Ohio Winery: Stone Crest Vineyard

9 March 202414 May 2025

“It’s all my wife’s fault,” Mike Barker said when I asked him why he and his wife Cheryl opened Stone Crest Vineyard. Her father, Riece Brown, had been making wine for a few years and the Barkers decided to “hone his craft” and planted their first vines in 2005. The name Stone Crest is based on both the soil, abundant with sandstone and its location on top of a hill. Since officially opening in 2007, the Barkers have expanded their vineyards and offer nearly twenty varieties of wine.

Ranging from dry to sweet, Stone Crest Vineyard’s award winning wines are available to sample. I found a great location at the tasting bar to enjoy some of the vineyard’s amazing wines and had a great chat with Fred. My tasting included the Chardonnay, Gemstone, Red Stone, Blue Stone and Peach.

Chardonnay – lightly oaked, dry white….14.95; My sister loves Chardonnay, so I picked up a bottle for her
Gemstone – semi sweet rose blend of pink Catawba 10.95; I absolutely love rose, so I couldn’t pass up adding this bottle to my collection
Red Stone – Concord, sweet red classic concord wine 10.95; Another great wine to have on hand for my friends who like “grape juice”
Blue Stone – blueberry and grape, sweet berry blend 11.95; A gold medal winner at the Ohio Wine Competition for the last 12 years
Peach – sweet peach made with peach juice…9.95; Crisp and fruity

Additional wines on the menu:

Winemakers Select 2013 – dry red with dark fruit flavors for 12 95
Winemakers Select 2017 (Malbec) – dry, bold red…17.99
Pinot Noir (out of stock) – dry red with great finish…17.99
Cabernet Franc (out of stock) – dry red with notes of cherry and black currant…17.99
Dry Riesling (out of stock) – dry white with hint of lemon….14.95
Tranquility (out of stock) – dry white that reminds one of Pinot Grigio …10.95
Semi sweet Riesling (out of stock) semi-sweet white with an apricot notes …14.95
De Vine – concord semi-sweet red, the fruit of the vine…10.95
Bouquet – Niagara – semisweet white with a fragrant bouquet 10.95
Dos Vinos – blend of semisweet red where two wines are blended to perfection…12.95
Red Raspberry – with a bite of raspberry pie (out of stock) – 9.95
Apple – sweet apple with a hint of cinnamon – 8.95
Waterfall Wine – out of stock; Niagara sweet white 9.95
White Stone (out of stock) – Catawba sweet white with flavors of citrus and kiwi…10.95

In addition to Stone Crest Vineyard’s spectacular wines, they winery offers slushies as well as the mix which is available for purchase. I tried their homemade slushie sangria which was absolutely delectable which is a combination of their Blue Stone, Red Stone, Cherry and Peach wines. This would be the perfect solution for a hot summer day.

Stone Crest Vineyard is located in the rural plains of Frazeyburg, Ohio. This lovely winery is open year around on Friday and Saturday evenings from noon to eight. Offering weekend dinners with a selection of two choices, these sold out gatherings include a baked potato, salad, roll and dessert. Their website’s calendar lists offerings such as pork loin or chicken, prime rib or baby back ribs, scallops with the option of filet mignon or chicken. Reservations required. Enjoy a bottle of wine with friends relax outside by the hillside waterfall or book a romantic weekend dinner at Stone Crest Vineyard. The winery accommodates bus tours and private events, so sample a few wines and buy a few wines for the holidays or special occasions.

Have you visited Stone Crest Vineyard? Which wines did you enjoy? I would love to hear about your experience if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for supporting The Suite Life of Travel by reading my post and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stone Crest Vineyard
10310 O’Dell Road
Frazeyburg, OH 43882
Telephone: 740 828 WINE

You can also check out their Facebook page!

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Dresden
209 Ames Avenue
Dresden, OH 43821
Telephone: 740 754 1122

Where to Eat:

The Inn at Dresden
209 Ames Avenue
Dresden, OH 43821
Telephone: 740 754 1122

We enjoyed an amazing breakfast of Bananas Foster French Toast which was absolutely sumptuous! In addition, we had a light dinner where we were served a couple of Filipino dishes of eggrolls and Chicken Adobo which were robust with amazing flavor!

Bear’s Mill, Greenville’s Historic Grist Mill

2 March 202414 May 2025

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.

John Rankin House: A Historical Safe Passage for Slaves

5 December 202323 September 2024

Many safe houses along the Ohio River provided a gateway to slaves that had escaped the south in pursuit of freedom. Having recently visited the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, I became more interested in visiting these private homes and shelters and was curious to learn more about the families that operated them. My search led me to The John Rankin House in Ripley, Ohio. This home was instrumental in providing assistance to over 2000 slaves in the 1800s.

Waiting for the tour to begin, I wandered towards the front of the property to check out the scenic view of the Ohio River. A stone path and wooden stairs lead down a steep decline to the street below and the vista is amazing on a clear, sunny day.

The tour begins in the parlor which is located at the front entrance of the house. Decorated in its original blue woodwork and hand painted stencil, the house is refurbished in the way it would have appeared in the 1840s.

The character Eliza, from Harriett Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin, is loosely based on the life of a young slave girl who passed through the Rankin home. The wood burning stove, mentioned in the book, was a central fixture located in the parlor of the home.

Before dams and locks were installed along the Ohio River, it was half its current depth and half as wide. This made crossing the river much easier than it would be to travel across today. Once the slaves reached Ohio, their first stop was the John Parker House down by the banks of the river. The local Red Oak Presbyterian church was also a haven for slaves between 1862 and 1868. A light in the window of the Rankin house signaled to Parker when it would be safe to bring the slaves to his home. From here, the girls of the home would feed their visitors, give them dry clothes and provide them a place to sleep.

Slaves could stay only about four to five hours before continuing their journey. They would travel along the underground railroad, a series of homes reaching Canada or Mexico that supported the freedom of slaves.

John Rankin was a reverend and staunch abolitionist. He was forced out of the southern states of Kentucky and Tennessee because of his beliefs and eventually made his home in Ripley.

Moving into the house on the hill in 1822 he paid only $700 for the 66 acre farm. There were nineteen people that lived in the Rankin House which included nine sons, four daughters and a few relatives.

The barns that they owned would also be used to hide slaves. Eventually, when bounty hunters would be allowed to search properties to find runaway slaves, this would be risky.

Jean Rankin, John’s wife, spent most of her time in the kitchen, while John could be found in the bedroom writing his sermons. Period furniture appears throughout the Rankin House and the Bible and glasses on display were property of the Rankin family.

The bedroom on the lower level was the master that had a rope bed/trundle bed. The stenciling found by the bed is original and it was protected by glass as part of the $1 million restoration of the home.

The kitchen has a nice fireplace with plenty of storage space and cupboards. In the center of the room is a large table for the adults to sit, while the children and servants would stand to eat. Other amenities included a butter churn, an overgrown wood station with a sink, a candle maker and a coffee grinder.

The girls and boys slept upstairs with multiple children sharing a bed. Sometimes, during the winter months, the boys would take a place on the kitchen floor to stay warm through the night.

The boys’ side of the room was always messy with clothes and shoes hanging from their beds. In the event that their parents would need their assistance in the middle of the night, they could quickly dress in the dark and make their way downstairs.

By 1850, bounty hunters were permitted to cross into Ohio to take their slaves back to the south, but they were not allowed to enter the homes. One night, there was a total of eight bounty hunters that approached the house while the eight children remained inside with their mother. She would not allow them to go outside in fear for their lives. Jean Rankin stood guard with her shot gun and was prepared to protect her family. At one point, shots were fired, but it was later determined that there were no fatalities, only an injured bounty hunter who was shot in the leg. During the time that the Rankin family took in slaves, none of them were injured nor caught while in their care.

Putting their lives in danger to assist slaves in their quest for freedom, the Rankin family are true American heroes. Learning more about them through the tour of their home, I am humbled by the passion of John Rankin and his active stance against slavery. He truly was a reverend who knew how to practice what he preached.

Update: The John Rankin House, formerly owned by the Ohio Historical Society, the home is now under the management of the Ohio Connection.

Have you visited the John Rankin House or can you recommend another home that was on the Underground Railroad trail, open for visitors? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly provide your information in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the John Rankin House and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

John Rankin House
6152 Rankin Hill Road
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 937 392 4044

Admission Fee: Adults: $6, Children and Students age K through 12: $3, OHC Member: Free, Children 5 and under: Free, Golden Buckeye Card Holders: $5
Hours: The John Rankin House is open from May to October from 10AM to 5PM from Wednesday to Saturday and 12PM to 5PM on Sundays. The museum us also open for the Historic House Tour.
Amenities: Available by appointment outside regular museum hours.
Scenic View: Views from the home overlook the Ohio River.
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Visitors can schedule private tours and photos can be taken on the inside of the house. Public tours take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Where to Stay:

The Signal House Bed and Breakfast
234 N. Front Street
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 937 392 1640

Where to Eat:

Cohearts Riverhouse
18 North Front Street
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 937 392 4819
American Cuisine with a fabulous view of the Ohio River!

Ripley Gourmet Tortillas
6 Main Street
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 937 392 4000
People rave over their guacamole!

Fifties Diner
15 South 2nd Street
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 937 392 9328
Cute little diner with American food located along the river!

Where to Drink:

Meranda-Nixon Winery
6517 Laycock Road
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 248 891 0935

What to Read:

The Underground Railroad, by Colson Whitehead
Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom, by Catherine Clinton
Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe

Making Friends with the Early Ohio Settlers at Sauder Village, Part 3

7 November 202314 May 2025

What a spectacular morning visiting the historical buildings of Sauder Village. On the Village Green, I explored the 1920’s Grime Homestead, admired the adorable farm animals, rode the free express train and explored the Natives and Newcomers exhibit. The remaining sites to explore are the Pioneer Settlement, the Little Pioneers Homestead, the Historic Community and the places in between.

I hope you have had the opportunity to read Parts 1 and 2 of my Sauder Village blog to put this amazing complex in perspective and to understand Sauder Village’s extraordinary beginnings.

Celebrating forty years as Ohio’s Largest Living History Destination, Sauder Village is an amazing replica of a small town dating back from 1803 to the 1920s. From the Natives and Newcomers Exhibit to the Pioneer Settlement there are close to forty buildings that will transport you to another place and time. I hope you enjoy the second part of my fun adventure at this attraction that ranks high on my list of places to see in Ohio.

When the Lauder family settled in northwestern Ohio, the area was considered a Black Swamp. Due to the conditions of the land, logs were laid side by side to accommodate carts and wagons, despite the bumpy ride.

It was also dangerous for the horses as their legs could be trapped between the logs. Regardless of the difficulties in crossing through the swamp, it seemed to have made transportation a little easier.

Inside of the early settlement of the Lauber family, they lived in temporary lean to structures until their homes are completed.

The log school is a recreation of a one-room schoolhouse that would have existed in the 1840s. Because the lighting inside was limited, the desks would face the walls where greased paper took the place of windows. The fireplace would keep the teacher and children warm, but overall, the schoolhouse was quite primitive.

During my visit to the Witmer-Roth home, it was already closed for the day. When open, there is a costumed guide that prepares a meal on either the stone hearth indoors or the outdoor bake oven. This is the original home of Anna Sauder Witmer-Roth, where she gave birth to ten of her 15 children. It is here where visitors can learn more about the woman’s role during the days of the early settlers.

Inside of the Etcher Cabin, a guide is making homemade noodles. She explains to me that this home was once owned by Jacob and Barbara Etcher who arrived in this area sometime in the 1850s.

The community jail on the premises was built in the late 1860s to house criminals in Edgerton, Ohio. Interestingly, there are only two cells as this was a temporary facility until the criminal stood trial.

The Peter Stuckey Farm includes the home, garden, summer kitchen, barn and wagon shop. Built in the 1870s, it was home to both him and his wife Catherine (Yoder). As a result of the drainage of the swamp, their farm became prosperous. Peter was also a successful wagon maker as well.

Building number 34 is the depot where the train stops to pick up passengers and drop them off to explore the Pioneer Settlement.

The next building is the Holdeman Church which was originally a Menonite Church from the local town of Pettisville and was once known as the Church of God in Christ Mennonite. It is here where the horse and buggy ride originates and requires a small additional fee.

The Little Pioneers Homestead is specifically geared towards young children and their families. There is a small cabin, Mary-Anne’s cabin and Miller barn where they can milk the cow.

One of my favorite parts of the day was finding a baby bunny in the Discovery Garden!

The Blacksmith Shop was temporarily closed.

The Harvesting Building is another special event space and location for group lunches and picnic space.

The Tiffin River Woodworks is a workshop where wooden products, including toys, are made and Cider Mill is only used in the month of September during Sauder Village’s Apple Week.

It has taken me the full day to explore Sauder Village and I have had such an awesome day exploring this gem of northwest Ohio!

I have reentered the welcome center where I find the Greenburg Gallery exhibit that provides more detail about Erie Sauder, Sauder Village and the making of this spectacular attraction.

In addition to the village, there is a campground, the Barn Restaurant, Doughbox Bakery and Sauder Store and Outlet within walking distance. With so much to experience, one could really spend a long weekend here.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sauder Village? What was your favorite sight or activity while you were here? 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:

Sauder Village Living History and Farm
221611 OH-2
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 419 446 2541

Admission Fee: Adults: $24; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $18; Children, Ages 3 and under: Free; Seniors 60 and over: $22. person is permitted. 2-day Admission: Adults, $38; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $26; Valid for 2 consecutive days, non-transferable. AAA Discount: $2
Hours: Spring (May 3 – 27): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 3:30PM; Saturday 10AM to 4PM; Summer (May 31 – September 2): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 5PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Fall Hours (September 6 – October 8); Open Wednesday to Friday from 10AM to 3:30PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Length of the Tour: From 2 hours to 2 days.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes as you walk through time visiting historical buildings. Download the map ahead of time and plan your day. There are several classes and demonstrations that you won’t want to miss. While there are several small shops to visit, make plans to eat at the Barn Restaurant for down-home cooking.

Where to Stay:

Sauder Heritage Inn
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

If you are traveling by RV, make reservations at the Sauder Village Campground.

Where to Eat:

The Barn Restaurant
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

Select the buffet or order from the menu loaded with down-home recipes.

What to Eat:

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Soups and Salads
Fried Chicken
Roast Beef Dinners

What to Read:

Heritage of the Black Swamp, by Cynthia Covert Harger

Photo Guide to Sauder Village

Visit Sauder Village in the spring for newborn baby animals

Making Friends with the Early Ohio Settlers at Sauder Village, Part 2

31 October 202314 May 2025

I spent the morning visiting the historical buildings located on the Village Green and those in the outer perimeter. The structures built in the early 20th century include the 1920’s Grime Homestead, Building 19 on the Complex Map. This has been such a fabulous, educational experience learning about the history of each of the buildings as well as exploring the items that are inside relating to the type of building, shop or museum. I hope you have had the opportunity to read Part 1 of my Sauder Village blog to put this amazing complex in perspective and to understand Sauder Village’s beginnings.

Celebrating forty years as Ohio’s Largest Living History Destination, the Village is an amazing replica of a small town dating between the years 1803 to the 1920s. From the Natives and Newcomers Exhibit to the Pioneer Settlement there are close to forty buildings that will give you a glimpse of a time in US history with abundant growth and change.

The 1920s Grime Homestead looks practically like any other farm house that one would see in Ohio. A beautiful representation of our country’s “Modern Era”, this home is very similar to those we would see today without many of the technological advancements.

Friendly costumed guides are staged throughout the structures, replicating the activities of daily life at this time. Inventions, such as the gas range reduced the amount of time to prepare family meals. Our guide explained the process of gathering the ingredients of the meal using items the farm such as flour and eggs. Using the appliances and kitchen gadgets from that era, she explained the steps to ready her meal and offered samples of the pie she had prepared in advance.

The dining room, located off of the kitchen also served as a casual family room. Furniture included a table and chairs, a couch, phonograph and radio as well as wall decorations. Unlike the prevous rooms, this floor was carpeted. I learned that carpeting symbolized the wealth of a family, able to afford some of the nicer things in life and were considered well-off financially.

Entering the parlor, I was immediately drawn to the upright player piano reminiscent of the one I had as a child. This space in the house was set aside for entertaining guests and housed the more delicate possessions of the family, such as expensive furniture and family heirlooms.

The master bedroom, typical of one that you would find in the 1920s, was simple yet functional. The women loved vanities and dressing tables with benches. During this era, it was not uncommon to find furniture made out of veneer to help reduce the cost.

Downstairs, the large cellar served as a pantry and cooler for storing meat and milk. Because grocery stores were not as readily accessible in the 1920s, the lady of the house would can fruits and vegetables then place them on shelves until she was ready to use them.

The cellar also housed the laundry for cleaning of the clothes, hanging them out to dry and then ironing them on a regular basis.

Exiting the cellar into the outdoors was a garden, storage shed and outhouse. A garden’s size was based on the number of family members in the home as the produce was used to feed the family.

Before reaching the festival barn, I passed the garage that held the tractor. This was the first motorized vehicle on the property. I was so excited to see all of the farm animals and spent most of my time in this part of the village.

There are horses….

Cows….

Pigs…

Turkeys…

and chickens…but my favorite of all of the animals was…..

the baby lambs!

The Festival Barn is used strictly for entertainment purposes only holding special events, picnics and group lunches for visitors.

Over the bridge I arrived at Brush Creek Pottery where I found Mark Nafziger, the resident potter creating a bowl. With so many types of pottery on display, I browsed through the flower pots, vases, plates and decorative items exploring all of their designs and shapes.

Building 22 is a storage shed for employees only, but I can’t wait to visit the next building…the Ice Cream Parlor. A perfect time for a break, I ordered a single, hand-dipped ice cream in cookie dough on a sugar cone, super creamy and delicious.

Barbara’s Weaving Shop was closed, but on days that it is open, weavers use the barn’s frame loom to create beautiful items out of both threads and rags.

The water-powered grist mill at Sauder Village is one of the few that remain in the state of Ohio today. The process for producing corn meal is actually quite interesting. As the water is released from its source, it rushes over the wheel, turning the millstones inside to produce corn meal.

What fascinates me about this exhibit is that there are so many products that can be turned into flour or meal. An in-depth information sheet outlines how the mill works and the interactive display describes what is needed to ensure the mill runs smoothly.

I purchased a bag of fresh corn meal to compare the fresh meal with a box for making homemade cornbread.

About a minute walk from the Grist Mil is the Erie Express. I decided to board the 15 minute train ride along the north end of the park where I will see glimpses of the Natives and Newcomers as well as the Pioneer Settlement. The train ride costs $2 for the multiple rides throughout the day.

Once I disembarked the train and walked the short trip to the Natives and Newcomers exhibit. Covering the period between 1803 and 1839, I learn more about the pioneers who settled this region known as the Black Swamp area.

The Native American’s housing is surprisingly different than the teepee structures that I have seen in reading materials and during some of my travels out west. It seems so large and more rectangular in shape.

The wigwam was much larger than I had anticipated, but it was used to house two families here. In the center there was a partition that separatee each family, providing a little privacy.

During the time that these structures were built, the settlers and the natives were already developing a trading relationship in places that were called trading posts.

One of the more important items that settlers needed during the cold weather were animal pelts. Other items important for trade included pottery, guns, tobacco, whiskey and other items that were of interest to the trading parties.

From here, the walking path leads to the Pioneer Settlement that covers the years 1834 – 1890 when the Lauber family first arrived to this area. I am looking forward to reading more about the early settlers of the Black Swamp and to explore more of the personal lives of the residents of Fulton County. This part of my tour will be covered in Part 3 of my blog.

What to See and What to Do:

Sauder Village Living History and Farm
221611 OH-2
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 419 446 2541

Admission Fee: Adults: $24; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $18; Children, Ages 3 and under: Free; Seniors 60 and over: $22. person is permitted. 2-day Admission: Adults, $38; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $26; Valid for 2 consecutive days, non-transferable. AAA Discount: $2
Hours: Spring (May 3 – 27): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 3:30PM; Saturday 10AM to 4PM; Summer (May 31 – September 2): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 5PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Fall Hours (September 6 – October 8); Open Wednesday to Friday from 10AM to 3:30PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Length of the Tour: From 2 hours to 2 days.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes as you walk through time visiting historical buildings. Download the map ahead of time and plan your day. There are several classes and demonstrations that you won’t want to miss. While there are several small shops to visit, make plans to eat at the Barn Restaurant for down-home cooking.

Where to Stay:

Sauder Heritage Inn
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

If you are traveling by RV, make reservations at the Sauder Village Campground.

Where to Eat:

The Barn Restaurant
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

Select the buffet or order from the menu loaded with down-home recipes.

What to Eat:

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Soups and Salads
Fried Chicken
Roat Beef Dinners

What to Read:

Heritage of the Black Swamp, by Cynthia Covert Harger

Photo Guide to Sauder Village

Visit Sauder Village in the spring for newborn baby animals

Engineering Fabulous Wines, Vinoklet Winery

24 June 202323 September 2024

It was a beautiful day, so I planned a visit to Vinoklet Winery & Restaurant on Cincinnati’s Westside. As I pulled into the parking lot, I was more than surprised by the number of cars and was having a difficult time finding a parking space.

Vinoklet hosts a buffet style dinner over the weekends and is also a popular place for hosting events. That evening, there was a family reunion, a business dinner as well as a bachelorette party. I was incredibly grateful that the hostess found a small table for me in a corner when I explained I was interested in a wine tasting.

In addition to sampling wine, I decided to purchase the cheese tray which included Swiss, Cheddar and Pepperjack cheese, pepperoni, crackers and grapes. It was the perfect amount for the tasting, but I wished that I had booked a reservation for the buffet-style meal where fish, steak and shrimp were grilled to perfection served with salads, sides and decadent desserts.

There are a total of nine wines available for tasting, arranged from dry to sweet with the reds to my left and the whites on my right. I began my tasting with the Brother Joe, a cabernet sauvignon described as “A premium red wine made with cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and chambourcin grapes. Rich ripe flavors with an elegant finish”.

The Cincinnatus was next, which is a “dry red table wine made with Merlot and Chambourcin grapes. Vibrant flavor with a harmonious finish”. I picked up a bottle for our family cookout that weekend, knowing it would be perfect with steak.

I enjoyed the Sunset Blush and It was such a great, refreshing wine that I ordered a glass after my tasting. This is a “semi-sweet wine made with Catawba, Vidal and Niagara grapes. Aromatic fruit with a zesty finish.”

The last red wine on the list was the La Dolce Vita, translated as “The Sweet Life” in Italian. It is a “sweet red dessert wine made with Chambourcin and Concord grapes. Soft and fruity to enjoy anytime”.

Halfway into my tasting, I had the privilege of meeting Kreso Mikulic, the owner of the winery. Checking in with his guests, he was enjoying a glass of wine. Making his rounds, he stopped by my table after coming in from outside and we chatted a few moments about his winery.

Kreso is originally from Croatia, where wine was a part of his everyday life. Just like many of the northern Italians, each of the members in his village grew their own grapes to produce wine for their families. He actively participated in the process as a child and has years of experience making extraordinary wines.

Kreso went on to become an electrical engineer, moving to the US and finding work with the General Electric Aviation division. He is credited with a variety of patents for the aerospace industry. Once he retired, he opened the winery in 1980 and has been hosting guests in Colerain for nearly forty years.

Sunset Blush

Continuing with my fifth sample, I learned that the Traminette is a grape blend of the Seyve, a French American hybrid with the vitis vinifera of German descent. It is the next wine on my list and described by Vinkolet as a “premium wine with spicy characteristics of honey and florals”. The taste was strongest towards the back of the tongue.

Tears of Joy is definitely a drier wine and is made with Vidal Blanc grapes. It is “crisp and full of flavor yet soft to the palate”. It was a little too dry for me, but I really enjoyed the Dreamer, a semi-sweet wine made with Vidal Blanc grapes and an Ohio favorite, the Niagara. The winery labels it as “perfectly balanced and delicate to the taste.”

In Vino Veritas was another favorite wine at Vinoklet Winery. Also made with Niagara and Vidal Blanc grapes, this is sweeter than the Dreamer and would be a great wine to enjoy on a summer afternoon.

Passion was the last wine in the tasting and was absolutely delicious. I couldn’t resist and had to purchase a bottle to enjoy at home.

What I liked most about the winery was that it is also a restaurant and banquet facility. Located on rolling hills, I enjoyed walking out to the acres of vineyards that would soon produce grapes over the summer months. Relaxing at the bonfire after dinner is a favorite pastime with many of Vinoklet’s customers and the sunsets from here are absolutely breathtaking.

The Weekend Dinner option includes the buffet and there are Weekend Grillouts over the summer months offering a wide selection of meats. In the evening, the winery sets up the fire pit when the weather permits.

Vinoklet Winery is the perfect location to enjoy an evening meal or celebrate a special event. With the scenic views, delicious foods and award-winning wines, we found the winery more than exceptional. What makes Vinoklet so special is also memorialized in Kreso’s philosophy. When it comes to wine, “the best wine is the wine that pleases you the most”, and at Vinoklet Winery there are so many award-winning options from which to choose. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to make wines, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to be an engineer.

Have you visited Vinoklet and do you have a favorite wine from the winery? Do you have a favorite Ohio winery? I would love to hear about it to experience it for myself. If you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below, that would be great! Many Thanks for reading about our evening wine tasting at Vinoklet and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Vinoklet Winery & Restaurant
11069 Colerain Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45252
Telephone: 513 385 9309

Hours: The winery is open from noon to 5 PM on Tuesday, noon to 8 PM on Wednesday and Thursday with wine tastings from noon to 4 PM, noon to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday with wine tastings from noon to 4 PM, from 1 PM to 5 PM on Sunday. The winery is closed on Monday. 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: Please note that the wine tastings are only provided during certain hours and are subject to change. As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn Cincinnati – Northwest/Fairfield
430 Kolb Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45014
Telephone: 513 942 3440

Where to Eat:

Enjoy the buffet at Vinoklet on Wednesdays and Thursdays or visit on Friday and Saturday nights for the opportunity to grill your own entree with a selection of side dishes, desserts and of course, wine!

On the Three Rivers Wine Trail: Rainbow Hills Winery

10 June 202323 September 2024

Driving to Rainbow Hills Winery along the winding dirt road, I could hear the sound of cicadas calling me towards the vineyards, while wooden directional signs were strategically placed along the route. Soon I approached the final bend in the road where beautiful vines greeted me with sumptuously ripe grapes.

Recognized as one of the wineries on the Three Rivers Wine Trail, Rainbow HilIs Winery resides in a beautiful rustic hideaway. With gorgeous flowers springing up throughout the landscape, and a beautiful fountain on the lawn, I was excited to sample some of the unique wines produced by Rainbow Hills.

The tasting area is to the far right, so I climbed the stairs leading up to the bar where I met winemaker, Bob. Since I was not familiar with a couple of the varietals on their wine list. he was extremely helpful in pointing me in the right direction after telling him the types of wine I prefer. He was spot on when I made my selections and I enjoyed every sample he poured as more visitors arrived for a tasting.

Rainbow Hills Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in Ohio, established in 1988. Founded by the late Leland (Lee) Wyse and his wife, Joy, this beautiful retreat sits on an 82-acre farm that offers fabulous views and promises a getaway of solitude and relaxation.

There is ample space indoors and out for sampling the wines produced by Rainbow Hills. The rustic interior of slate floors and sandstone walls is a beautiful setting for sampling the wines created onsite. Walkways and outlooks create the perfect opportunity for a stroll through the natural beauty of the winery’s surroundings. Joy has planted four-hundred flowers producing a splendid rainbow of colors while in bloom.

Back at the tasting bar, I started out with the Drumming Grouse which is a Concord semi-sweet wine. It has a beautiful color, a slight acidity and sells for $11.75 per bottle. It is a great wine for self-proclaimed non-wine drinkers, easy on the palate and an entry into broadening one’s wine appreciation.

The Trillium was a new wine that Rainbow Hills began producing about a year ago. A blend of Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc and Traminette, this combination makes a lovely semi-sweet wine.

My next selection is Ares and it is a perfect wine made of Ohio Foch grapes. This full body red is high in tannins and has a lingering finish.

Bob surprised me with a sample of their Pink Champagne. Served chilled, this is made for celebrations and summer outings. I purchased a couple of bottles of the Champagne because I loved the sweet berry taste.

My final sample is White Gold and according to Bob, this was the perfect year for this wine made from sweet Niagara grapes.

As I completed my tasting, I had the pleasure of meeting Joy Wyse. As she was enjoying a glass of Ohio Chardonel, her favorite wine, I mentioned I had visited Yellow Butterfly Vineyards and learned about Lee’s contribution to this winery’s success. Many other wineries have praised Lee for his willingness to help new winemakers. I wished I could have met him.

As I was ready to leave, I noticed the winery was preparing for their summer cookout. Provided every Friday and Saturday night during the summer, visitors can select a NY Strip or Boneless Chicken Breast with side dishes. Reservations required. The winery is open all year, Monday through Saturday, while the Bed and Breakfast is available seven days a week.

I had a wonderful time visiting Rainbow Hills Vineyards and look forward to an opportunity to return when I can stay overnight. I would have loved to have explored the grounds in more detail and maybe to have had the chance to catch a glimpse of Bigfoot. Newcomerstown is said to be home to this legendary furry beast, so you never know what surprises may await you with a stay at Rainbow Hills Winery, Bed and Breakfast.

What to See and What to Do:

Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305

Many thanks to Bob for his hospitality and assistance with my wine selection and a thank you to Joy Wyse for her generosity as well! Please note that all comments provided were based solely upon my own opinions and experience.

Where to Stay:

Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305

Because the hours of operation are set seasonally, ensure that you check the Rainbow Hills Winery website for the most up-to-date information.

Rainbow Hills Winery is also a bed and breakfast!

Where to Eat and Where to Drink:

Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305

Make reservations for Friday and Saturday night at 5:30 to grill your own dinner. Rainbow Hills will supply the sides which include baked potato, salad, rolls and chocolate cake for dessert.

Railroad Restaurant & Saloon
509 Main Street
Coshocton, OH 43812
Telephone: 740 575 4151

It was a day to try some fried food and I could not pass up the opportunity to try the deep fried pickles because I prefer the chips over the spears. The spicy cajun dipping sauce was the perfect condiment. I also ordered the lobster bisque which was creamy, delicious and full of lobster meat.

Featured Ohio Winery: Markko Vineyard

9 January 202317 May 2025

Conneaut is about as far northeast as one could possibly drive in the state of Ohio. It is also home to one of the oldest wineries, so I set out to spend a weekend in Ashtabula and Lake County to visit as many wineries as possible.

As I approached Markko Vineyard, and after driving around in circles for a half an hour, I finally called for directions. I began to see acres of vineyards surrounding me and felt comfortable that I would arrive at any moment. As I drove up the gravel driveway, I felt as though I was entering a secret society, tucked away in the Sherwood Forest, hidden by tall oaks and maples, welcomed by stone pillars.

I began my tasting with the 2013 Reserve Chardonnay. Described as “typical Linda elegance, fruit finesse”, a bottle sells for $36 per bottle. I noted that this wine was a little acidic, but smooth. The 2012 Reserve Chardonnay was a bit smoother and I preferred it over the 2013.

My final tastings included the Pinot Noir 2012 Reserve which is “fruity with a hint of currant with a crisp, nice finish.” I enjoyed the body of this wine as it did not feel weighty but light. I continued with the Pinot Noir wines, a 2013 Reserve, “light red, fruity, medium body balanced”. I enjoyed the earthy, fruity finish of this wine which sells for $30 a bottle.

There were several wines available to include Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Cabernet Sauvignons, a Johannisburg Riesling, non-vintage wines and a dry Champagne.

Excelsior is a 1993 Champagne Brut made from “Riesling sekt for majestic celebrations in both red and white.”

The 1999 Late Harvest Select Reserve Chardonnay sounded lovely, “rich floral honey, unctuous “like Ice Wine”, selling for $75 per bottle.

More recent vintages of Markko’s Chardonnay begin in 2009 described as having a refreshing finish, smoky pears, while the 2010 provided spice, citrus and a bright finish. They were selling their 2012 Select Reserve Chardonnay for $36 a bottle described as “pear, melon, light opulence, complex finish that will grow with age.

Markko Vineyard also produced several Cabernet Sauvignon selections starting with its 2012 Reserve with cherry berries and restrained long elegance and their 2012 Select Reserve with dark fruits and a delicate complexity. These wines are priced at $33, $36 and $39 per bottle respectively. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon reserve was described as “dark berries, garden glory lingers”.

The 2009 Johannesburg Riesling was described as light fruit, dry, hint of pine, selling for $27 per bottle.

In addition to the two Pinot Noirs I had sampled, the vineyard also sold a 2009 Majestic Reserve for $27 per bottle with “currant flavors, spices, sandlewood and almond, finesse suspended.”

Producing a line of non-vintage wine under the name “Covered Bridge”, the estate provides an $18 Riesling, a Chardonnay for $21, the Picnic White for $18 and a $12 wine named Picnic Red.

Arnie Esterer planted his vineyard in 1968 making Markko one of the oldest wineries in the state of Ohio. The wines on this estate are some of the best I have ever sampled. Arnie takes pride in the science of making wine and works each year in perfecting his craft.

To compliment your wine tasting or to order with a bottle to enjoy on their patio, Markko Vineyard also provides cheeses from Mayfield Road Creamery and their own Gouda and Camembert.

Directions:

Off of Interstate 90, take exit 235 (route 193) north ½ mile to the first stop light, Main Street. Turn right (east) on Main Street for approximately 3 miles; You will be close when the road turns to gravel. Take first driveway on left (north side) back into the woods.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Markko Vineyard? What was your favorite wine? 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 wonderful experience at Markko Vineyard and wishing you many Happy Travels! Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Markko Vineyard
4500 S Ridge Road W
Conneaut, OH 44030
Telephone: 440 593 3197

Because the winery hours of operation are seasonal, please reference the winery’s website prior to visiting the winery.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express Ashtabula – Geneva
1831 Austinburg Road
Austinburg, OH 44010
Telephone: 440 275 2020

Where to Eat:

Biscotti’s Restaurant
186 Park Avenue
Conneaut, OH 44030
Telephone: 440 593 6766

Serving Italian cuisine, I ordered the Medallions Gorgonzola Alfredo to try their homemade Alfredo sauce, so rich and delicious.

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

Featured Ohio Winery: Soine Vineyards

19 December 202218 May 2025

Update: Soine Vineyards is now R&S Vineyards

Ten minutes north of Powell, Ohio is is one of the state’s original wineries, Soine Vineyards. Family-owned and operated, Soine was established in 2003.

Traveling the rural backroads on a beautiful summer day, I approached the gravel driveway surrounded by vines. It was too early for harvest, but there appeared several clusters of grapes on each plant. So far, it was looking to be a great harvest year.

The tasting room and production center are located at the end of the drive. I parked my car and entered to find Eric preparing for a busy weekend of wine tasting. He made some time to talk with me about history of Soine, the varietals they are growing in their vineyards and poured a few small samples.

While Eric manages the winery, his parents, Tim and Sandy help with the vineyard and greet the incoming visitors. A charming and kind couple, they were preparing for several reservations that afternoon.

The Monticello III, Coshocton, Ohio

24 October 202217 May 2025

A short distance from Roscoe Village in Coshocton, Ohio is a pathway leads to a canal. Once a waterway where goods were transported between Lake Erie and the Ohio River, it is now a historical landmark in remembrance of the Canal Days. This fascinating piece of history measured 308 miles with 146 lift locks.

The project to build the canal (“the big ditch”) began in the 1820s, taking a decade to build. Initially connecting the city of Akron with the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, the project expanded to include access to the town of Portsmouth along the Ohio River. The canals were an integral asset for the transportation of good until the invention of the railroad, causing its decline. In addition, the flood of 1913 resulted in absolute destruction of several areas along the canal and any plans to restore the canal systems was completely abandoned.

Sections of the Ohio and Erie Canal were placed under the management of Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources as preservation efforts were underway. Visitors today can stroll down the 1-mile towpath along the canal or board the horse-drawn Monticello III for an historical experience. The canal boat, located near Roscoe Village, is available for tours on weekends starting Memorial Day through mid-October.

Within steps from Roscoe Village is a bike path that leads under a bridge to Lock Number 27. The Monticello III was out for a tour, so I strolled the path to pass the time. A small crowd began to form and we watched as the canal boat tied up and fed its team of horses.

Nearby picnic tables are available for guests who want to pack a picnic lunch.

Draft horses or mules pulled the boats while “hoggees” drove them to pull the barges along Mudport Basin, a small section of the Walhonding Canal. It was their job to ensure the horses did not fall into the canals.

The helmsman would remain aboard the boat to steer it with the tiller, a long piece of wood which was connected to the rudder.

I descended the short set of stairs and found a bench at the front of the boat. Looking out onto the green murky water, I could see dragonflies and water striders. Bubbles reached the top of the water and a fish or two would appear at the top, then seem to dive below to catch some shade from the boat.

We were free to walk around the boat until launch. I stood towards the front thinking about the 305 miles it would have taken to reach the Cuyahoga Valley. I imagined families and children lining the path to welcome the incoming goods and feeding the draft horses a carrot or two.

The horses had taken a small rest and were watered to prepare for the next set of guests. The weather was a beautiful seventy degrees, with a gentle breeze rustling the trees.

The Monticello weighs in at 25 tons and measures 74 feet long and 14 1/2 feet wide. Slowly drifting its way down the canal, we learned from the Captain of the Monticello that the canal measures 26 to 40 feet wide and would have taken about 80 hours to ride from start to finish. Luckily today we would be taking a 45 minute ride.

He also explained that the Canal was dug by hand and took seven years to complete.

Roscoe became the fourth largest wheat port along the 350-mile canal system and was a thriving town until the 1860s. The canal continued to operate even as railroads were increasing in popularity until the Great Flood of 1913, swept parts of the town away.

With the vision of local businessman, Edward Montgomery, we can appreciate Roscoe Village as a beautiful reminder of the Canal era and its historical significance. In 1968, the Toll House was the first structure to undergo restoration. Montgomery is credited for the preservation and revitalization of Roscoe Village with his vision of building a “living museum so that people of the 20th century…could enjoy” and has become quite the tourist destination.

What to See and What to Do:

Canal Boat Landing Address
23253 State Route 83 North
Coshocton, OH 43812
Telephone: 740-622-7528

Admission Fee: General: $8.00; Seniors (ages 60+): $7.00; Students: $6.00; Children: 5 & under – FREE; Veterans & Active Duty Military with ID: $5
Hours: The Monticello III is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from Friday through Sunday departing at 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, and 4 pm. Check dates and times from Labor Day through the third week in October.
Amenities: picnic tables, parking, historical presentation, discounts, nearby restaurants
Length of Visit: Prepare to spend 2 – 3 hours, especially if you plan to visit Roscoe Village.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes. Going aboard the Monticello III may require some agility to board, so be prepared. The Canal Boat leaves promptly on the hour, so arrive in plenty of time before departure. The ride is typically 45 minutes in length as the horse-drawn Canal boat will turn around in the basin and return to the landing where guests boarded the boat. I purchased my ticket at the Visitor Center but there are two additional locations to pick up tickets: the Toll House, and the Canal Boat Landing.

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.