By 1812Blockhouse

Ohio Open Doors is back, the very successful statewide event that opens the doors to dozens of sites that connect Ohioans to their past.

The event takes place between September 9 to September 18, during which time building and landmark owners and operators open to the public for special tours and programs – all at no charge. It’s an opportunity to celebrate Ohio’s architecture and history.

North central Ohio is well represented, with nine sites open in Ashland, Crawford, and Richland Counties. 

The two Richland County experiences are included.

Open Doors: Richland County Courthouse Cupola Recovery

View the 1908 Richland County Courthouse cupola at the Richland County Historical Society’s warehouse where it is being stabilized and studied for its future display.

This artifact of the tinsmith’s trade was recently rediscovered by preservationist and courthouse aficionado Steve McQuillin. It was made for the 1908 courthouse “improvements” atop the new clock tower on the c. 1870 building, taken down during the demolition in 1968, and relegated to the disposal site of courthouse debris on a farm near town. The cupola suffered as a firearms target during its days on the farm in addition to the corrosion that had already eaten away at it and the damage from its removal from the courthouse roof. It is not in pristine condition to say the least.

Come have a look and learn more about the tower, cupola, Lady Justice, and the courthouse they adorned.

  • Location: Oak Hill Cottage Warehouse – 64 Surrey Road Mansfield
  • Date/Time: September 17 from  10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Shiloh Area Historical Society “Honoring Our Local Military Men & Women”

Shiloh Area Historical Society “Honoring Our Local Military Men & Women”

Open house to highlight Shiloh Area Historical Society’s military displays of uniforms, WWII memorabilia, some WWI, and the Civil War display. Walking tour to highlight exterior view of house believed to be part of the under – ground railroad system, Freedom Monument, and interior of museum’s military displays. Efforts to coordinate with town’s American Legion Post to be on hand during open house for Q & A are being pursued.

  • Location: 18 W. Main St. W Shiloh
  • Date/Time: September 16 from 1 PM to 3 PM

Two Ashland County locations are also opening their doors:

Open Doors: ACHS Off Limits Tour

Guests will embark on a self-guided tour of the Ashland County Historical Society’s hidden spaces. See the original cistern that the Cowan family used to disperse water throughout the house. Explore the basement of the Manor House that served as a summer kitchen for the Cowans. Hear about the tragic death of eight-year-old Grace Myers and see the jail cells that housed troubled boys during the Freer Home’s days as a Juvenile Detention facility.

  • Location: Ashland County Historical Society Museum, 420 Center Street, Ashland
  • Date/Time: September 11 from 10 AM to 2 PM

Open Doors: Hayesville Opera House

Visit one of Ohio’s older theaters; the Hayesville Opera House, built in 1886, is one of the best examples of a 19th century theater.

  • Location: 5 1/2 East Main Street Hayesville
  • Date/Time: September 10 from 2 PM to 4 PM

In Crawford County, Galion will have five sites open at the same time. “Galion Open Doors” will take place on Saturday, September 10 from 10 AM to 2 PM. 

Those sites are:

  • The Gill House – 342 Harding Way West
  • Galion Community Theatre –  137 Harding Way West
  • Galion Public Library – 123 N. Market St. (open 1 PM to 3 PM)
  • Hayden Helfrich Annex of the Galion History Center –  331 E Railroad St.
  • Big Four Depot – 127 N Washington St.

Photo: Galion’s Big Four Depot, open during Galion Open Doors

Send us your news — of an announcement, event,
club news, fundraiser – whatever! It’s easy to do online.

Become a 1812Blockhouse Newsroom Member, support independent media in Richland County, and get access to the new Super Richland! Details here.
You May Also Like

Own An Older Home? This Workshop Is For You!

If you live in an older home here in North Central Ohio,…

Ohio Civil War Show On Display May 6 And 7

By 1812Blockhouse One of the area’s largest Civil War and military themed…

When Mansfield Welcomed: Sir Harry Lauder

By 1812Blockhouse A man once described by Winston Churchill as “Scotland’s greatest…