Tag Archives: Ohio

The Historical Simon Kenton Inn in Springfield, Ohio

Growing up in Springfield, I was well aware of several historical names associated with my town.  From George Rogers Clark to Shawnee chief, Tecumseh, one name stands out in the history of our city, Simon Kenton.

Friend to Daniel Boone, Kenton traveled to Ohio from Virginia and settled on 50,000 acres of land between today’s Springfield and Urbana.   Building a cabin on the outskirts of Springfield, his former property is now the Simon Kenton Inn and was the first white settlement in the state.

As a result of financial hardship, Simon would lose the land, passing it down to the McCord family in the early 1800s.  In 1828, the land was divided into parcels and sold.  The Hunt family, having made their wealth in textiles, moved from Princeton, NJ and settled on land they had purchased from the McCords.

Katie had taken my reservation and kindly greeted me when I arrived.  I decided to visit on Wine Wednesday with $1 off glasses of wine and found a great wine that would pair nicely with my meal.  I ordered the High Note, a Malbec with cassis and raspberry fruit flavors with a touch of chocolate and sweet spice.  Reservations are highly recommended for Fridays and Saturdays, where waits can take up to thirty minutes.

The Inn offers live music on certain weeknights and weekends.  Enjoying the music and the beautifully restored historic home, I was introduced to current owner, Theresa Siejack.  Energetic and passionate about her new adventure, Theresa was eager to talk about Simon Kenton Inn and her life experiences that led her here.

The house had been empty for three years.  There were lots of potholes on the road and many trees were down.  There was only one lit candle in the window.

Because of the holidays, Theresa was unable to go inside of the home until mid-January but as soon as she was able to visit, she made an offer within 10 minutes.  At the time of purchase, the housing market was doing well and she was able to secure the money for the purchase. With no inspection, she purchased this dilapidated old house on four acres for 250,000.  She had a vision, becoming the third owner of this property.

Originally from Baltimore, Theresa’s parents died when she was young and she was raised by her grandparents until they too passed.  Brought up in foster homes, she would marry young and join the Air Force as a flight nurse.  She retired after thirty years and one day, realizing she wanted to run a bed and breakfast.

With plans to stay in Ohio, she found her first opportunity in South Charleston and later decided that she wanted to make a home in Clark County.  Driving on the outskirts of Springfield with a friend on a cold and rainy day in December, Theresa noticed that the property was for sale.

My meal had arrived and it was absolutely delicious selecting the pistachio crusted salmon and cheesy risotto.

I was happy to continue our conversation as Theresa detailed the defining moment when she knew she had to purchase this  beautiful place.  She explained that in between the process of signing the papers and meeting for the official close,  she would drive up to the property to watch the sunset and enjoy the view from atop of the hill.  One morning, she noticed a woman on the property who was throwing feathers in the air as if conducting a ritual of some sort.  Theresa went to meet with this mysterious woman.  What the woman would say, was a foretelling of Theresa’s ownership of Simon Kenton Inn.

This woman stated that Theresa was going to be the next owner of the house, just as the spirits had told her.  She mentioned Simon Kenton’s Indian name and explained that she, herself, was a descendent of the Shawnee.  Theresa knew that this was the confirmation she needed and thanked Barbara for her visit. They would become long friends and Barbara would be able to provide additional information about the property and its role in the lives of the Kenton and Hunt families.  Barbara was also instrumental in developing the logo.

Theresa mentioned that when she cleared the attic of the home, she found wooden crates with the name Ischy Hunt, who was part of the Hunt family.  They were most likely used to carry their belongings for the east all the way out to this area in Ohio.

The property had a barn towards the back, but it was falling apart and she felt it could potentially be a hazard as children liked to go back to check it out.  She had it imploded and the remains were buried in the spot where it once stood. During construction, Theresa lived above the kitchen and there were loft rooms above the laundry as well.

In 2005, the property underwent a 1.1 million dollar renovation and an expansion was added in 2009.  A breezeway was later built to connect the two.

Recently the Inn hosted a Craft Beer and Wine event during their anniversary where 160 people attended. With 52 wines and 27 craft beers from 7 Ohio wineries and 12 Ohio breweries, the event was a huge success.

The inn is also a popular wedding venue with a large, covered seating area, gorgeous setting for photographs and overnight accommodations.

Theresa has big plans for Simon Kenton Inn to include further expansion and more events.  I’m looking forward to seeing what she  has in store for this, beautiful, historic place where the spirit of the Indians still roam.

Have you visited Simon Kenton Inn?  Did you enjoy a meal here?  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 dinner and discussion with Theresa at Simon Kenton Inn and wishing you many Happy Travels.

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

What to Do and What to See:

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 399 9950

Where to Stay:

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 399 9950

Where to Eat:

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 399 9950

More favorite Springfield eateries:

  • Schuler’s Donuts:   Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
  • Simon Kenton Inn:  This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue.  With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
  • Guerra’s Krazy Tacos:  One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
  • Salato Deli:  I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
  • Le Torte Dolci Bakery;  Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
  • Mike & Rosie’s Deli:  This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink: 

What to Read:

  • The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
  • Springfield, Ohio:  A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
  • Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
  • Still Standing:  A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
  • Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:  

  • Hartman Rock Garden
  • Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
  • Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
  • Heritage Center of Clark County
  • Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
  • Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
  • Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Mound Cemetery in Marietta, Ohio

History enthusiasts visit Mound Cemetery in Marietta for its large number of American Revolutionary War gravesites as well as its ancient Adena Mound.  The cemetery was initially built in 1801 to protect the ancient burial site and is known for having the most American Revolutionary soldiers buried within this place.

A map of the soldiers buried at this location is displayed within the cemetery.

The grave of Rufus Putnam, who was the founder of Marietta, is located here.  He died in 1820 from causes unknown.

Within a complex known as the Marietta Earthworks, many of the mounds were destroyed when the city of Marietta was built in 1788.

The Adena Mound dates between 100 to 500 BC as part of a larger settlement of the Hopewell Indians,  It is thought that the Chieftains of this Indian tribe are buried here.  In 1990, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History conducted excavations at the site and confirmed the Conus mound was that of the Hopewell Indians.  A set of stairs was constructed so that visitors could climb up to the top of the mound and look out into the city of Marietta.  This space was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

Have you visited Mound Cemetery in Marietta, Ohio? 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:

Mound Cemetery
5th and Scammel Streets
Marietta, OH  45750

  • Admission Fee:  Free
  • Hours:  Mound Cemetery is open from dawn to dusk, year-around.
  • Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes for walking and taking the stairs to the top of The Mound.

Where to Stay:

The Hackett Hotel 
203 1/2 2nd Street
Marietta, OH  45750
Telephone: +740 374 8278

Where to Eat:

Boathouse BBQ
218 Virginia Street
Marietta, OH  45750
Telephone:  +740 373 3006

You have to try the Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese!  Amazing!

What to Read: 

A Guide to Historic Marietta Ohio, by Lynne Sturtevant

 

Piatt Castles: Mac-A-Cheek and Mac-O-Chee

Approaching the drive of Mac-A-Cheek Castle, I stopped in amazement of this beautiful limestone home located in West Liberty, Ohio.  Built by Abram Piatt between 1864 and 1871, the three story home took seven years to build with its spectacular towers, spacious interior and gorgeous gardens.  The home is exquisite both inside and out with an incredible exterior stone facade.  Beautiful hand-painted murals by French artist Oliver Frey adorn the walls and ceilings, reminiscent of gothic European castles and halls.

The Piatts arrived in Ohio from New Jersey when Abram’s father, Benjamin M. Piatt, relocated his family to open his legal practice in Cincinnati. Later becoming a Federal Circuit Judge, Honorable Piatt would eventually resettle north of the city in rural Logan County until his death in 1867.

In 1828, Judge Benjamin Piatt purchased a large farm in West Liberty Salem called Macochee by the Shawnee Indians, the name of the Indian village that once stood here.  Additional displays showcase Native American artifacts as well as war relics and weapons.

Judge Piatt’s sons Abram and Donn built homes on this property in the late 1800s.  Abram’s brother Donn, completed his home ten years later and named it Mac-O-Chee located within a mile of Mac-A-Cheek.

Descendants of Judge Piatt lived in the castles up until 1985 where tours continued into the early 1990s.  Tours are available today to include “The Family Haunt” which takes place on Halloween night where literary works by the Piatt women are performed and on display.

Mac-O-Chee, now an Ohio landmark listed on the register of Historic Places, was purchased by the Cole family in 2019 with the intentions of preserving its history. Mac-A-Cheek Castle holds a wealth of historical exhibits from the Piatt Castles to include family portraits, furniture, Civil War artifacts and works of art covering 200 years of Ohio history.

Have you visited the beautiful architecture of the Piatt Castles?  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:

Mac-A-Cheek Castle
10051 Township Road 47
West Liberty, OH  43357
Telephone:  937 465 2821

  • Admission Fee:   $13 for adults; $7 for children ages 5 – 15; $11 for Seniors age 65+ and AAA discount.  The grounds and outdoor exhibits is free.
  • Hours:  Open seasonally, so check the venue’s website prior to your visit.
  • Amenities:  Self-guided tours, Exhibits, Special Events
  • Length of Visit:  1 hour

Where to Stay:

The Cabins at Maple Grove
5040 OH-29
Urbana, OH  43078
Telephone:  937 620 4952

Where to Eat:

The Syndicate
213 South Main Street
Bellefontaine, OH  43311
Telephone:  937 210 5165

With an amazing brunch menu, try the Big Bad Burrito with a Jalapeno Mimosa.

The Garst Museum – Currier & Ives

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and What to Do:

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

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

Where to Stay: 

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

Where to Eat: 

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

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

Where to Drink: 

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

What to Read:

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

The Garst Museum: Lowell Thomas

 

While visiting The Garst Museum, I found the life of Lowell Thomas to be very interesting.  Born in Woodington, Ohio, Thomas and his family moved to Colorado when Lowell was eight years old.  After graduating from the University of Denver, Lowell took a job at the Chicago Journal and became known for writing about rail travel.   When the United States became involved in World War I, Thomas left for Europe to write about the conflict.

Thomas would eventually travel to Palestine to write about the conflict, fascinating Americans back home.  He returned with video pictures of the Middle East and gained recognition for his reporting of British officer T.E. Lawrence, who was known for his role in the Arab Revolt.  The culmination of reporting would result in the movie, “Lawrence of Arabia”, which starred Peter O’Toole as T. E. Lawrence while Arthur Kennedy would play the role of Jackson Bentley which was loosely based on the life of Lowell Thomas.

Thomas would eventually became a radio commentator in 1929 and 1930 where he discussed his worldwide travels. While this lead to a program at CBS Radio Network, it was through television where Thomas would become known.  Travel would always be Thomas’ first love and when his wife Frances passed, he remarried Marianna and took a 50,000 mile honeymoon.  Thomas died four years later and is buried in Christ Church Cemetery in Pawling, New York.

Have you heard of Lowell Thomas or Lawrence of Arabia?  I would love to hear about your visit to The Garst Museum if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to the museum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

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

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

Where to Stay: 

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

Where to Eat: 

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

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

Where to Drink: 

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

What to Read:

  • History as You Heard it by Lowell Thomas, by Lowell Thomas
  • The Voice of America, by Mitchell Stephens
  • Back to Mandalay, by Lowell Thomas

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and What to Do:

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

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

Where to Stay: 

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

Where to Eat: 

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

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

Where to Drink: 

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

What to Read:

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Garst Museum and Greenville’s Early Beginnings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and What to Do:

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

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

Where to Stay: 

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

Where to Eat: 

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

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

Where to Drink: 

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

What to Read:

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and What to Do:

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

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

Where to Stay: 

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

Where to Eat: 

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

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

Where to Drink: 

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

What to Read:

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

Visiting Lehman’s Store in Ohio’s Amish Country

Fascinated by a simpler way of life, I was excited to visit Ohio’s Amish Country in Holmes County, Ohio.  Sharing the road with horse and buggies, one of my first stops was Lehman’s Hardware which caters to the local Amish community.

Pulling in to the big red barn, I had created a list of items that I wanted to seek out while in the store.  Wood burning stoves, custom-made furniture and old fashioned treats were a few of the interesting goods that were available for sale.

Lehman’s first opened in 1955 in the town of Kidron and has continued to grow reaching nearly a quarter of a mile for those who explore every department of the store, measuring 35,000 square feet.  The store has become a worldwide phenomenon for providing non-electric goods.

Most fascinating was the incredible art installation by Paul Weaver.  Weaver’s large-scale wood carvings are displayed at Lehman’s and his 3-D masterpieces are remarkable.  He has an incredible talent for depicting simple, everyday scenes of the Amish as well as spiritual settings.  Perfecting his craft for over forty years, Weaver is also a furniture maker.  Many of his furniture pieces are sold at Lehman’s as well.

I spent over an hour exploring all of the fascinating merchandise at Lehman’s and if I would have purchased all of the items that day, they would not have fit into my car.  Luckily, Lehman’s offers a catalog for orders, so I look forward to browsing their items and placing in order after returning home.

Have you visited Lehman’s in Ohio’s Amish Country?  Did you purchase anything?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Lehman’s and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Lehman’s
4779 Kidron Road
Kidron, OH
Telephone:  800 438 5346

Where to Stay:

The Barn Inn Bed and Breakfast
6838 County Road 203
Millersburg, OH  44654
Telephone:  330 674 7600

Where to Eat:

Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen
8101 State Route 241
Millersburg, OH  44654
Telephone:  330 674 0922

What to Read:

  • The Photograph, by Beverly Lewis
  • Fall from Pride, by Karen Harper
  • A Simple Christmas Wish, by Melody Carlson
  • 100 Things to Do in Ohio’s Amish Country Before You Die, by Brandy Gleason

Photo Guide for Amish Country:

  • Horse and buggies
  • Amish Families (ask permission)
  • Amish Countryside
  • Amish Furniture
  • Amish Food

 

 

 

 

Mastropietro Winery in Berlin Center, Ohio

It was a beautiful sunny day exploring Ohio’s Amish Country when I happened upon an Italianate winery in Berlin Center, Mastropietro Winery.  The winery is surrounded by acres of vines producing estate grown varietals such as Vidal Blanc, Chambourcin and Frontenac grapes, perfect for the winter temperatures.  In addition to these hearty Ohio grapes, the winery also brings in northern California fruit for expanding their wine offerings.

Mastropietro Winery was the first to open in Mahoning County in 2005.  In addition to wine, they offer a lovely selection of sangrias, slushies and dessert wine.  With a full service bar, visitors who may not be interested in wine, can purchase craft beers, snacks and appetizers.

Grandfather Joseph began making wine in their basement which led to starting their business.  Soon, Joseph’s son Daniel, wife Marianne and sister Cathy were supporting the winery as well and were making award-winning wines.

The winery and tasting room hosts a number of events.  In addition, there is a spacious banquet hall for private events such as weddings.  In the summer, they sponsor concerts, a balloon festival and car shows.

Arriving in the afternoon, I noticed the stunning Tuscan-style property with plenty of outside seating.  I had decided on a glass of Dolce Bianco to start and found the perfect place to admire the surrounding fifty-two acres and enjoy the welcome silence.  Firepits are also available for guests, perfect for the cooler spring and fall weather.

Mastropietro was a welcome stop on my visit to Amish Country and I look forward to returning for one of their summer events and to restock on the Dolce Bianco.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Mastropietro Winery?  Which wines did you sample?  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 visit to Mahoning’s Mastropietro and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mastropietro Winery
14558 Ellsworth Road
Berlin Center, OH 44401
Telephone:  330-547-2151