was an attraction at the Magic Kingdom from 1971 until 1994 located in the Fantasyland area of the park. Passengers could board the submarine to enjoy the sea life surrounded by lobsters, crabs, moray eels, sea bass, clams and turtles. Floating through the water, the sub passed by underwater attractions such as the Graveyard of Ships, mermaids and a large sea serpent in the ruins of Atlantis. This attraction no longer exists and has been replaced by Pooh’s Playful Spot and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

Fort Sam Clemens

Fort Sam Clements was located in Fort Wilderness of the Disney Park located in the Frontierland region of the park. Originally opened in 1973, the fort has since been renamed to Fort Langhorn at Tom Sawyer Island. Visitors can reach the island by floating on a log raft to explore caves, cross a suspension bridge and check out the frontier fort.

Walt Disney World Railroad Main Street Station & Mickey Mouse

Next, we boarded the train at the Main Street Station for a ride throughout the park. The tram took us through each region Walt Disney World with the exception of Adventureland. The Main Street Station is located at the entrance to Disney where we found a great photo opportunity with Mickey Mouse, made from colorful flowers.

Disney at Night!

Disney comes to life at night with an evening parade and fireworks show, It was totally worth the wait and is one of the most attended events at the Walt Disney World Park.

There was so much to see, rides to ride and attractions to experience. Walt Disney World first opened its doors in 1971 and hosts over 52 million visitors annually. It is open 365 days per year and continues to expand through added attractions and Disney-related resorts. The attractions mentioned here do not even compare to the number at all of the parks but were a great way to reminisce about my family vacation. Whether you are 9 or 99 years of age, Walt Disney World is a place to escape the reality of our everyday lives and to make our dreams come true.

Have you visited Walt Disney World in Orlando? What are some of your favorite attractions or cherished moments? I would love to hear from you, so leave a description of your experience in the comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Telephone: 407 939 7679

Walt Disney World Resort encompasses several theme parks to include Magic Kingdom^® Park, Epcot^®, Disney’s Hollywood Studios^® and Disney’s Animal Kingdom^® Theme Park, plus Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water parks.

Where to Stay:

Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Telephone: 407 939 7679

Walt Disney World Resort hotels include encompasses several theme parks to include Disney’s Animal Kingdom^®Lodge, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser (opening in 2021) and Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel.

Where to Eat:

Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Telephone: 407 939 7679

All Restaurants are located at Disney’s Magic Kingdom: Be Our Guest, Jungle Navigation Company, LTD Skipper Canteen, Rainforest Cafe, Casey’s Corner, The Plaza Restaurant, Main Street Bakery, The Crystal Palace, Tony’s Town Square Restaurant, Gaston’s Tavern, Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, Cinderella’s Royal Table, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, The Diamond Horseshoe, Columbia Harbour House, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, Pinocchio Village Haus, The Friar’s Nook, Sunshine Tree Terrace, The Lunching Pad, Tortuga Tavern, Cool Ship, Golden Oak Outpost, Liberty Tree Tavern, Sleepy Hollow, Liberty Square Market, Aloha Isle, Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, Contempo Cafe

Photo Guide to Walt Disney World: The park maps designate picture spots which are listed below.

The Magic Kingdom
- Big Thunder Mountain picture spot
- Sword in the Stone picture spot
- Tiki Statues picture spot
- Splash Mountain picture spot
Epcot
- Germany
- Japan
- Morocco
- Epcot Main Entrance
- United Kingdom
- China
- Canada
- France
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
- Hollywood Studios Arch
Animal Kingdom Park
- Main Entrance

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