Places to go and things to see by Gypsy Bev

Spring Creek Psalteries Creates Beautiful Sound

April 14, 2024

 

Sharon and Terry have hours of enjoyment playing their psalteries.

Inspiration often appears when least expected. That was the case for Terry and Sharon Kirby when they attended Dulcimer Days in Roscoe Village. As they walked several times by a booth from Beckley, WV, they heard an amazing sound that they loved, bought a CD, and Terry was on his way to a new career.

After being a contractor for thirty years, Terry was ready for a change but he didn’t know anything about music. When they heard the sound of the Bowed Psaltery Symphony on that CD, they wanted to purchase a psaltery for themselves. Since they had no idea how to play one or even hold one, they drove to Beckley, WV to get some instructions and a new instrument. Sharon played it all the way home. By the time they got home, a call was made to Beckley for another psaltery.

After they became familiar with the psalteries, two or three nights a week they would play at nursing homes. They added some sticks and shakers to get the residents to participate along with them. In those early days, “The Parting Glass,” a traditional Scottish song, became one of his favorites on the psaltery…and still is.

Terry and Sharon were part of the Bowed Psaltery Symphony for many years.

For many years, they both played in the Bowed Psaltery Symphony at Cedar Lakes in Ripley, West Virginia where they were first chair in their sections. This group consisted of 30-60 players of all levels and many often brought additional instruments to enhance the performance.

Locally, they formed the Spring Creek Band, which consisted of a variety of instruments including the psaltery, flute, guitar, ukulele, dulcimer, and drums with vocal music included. They played at many church events as well as Dulcimer Days. They were learning more about music each step of the way.

After many performances and much research, Terry decided to build a psaltery with better sound. When Terry makes a decision, you can be sure it is going to happen to perfection.

Terry constructs the psalteries in his workshop.

So, about twelve years ago, he created Spring Creek Psalteries at his shop in Massillon. There he began building the psalteries himself. Terry and Sharon then began attending festivals all over the area where they played and sold their psalteries from May through December. Often they would sell out of the ones they had made and either had to leave a festival early or cancel. They wanted to bring the joy of playing the psaltery to everyone who loves music.

Terry always attracted attention at the festivals by playing familiar songs.

The great thing about the psaltery is it can be played by young and old alike. Terry says it is one of the easiest instruments to learn. You don’t need to read music and you can only play one string at a time with a soft stroke of the bow.

These handcrafted psalteries bring Terry a lot of joy. His favorite pastime is making psalteries in his workshop. He has constantly strived to improve the quality of the sound. Sometimes he works on them from 7 in the morning until 10:30 at night. That’s much more enjoyable to him than watching television.

There are records of a psaltery in Psalms but that one was a trapezoid shape so the strings could be plucked. In 1948, a German violinist brought a psaltery to the United States for the first time. He had changed it to a triangular shape so the strings could be bowed.

That later shape was the one Terry developed into his own special instrument, which has great sound. He credits that sound to three special things.

  1. The top of the psaltery is called the soundboard. Terry makes it from a soft Sitka spruce, which he gets shipped directly from Alaska. He feels spruce gives a nice, mellow sound that is richer and brighter.
  2. Three different string gauges give a more even sound vibration.
  3. Pegs get wider as the string gets longer so you get the correct vibration sound.
A variety of rosettes make an attractive addition to the psalteries.

Sound holes use different rosettes, which Terry creates in his shop. They might look like an owl, hummingbird, musical notes, or the favorite – a tree of life.

While the tops of soundboards are made of Alaskan Sitka Spruce, the backboards are primarily Curly Maple, and the sideboards of Sapele. Then six or eight coats of lacquer are used on each psaltery to create a beautiful finish.

Terry was working on this cello, which will be sent to Montana.

Before selling or ordering a psaltery, Terry asks the customer if they are right or left handed as the strings must be arranged in a different manner. He also needs to know if they want a violin or cello sound.

The Serenity Harp produces a relaxing sound.

Their newest Cello Psaltery sustains the sound. Whole notes are on one side while sharps and flats are on the other. A Serenity Harp produces a peaceful sound that is often used for meditation and therapy.

These accessories are useful to new psaltery players.

Each bowed psaltery comes with a tuning wrench, rosin, horse hair bow, removable note markings, and booklet. Special noted songbooks make it easy for everyone to play without having to read music. They also have soft-sided, padded cases available for an extra charge. If you mount the psaltery on a stand, you can double bow and create your own harmony.

Sharon and Terry attended the Salt Fork Arts & Crafts Festival for many years.

Spring Creek Psalteries has displayed their instruments at festivals all over the area from Salt Fork Arts & Crafts Festival and Y-Bridge Festival to Roscoe Village and Shaker Woods. They always had a variety of psalteries on display and gave you a chance to play one of them. That way you could see how easy it is to learn.

Yankee Peddler Festival was another place they displayed and sold their psalteries.

Their 25-note, handmade psalteries are available at affordable prices. They also have a wound string psaltery that has more the sound of a cello and is tuned an octave lower. Their 9-note psaltery is excellent for beginners and is small enough for children to hold. Grandparents often purchase this one for their grandchildren.

You can double bow a psaltery by the use of a tripod and stand.

Now, Terry and Sharon have both retired and are enjoying a little free time to perhaps have time to play music with friends. Terry is also coaching his grandson’s Little League team. An idea occurred to him that a country cabin would be nice where he could use his telescopes to view the stars more clearly. Yes, Terry builds his own telescopes, also.

The cabin developed into a bigger project because Terry likes to have everything cut and trimmed as well as a garden. A special project involves his hummingbird feeders, which he cares for himself, and even boils the hummingbird syrup.

Sharon and Terry were winners of the Canoe Race at Canal Fulton in their early years.

An interesting pastime, that they are hoping to revive, began in the ’70s and ’80s when they competed in Championship Canoe Races. At that time they were the Ohio State Champion mixed team and broke all kinds of records. Races were held at places like Canal Fulton, Bob Evans Farm, and Marietta. Terry also participated in a Triathlon, which consisted of biking, running, and canoeing. He always strives to be the best he can be.

A psaltery door chime is a welcome addition to any home.

They will not be participating in the festivals for now but are still making and selling things from the many calls they receive. Spring Creek Psalteries are shipped all over the United States. If you would like more information, call them at 330-323-0618 or email them at tsakirby@sssnet.com.

Terry followed this bit of advice throughout life. “Do well at whatever you do.” That has certainly worked well for him and is a goal we should all attempt to reach.

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Music, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Historic Structures Remain in Freeport

March 27, 2024

Older pictures are from the files of the Puskarich Public Library and newer ones were taken by the author.

Freeport was off to a great start as the population increased and homes were built in 1907.

Small towns almost always have an interesting background and a few historical spots. Freeport might surprise you with its history that still lives on today.

In 1913, those rivers caused a major flood in Freeport and in the surrounding areas.

The name Freeport began when the town served as a free port on Stillwater Creek to ship produce toward settlements along the Tuscarawas River, which joined the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers. The swift currents on these small rivers were easy for the Native Americans to use in their canoes but became more difficult for carrying produce. Today Little Stillwater Creek makes up part of the Tappan Lake Watershed.

Gentlemen were well dressed as they waited for the train at the B&O Depot in 1900.

Before long, the Ohio-Erie Canal solved some of those shipping problems, but it came to an end when the railroads came to town. The B&O had a depot in Freeport and it was one of the two last standing stations in Harrison County along with the one at Scio.

Freeport Band Concerts were popular in Shady Side Park in 1910.

The plat for Freeport Ohio was laid out in 1810 in Tuscarawas County but brought into Harrison County in 1819 due to a county boundary change. It’s also on the edge of Guernsey County. A post office has been in operation in Freeport since 1814.

The historical Reaves Home is now the Clark Memorial Branch of Puskarich Library.

One of the founders of the town was Daniel Easley, who built a brick house in the late 1800s. He later sold to John Reaves, who was a teacher and the first Harrison County resident to die in the Civil War. His home, still known as the John Reaves House, is on the National Register of Historic Places, is the oldest structure in Freeport, and considered an architectural wonder. In 1888, it was home to the first bank in Freeport. Since 1991, it has housed the Clark Memorial Branch of the Puskarich Public Library. In 1998, a Children’s Wing was added to the original building.

Freeport Lockup served as a jail from 1895-1937.

Freeport Lockup is a stone jail built in 1895 by the Starkey family. The stones were hauled by wagon from the Bill Rowland Stone Quarry. This jail was actually used until 1937 and still can be seen along the road leading into town.

This sixteen-sided barn is one of only three left in the US today.

Here you will find the only sixteen-sided barn in Ohio just one mile south of town. Built between 1916 and 1921 by John Stewart & Sons, it is one of only three sixteen-sided barns left in the United States. This rare type of barn originated from the design of George Washington, our first president. The Freeport barn is 60 ft. high and 60 ft. across with a 12 ft. silo in the center. Visitors are welcome anytime of the year by the owners, who have lovingly restored this historic barn. Nice to see that it is still in good use today.

This old Skull Fork Covered Bridge still stands today after nearly 145 years.

Skull Fork Covered Bridge built in 1876 is located near the barn on Covered Bridge Road. Legend has it that local Indians had kidnapped and murdered individuals whose skulls were found near the creek.] The scenic Buckeye Trail passes through this covered bridge and along the shore of Piedmont Lake. This trail goes through 44 of Ohio’s counties and covers over 1444 miles of a continuous loop encircling the state.

An expanded Freeport Press maintains its early front using local stone.

Freeport Press is family-owned and has served customers with quality print solutions since 1880 when it was established as a weekly newspaper by J.J. Ashenhurst. They are a major business today printing many high-end magazines, catalogs, and commercial print. In 1949, a new building was constructed using stone from the Freeport Stone Quarry on the front. Today there have been additions on both sides but that stone front remains the same. In January 2005, Mr. David G. Pilcher became the sole owner of Freeport Press, which employs over 200 people.

A mural on the side of the Freeport Fire Department shows an early horse-drawn fire engine.

Freeport Fire Department has a beautiful mural by Sarah Koch on the side of their building showing an early fire engine being pulled by horses. They have an annual festival that involves the entire community. It is held the last weekend in July and includes a parade, craft and vendors show, display of fire equipment, and of course delicious food in the form of a chicken barbecue and fish fry.

Piedmont Marina provides a handy spot to pick up fuel, boating and fishing supplies.

Drive to Piedmont Lake just a few miles southeast. The lake was created in 1933 to provide flood reduction as well as for conservation and recreation. It’s a great place for fishing and boating with Piedmont Marina providing boat rental, docking fuel, boating and fishing supplies as well as a lunch counter. There is also a nice renovated campground with electric hookups or you might prefer to stay in one of their vacation cabins. 4-H Camp there many years ago provided summer entertainment during my youth.

Today, Freeport has about 400 residents and many interesting spots to visit. Spend a few hours there and stop to eat at a local restaurant or spend a weekend at one of the local inns or Piedmont Lake. There’s nothing like the hospitality of a small town.

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History, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Colt Keith, Former Rolling Hills Schools’ Student, Signs 6-year Contract with Detroit Tigers

March 2, 2024

Colt Keith at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan received his Tigers’ jersey after signing the contract.

(Update! The article below appeared in Crossroads magazine last month. Since it was written, Colt Keith has signed a $26.8 million six-year contract with the Detroit Tigers, who said, “We are looking for people who care about winning and who are competing as hard in the gym and on the dirt in early work as they are in the batter’s box. That’s what we saw in Colt.” At this time he is enjoying Spring Training with the Tigers in Florida.)

Colt Keith was named Detroit Tigers Minor League Player of the Year in 2023.

“Take me out to the ballgame” is a call that Colt Keith has made throughout his life and it has led him to being named the Detroit Tigers Minor League Player of the Year for ’23 as reported by Baseball America magazine.

While visiting family over Thanksgiving, Colt talked to athletes at Buckeye Trail and gave them suggestions on how to become good at whatever field they chose. He encouraged them to follow their dreams while living a wholesome life without alcohol, drugs, or smoking involved. His advice was, “Stay away from that stuff.”

Buckeye Trail athletes and coaches heard pointers from Colt Keith at a recent meeting.

He explained the routine schedule that he keeps to stay in good physical condition and gave websites for workouts that would be helpful. Since Colt works out six days a week for at least two and a half hours, he feels exercise is very important for fitness and power. He told the athletes, “I love to work out.” The importance of eating nutritional meals and drinking lots of water was also pointed out. “You have to help yourself get better.”

Mindset is so important no matter what path you want to take. Colt told students, “Do what you want to do and do it better than other people. Have a positive, pleasant attitude. Work hard and love Jesus.”

Those in attendance had many questions to ask Colt after his presentation. He always gave honest personal answers and great encouragement. Everyone received his autographed baseball card.

Colt enjoyed baseball from a young age. Here he participates in ‘coach pitch’ baseball.

His passion for baseball began playing t-ball in Lore City. His elementary school years were spent in Rolling Hills School District where he also wrestled. However, once his parents noticed his great love for baseball, they moved to a spot where baseball could be played year-round.

Colt’s dad, Troy, Colt, Kait, and his mom, Mary all attended the signing in Detroit. His parents have been a constant source of encouragement throughout his baseball career.

Colt expressed great appreciation to his parents and coaches for being so supportive along the way. His dad, Troy, was a wrestler and became a teacher and wrestling coach at Meadowbrook while his mom, Mary, played college basketball and then became an attorney. Sports were always a big part of their family.

This Southern Utah team was yet another place where Colt experienced baseball.

First, they went to Utah and then to Arizona where Colt played baseball at the positions of shortstop or catcher with Verredo High School, which was not far from Goodyear – Spring Training grounds for several major league baseball teams. It was then he first had the idea that he would like to be drafted. “You have to have a goal.” While in Arizona, he was named High School Player of the Year.

While in Biloxi, Colt met his fiance, Kait.

Later they moved to Biloxi, Mississippi where he finished his high school years and met his fiance, Kait. While he was offered a scholarship to the University of Arizona, once he was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 2020, he decided to try that opportunity first.

A Guernsey County All-Star game was one of his early all-star connections.
The Guernsey County Miners were a championship team back in 2016.

Even though they moved, Colt always came back in the summer to play ball with his grade school friends. He remarked, “The Guernsey County Miners were the best team around back then.”

Toledo Mud Hens Player of the Week was one of his frequent awards.

While working his way up through the minor leagues, Colt played second and third base. Frequent awards came his way in the form of Player of the Week, Player of the Month, Best Single-game Performance, and a place on several All-Star teams.

This left-handed slugger has a fantastic career batting average of .303 and a .976 fielding percentage. In July, he moved up to the Toledo Mud Hens, a triple-A team. He remarked, “I batted and played my way up. I’m always anxious for the game to start.”

A typical ML Tigers announcer on July 23 said:

Colt Keith with a beautiful piece of hitting to find the hole and drive in the go-ahead run with 2 outs in the 8th. He’s 3-for-4 with a double, a sac fly, and 2 RBIs tonight. And he just stole a base.

At his first bat in triple-A against the Columbus Clippers, Colt hit a homerun.

A couple of his memorable moments were in ’22 when he hit a walk-off home run in Michigan, and then in ’23, he hit another walk-off home run in Erie. At his first bat in triple-A against the Columbus Clippers, he hit a home run.

Colt was selected from the Detroit leagues to participate in the Minor League All-Star game in Seattle.

Colt has played on two All-Star Teams recently. In ’19, he was chosen for the Future All-Stars where the top 30 high school baseball players from all over the United States played a game before the regular All-Star game in Cleveland. In ’23, Colt played in the Minor League All-Star game in Seattle. There were only two chosen from the Detroit leagues.

Now Colt’s looking forward to the future with the Detroit Tigers. After signing he told the press, “My mission is to be the best player possible and help win a World Series Championship for Tiger fans everywhere.”

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Arizona, Mississippi, Ohio, Uncategorized, Utah

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Hopedale – Yesterday and Today

February 13, 2024

Small towns often have an interesting history that helps us understand those early days in the settlement of Ohio. Hopedale in Harrison County is no exception.

The first settler there in 1800 was Phillip Delany, a hunter. He swam the Ohio River with his clothes tied on his head so he could buy a section from the Northwest Territory Land Office in Steubenville. He called his settlement Green.

This postcard shows a picture of Hopedale Normal College, the first co-ed college in eastern Ohio.

Later Delany sold the land to a resident of Beech Spring, Rev. Cyrus McNeely, who platted the town. His son, also Cyrus McNeely, changed the name of the town to Hopedale because of his high hopes for the schools there. He donated land in 1849 to begin Hopedale Normal College, the first co-ed college in eastern Ohio with tuition of $5 a month.

General George Armstrong Custer in his West Point uniform.

Horace Mann once taught there and General George Armstrong Custer was one of 10,000 who graduated from the college. Custer received a teaching certificate and taught in Cadiz. A year later, he entered West Point where he graduated in 1862.

That school grew and eventually included an elementary and high school. They had a six man football team called the Comets. Clark Gable went to school there, rode his sleigh down snowy fields, played in the band, and acted in plays.

Clark Gable’s home in Hopedale today from the Clark Gable files.

While Clark Gable was born in Cadiz, his family lived in Hopedale during his youth (1903-1917) at 197 Mill Street. Today that house still stands but is a private residence with no public access. His father came to Hopedale because of an oil strike in 1902.

Post card picture of Hopedale’s track laying machine at the Wabash Arch.

While the oil field brought some financial gain to the area, it was the coal located just under the surface where strip mining began that proved the real boon. But first they needed a railroad to haul the coal. The Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad was born with the Wabash Station being located in Hopedale as well as the Wabash Arch.

While the college is gone and even the high school that followed it, there is a house across the street from the city building that housed students at the Hopedale Normal College. The city building is actually located on the former grounds of the college and the brick building beside it is now being turned into a museum. A flagpole marks the spot where the college stood years ago.

Beech Spring Presbyterian Church near Hopedale was called “The Mother Church of Ohio.”

Another famous historical site was the Beech Spring Presbyterian Church near Hopedale. It was known as the “Mother Church of Ohio” because it supported the founding of many churches in Harrison and Jefferson counties during the 1800s. The church was torn down in the early 1960s but the cemetery remains. Phillip Delaney was buried there.

The Underground Railroad was very active in Harrison County. Hopedale played an active role in this, and many anti-slavery meetings were held there. The Columbus Dispatch reported that slaves were kept in the Kyle home, which was built by Cyrus McNeely. Delaney House is a farm homestead documented to have served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The building has a dry cistern connected to the main house by a tunnel. This was a great hiding place for runaway slaves and an important stop on the route to freedom.

This theater bill shared movies being shown in Hopedale Theater in 1938.

Hopedale Theater was built in 1925 by the Stringer Brothers. They showed the latest in moving pictures and continued in operation until the mid 1950s. Some of those early movies were Laurel and Hardy in Swiss Miss, Cassidy of Bar 20, and In Old Chicago. Today that theater has been turned into an Italian restaurant, Capraro’s.

The Motorcycle Memorial has stones engraved with names of fallen riders and a brick pathway giving recognition to donors.

A recent addition to Hopedale has been the Fallen Motorcycle Memorial, a monument to riders gone too soon. A Motorcycle Memorial Wall, similar to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, DC, contains names of brothers and sisters from all 50 states and other countries. The memorial is funded by the Motorcyclist Memorial Foundation, which cares for the memorial which is located behind the American Legion Post 682.

Milligan Memorials of Coshocton etched the Indian Black Stone, the darkest of all marbles, which stands atop a grassy knoll. The words written on the stone were written by Dan Waterfield of Oregon, Ohio. Anne Milligan etched the image of the man and woman riding their motorcycles on the winding road while Tim Milligan installed and etched the names of the loved ones lost on the gray pillars.

A granite full-size motorcycle sets at each end of the Memorial Wall.

Each end of the wall is bookended by a full-size 2-D motorcycle carved from that same black granite. The bikes can slide outward as new sections are added for fallen bike riders. In 1993, there were only two slabs with names. Today there are dozens of slabs listing names of bikers who have gone on.

The Motorcyclist Memorial was unveiled to the public in 1993. Now every year during Memorial Day weekend, they re-dedicate the wall and add more names to the granite pillars on each side of the monument. Nearly 1200 show up annually for this event. Be sure to stop by and visit the Wall if you find yourself in the Hopedale area.

Hopedale has a large ten-acre park with a playground and much more.

Hopedale today contains many family-friendly activities that make it a great place to call home. They have a beautiful ten-acre park that contains several picnic shelters, a basketball court, a tennis court, and a baseball field for the youth. Take an evening stroll on their walking/biking trail. Soon they will have a museum where you can learn more about their history. Plan a visit to this historic town sometime soon.

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Festivals, History, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Gross Mansion Through the Years

January 19, 2024

The Gross Mansion is still beautiful after over 100 years.

When driving down 7th Street in Cambridge, a mansion on the hilltop catches the eye of locals and the breath of visitors. Gross Mansion has been a place of beauty for over 100 years. While most know where it is, few know the history of the first family to call it home.

When Charles F. Gross from Washington County was twenty-one back in 1868, he worked in the oil fields of Ohio, West Virginia, and Oklahoma. He saved his wages and began buying shares of The Hill Oil and Gas Company, which was based in Columbus, Ohio.

During this time, he met the love of his life, Harriett Allender from Clio, a town now underwater at Salt Fork Lake. They married and lived on Clark Street in Cambridge.

The Gross Mansion was under construction in 1915.

Hill Oil and Gas Co. had extensive holdings in Oklahoma and Texas. Charles increased his shares steadily until he had one-fifth interest. The Cushing Field in Oklahoma consisted of 6,000 acres and produced 20,000 barrels of oil a day. When Charles sold his interest for $12 million, he had enough money to purchase some land in 1916 and begin building a house. Charles was the only millionaire in town at that time.

Charles became an active member of the community. He served on the board of directors of The National Bank of Cambridge until his death in 1942. His funeral was held at the Gross Mansion.

The front doors are beautiful anytime of the year.

Charles adored his wife, Harriett, and always tried to please her. Since Harriett had her heart set on having the nicest house in Cambridge, that was what Charles set out to accomplish. He purchased nearly a city block between Sixth and Seventh Streets in a residential area.

Notice the carved newel posts as you climb the stairway.

No cost was spared for this 12,000-square-foot home with 24 rooms. That was a mansion back in 1916. Even today it still shows qualities of richness with beautiful tile floors, walnut paneling, carved stone fireplaces, and a beautiful stairway with carved newel posts.

Harriette enjoyed her flowers, especially the azaleas.

Situated in a park-like setting, a winding carriage lane wove through a beautiful landscape of flowers and trees. Harriett loved her flowers, especially her azalea bushes, and Charles relaxed by working in the garden, a special time for him. He also enjoyed hunting and had several prize hunting dogs.

Charles built this library to please Harriette.

During the years the Gross family lived at the mansion, many recall the elaborate parties and weddings that took place there. Harriett enjoyed entertaining and having teas with friends as she was so proud of her home. She must have enjoyed reading also as Charles had a beautiful library built just for her. He wanted to make her happy.

Young Harriette spent time in the safe confines of the sunroom.

They had a daughter, also named Harriett, who attended 9th Street School. Teachers were served an annual dinner by the Gross Family. The children all remembered that day well since when the teachers went for their special lunch, school was dismissed for the rest of the day.

At Halloween, a friend who lived nearby remembered that trick-or-treaters, who were brave enough to approach the big house, were rewarded with a fifty-cent piece. She always planned a stop there!

A spiked fence was built for the safety of young Harriette.

Neighborhood children recalled seeing young Harriett riding her brown and white pony inside that tall fence around the mansion. That high fence had spikes all along the top of it to protect their only child. This happened shortly after the kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby. The Gross family feared that with their known oil well money, Harriet might be a target. They even had a hidden staircase built inside the house for easy escape and were most likely the first in town to have fire sprinklers in their home.

A personal memory as a young girl recalls my mother delivering fresh eggs and chickens, that she dressed that morning, to the back door of the mansion. Mom let me carry a couple dozen eggs while she took the chickens. Dad waited patiently in the car.

Step onto the original tile in the entryway.

Their daughter Harriett had her wedding at Gross Mansion when she wed Howell Bates, an ensign in the Navy. Later Harriett and Howell, who then lived in New York, would be the ones to sell the mansion in 1958, after her mother died in an automobile accident, at a very low price to the Cambridge YMCA.

When the YMCA moved to new quarters at the old Cambridge High School, the building sat empty for a while. Some wanted to tear it down, but locals who knew the history worked hard to keep that from happening.

Today the Gross Mansion is being restored to its original beauty.

The house was purchased in recent years by Lynn Bernard, a lady from Florida who fell in love with Gross Mansion and has made many improvements to restore it to its original beauty with the help of her friend, Jeremiah Miller. They are active in the community where Jeremiah is the manager of CORT – Cambridge Ohio Relief for Tragedies – and often goes to assist areas in the country where they are having tragedies such as floods and hurricanes. He’s always an advocate for those in need.

They have an annual Easter Egg Hunt and Rosie’s Girls have a Prom Dress Giveaway at the mansion. Decorating for Easter, Halloween, and Christmas brightens up the area. Drive by the Gross Mansion at 703 N. 7th Street to enjoy all the improvements being made. Perhaps you’ll be fortunate enough to attend a party, tea, or reunion there and see its beauty.

How nice to see life at the Gross Mansion once again.

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Cambridge, History, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Christmas Crackers – A Victorian Tradition

December 24, 2023

“Snap, crackle, pop” might have been popular in Victorian England – and not with a bowl of cereal. During the Victorian era, Christmas Crackers made that sound and were a popular gift item at gatherings. Even Queen Victoria and Prince Albert shared them with their nine children.

This is the cover of Tom Smith’s catalog where he sold many novelties.

Christmas Crackers all began with Tom Smith of London in 1847. He first used a twisted sheet of patterned paper to wrap his sugared almonds. When sales slipped, he began finding new ways to promote his candy and his business. His first idea was to include a romantic note.

Inside the cracker were a variety of gifts depending on who was to be the recipient.

When the note didn’t increase sales, Smith enlarged the size to a paper tube so it could hold something larger inside. Then wrapped it in festive paper fitting for the occasion This new improved cracker was launched for sale under the name “Bangs of Expectation.”

Imagine the excitement of waiting to see what special surprise was hidden inside.

Two people would hold the cracker and snap it, the “snap” being produced by the silver fulminate inside. The paper would “crackle “and out would “pop” a piece of candy, a trinket, fans, jewelry, and a piece of paper with an amusing joke or riddle.

What do you get if you eat Christmas decorations?

Tinselitis!

What do Santa’s little helpers learn at school?

The elf-abet!

His sons carried on the business after Tom died in 1869, never to see the real success of his cracker. His three sons – Thomas, Henry, and Walter – added a tissue paper crown to the cracker. This became a Christmas tradition in England, and when the tube broke apart, the person holding the longest end got to keep all the contents. The paper hats inside took the appearance of crowns, and were then worn at Christmas dinner. You had to wear your crown!

This Norman Rockwell painting of snapping Christmas Crackers was done in 1911.

Crackers were often used as table decorations but also present at Victorian teas with special ones made for the Queen’s family. It was even rumored that Queen Elizabeth enjoyed her Christmas lunch while wearing one of Smith’s crepe-paper crowns. Tom Smith, Ltd. still holds the Royal Warrant as Supplier of Christmas Crackers to the Royal Family.

In 2022, Tom Smith celebrated the 175th anniversary of the invention of Christmas Crackers. Today, they make approximately 17,000,000 Christmas Crackers a year. The Christmas tradition continues!

Maybe you would like to add a little “Snap, crackle, pop” to your Christmas by starting the Christmas cracker tradition with your family. Perhaps you’ll enjoy the little riddle inside as you place the crown on your head.

What’s a parent’s favorite Christmas carol?

Silent Night!

Category:

Christmas, Family Fun, Uncategorized

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Wild Lights at Akron Zoo

December 19, 2023
Bright lights greet visitors as they enter Wild Lights at the Akron Zoo. (Photos by Curt Kennedy)

The Akron Zoo turns into a Christmas extravaganza from November 24, 2023 to December 29 with “Wild Lights” every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. At this time of the year, there are many activities to help you enjoy one of the “wildest” holiday displays in Northeastern Ohio.

Lighted musical Christmas trees capture the hearts of many.

Almost the entire zoo is decorated with over a million holiday lights in a fresh design this year. Visit Holly Jolly Hillside where sparkling, lighted trees move to synchronized music, and watch some of your favorite zoo animals in their winter habitat as you and your family catch that wild Christmas spirit. If you need to get out of the cold wintry air, step inside one of the many indoor exhibits that are open.

Perhaps you’ll see live bears as well as the lighted ones at Grizzly Ridge.

Walk through this Winter Wonderland surrounded by the sounds of the holiday season and lighted displays of everything from Christmas trees and snowmen to angels and zoo animals. Make sure you are dressed warm for a ride on their animal carousel. Or perhaps you’d rather try ice skating.

Children are excited to visit Santa Land.

It’s a great place to visit Santa Claus each open evening until Dec. 23 when he has to return to the North Pole to get ready for that big night. Once Santa leaves, the Grinch, Snowman, Snow Princess, and Snow Queen will make special appearances. Actually, the Grinch will be causing problems at Wild Lights the entire month of December. Enjoy his wild antics as he twists and turns throughout the zoo.

Beautiful large Christmas ornaments are a great place for a photo opportunity.

Perhaps you would also like to visit Mrs. Claus’ Sweets. Enjoy tasty sweet treats and her specialty, S’mores! It’s another great place to have your picture taken. You’ll find photo ops throughout the zoo.

Everyone likes walking through a colorful tunnel of lights.

Adults can purchase a glass of beer or add an adult jolt to their hot chocolate or coffee to get a cozy feeling. There’s something for everyone at Wild Lights!

Pillars of light lead the way to Wild Asia.

Special performances include holiday carols performed by local groups and many holiday characters roaming the grounds. Christmas comes alive at Wild Lights.

Akron Zoo began in the early 1900s when Perkins Woods Park was given to the City of Akron for the enjoyment of children. Two brown bears were donated to begin the facility.

These wise owls know that Wild Lights is a great place to capture the Christmas spirit.

In 1950, a small museum of Natural History was developed and just three years later expanded to include the Akron Children’s Zoo, which at that time was based on Mother Goose themes.

Live turtles can also be found in the Curious Creatures section of the zoo.

The Akron Zoo received accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 1989. Since that time constant expansion has made it a popular place throughout the year while it still remains a small zoo, which can be easily explored, yet large enough to be interesting.

An elephant greets you at the entrance of Pride of Africa.

Currently, the zoo occupies 77 acres, which includes animal habitats, guest amenities, and support facilities. Travel around the world while visiting themed parts of the zoo with nearly 1000 animals. You might enjoy Pride of Africa or Wild Asia as well as Grizzly Ridge or Curious Creatures. Sounds like there is something everyone will enjoy.

Children and adults enjoy riding on the Conservation Carousel, which features 33 one-of-a-kind, hand-carved, wooden animals from around the world. Here you can enjoy the sounds of the carousel as you ride a giraffe, tiger, ladybug, or bear just to name a few of the delightful animals. Rides are only $2 per rider. Sometimes the Grinch is even riding.

Both young and old enjoy the fun of a train ride anytime of the year.

When visiting Pride of Africa, stop by the Train Depot to enjoy a ride on the A&K Wilber Express or the Considine Express. You not only get a fun train ride but also can enjoy a look at the African lions.

If you enjoy Virtual Reality, go diving with the sharks in Undersea Explorer located in the Curious Creatures section. It’s the safest way to swim with the sharks.

Akron Zoo Wild Lights will bring a smile to your face …and perhaps a desire to go skating.

Wild Lights at Akron Zoo is sponsored by Akron Children’s Hospital. This is a weekend affair opened from Nov. 24 – Dec. 29 every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5-9. Walk-up adult admission is $18 while admission for children ages 2-14 is $14.

Enjoy an evening with family or friends as you catch the Christmas Spirit at Akron Wild Lights.

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Christmas, Just for Fun, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Dogwood Pass Celebrates Christmas in Old West Style

December 9, 2023
Enjoy a touch of the Old West as you enter Dogwood Pass during the Christmas season.

Howdy, partner! Catch the feeling of an Old West Christmas at Dogwood Pass in the hills of Southern Ohio. Many roads head in that direction. All are scenic.

Enjoy the spirit of Christmas as you walk down the street in this Old West town.

Their Christmas season begins the first Friday after Thanksgiving. They are open in December from Thursday thru Sunday until Christmas. At this time, their Western town transforms into a winter wonderland filled with colorful lights, the Christmas spirit, and performances with holiday themes.

Candy Cane Lane leads to interesting Old West places of business.

Take a walk through Dogwood Pass and step inside all of their buildings, which are decorated in the spirit of that era. Here you’ll find a saloon, jail, church, general store, bank, freight office, gun shop, livery stable, and more. Along the way, you’ll find many original pieces from long ago. The only things modern are the twinkling Christmas lights.

The saloon was the first building constructed at Dogwood Pass.

Happy trails to you while visiting their Roy Rogers Memory’s Museum with classic memorabilia. Here you’ll find original movie posters, Roy and Dale’s Western outfits, and their guns. They continue to search for Roy Rogers’ memorabilia to add to their collection. Then, stop at the saloon for a drink…root beer is what they serve.

Watch a bank robbery take place during one of their Wild West Shows.

On weekends at 3 pm, their Wild West Shows are full of action, gun-slinging, lively cowboys, and horses. Watch lawmen and outlaws fight it out in the streets of Dogwood Pass. Often there is a bit of comedy thrown in and you might even see a cowboy riding his horse backward. Calamity Jane often makes an appearance as she argues with the cowboys to add a little humor.

The Grinch tries to steal their Christmas spirit.

Santa and the Grinch appear every open day after the Wild West Shows to create more Christmas cheer. The Grinch tries to steal the spirit of Christmas from Dogwood Pass but that’s impossible.

Santa enjoys arriving in his new buggy.

Santa arrives in his new buggy, which delights both children and adults. The singing interactive snowmen are a big hit and everyone likes to touch them and see their reaction. Children might enjoy a horseback ride through the town.

John T. Wayne, grandson of the famous Western actor John Wayne, will make an appearance on the weekend of December 15-17. He will be there to talk about and autograph his books. He has written his autobiography as well as eight books set in the west with the latest book being “Peace in the Valley.”

Sharlene and Mike “Frog” Montgomery live the Old West life on a daily basis.

This Western town in Beaver, Ohio began as an idea of Mike “Frog” Montgomery. Frog always had a passion for history and the life of a cowboy. He actually grew up on the farm where Dogwood Pass is located and married his wife, Sharlene, on this spot about thirty years ago.

The saloon, their first building, is still an important part of Dogwood Pass today.

One thing Frog always wanted was a saloon to hang out in after he went horseback riding or hunting. In 2009, he built that saloon in his own back yard…just for a hobby! He said his hobby went wild…Wild, Wild West, that is!

The dressmaker was an important person in the days of the Old West.

The family now has the help of about 70 volunteers who all dress in authentic Western costumes. Actually, Frog dresses that way all the time so people are used to seeing him in town with guns in his holsters. Volunteers make it special as they come to have fun. Everyone there is so friendly, you’ll want to come back again.

You know it’s an authentic Western atmosphere when you learn that three Western movies have been filmed there. “Western World” tells the story of a sheriff faced with more corruption than he thought possible. “Brimstone Saint” involves a preacher who became a gunslinger to stop witchcraft in his small worn. The most recent movie, “Showdown in Yesteryear,” thrusts a wannabe cowboy back in time 160 years through a mysterious door.

Snowmen, some of them interactive, give a special touch to a snowy day at Dogwood Pass.

For 2023, Dogwood Pass at 726 Adams Rd., Beaver, Ohio opens on Friday, November 24, and continues weekly from Thursday to Sunday until December 23. Admission on Thursday is $10, with children under 6 free. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, admission is $15 with children under 6 free. Hours vary on different days so check out their schedule on Facebook for updates.

Mike enjoys talking to visitors and telling them the story of Dogwood Pass.

Mike and Sharlene live just outside the Dogwood Pass fence so welcome people throughout the year even though most events take place on Friday and Saturday. If you don’t have time to head out West, visit the biggest Old West Town east of the Mississippi. Mike is a country boy and loves to talk to visitors. You’ll definitely feel welcome at Dogwood Pass!

Bring your family, bring your kin, and come on down to Christmas at Dogwood Pass where the West meets the North Pole for a rootin’, tootin’, good time!

Dogwood Pass is located in southern Ohio at 726 Adams Rd., Beaver, Ohio. It’s directly south of Columbus, Ohio in the direction of Portsmouth, and not far from the Ohio River, Roy Rogers’ boyhood stomping ground.

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Back Roads, Christmas, Family Fun, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Cambridge Fire Department Celebrate 150 Years

November 28, 2023
Today the fire station is located at 902 Gaston Avenue.

Fighting fires back in the early 1800s in Cambridge was very different than today. The most common method was the bucket brigade where leather buckets were passed by hand from a well or stream to the fire and back again. Those methods did not prove adequate before long.

The 150th Anniversary Commemorative Coin pictures that original pumper.

A fire on Water Street in June of 1873 was the catalyst for organizing a volunteer fire department in Cambridge. At that time on what is now Turner Avenue, workers at Simmons Brothers foundry were coating castings when hot pitch tar overflowed from a kettle onto the fire below. Soon the entire building was on fire and a wind spread the fire throughout the area burning twenty-two buildings before it was extinguished.

Local citizens banded together to fight the inferno but were ill equipped to fight such a fire. Barnesville and Zanesville sent hand pumpers, a steam engine pumper, hose carts, ladder wagons, and over 150 men via train to assist in putting out the fire, which took three days. As a result of this, buildings were better constructed in the future and Cambridge Fire Department was organized as a volunteer department.

The original Relief pumper from 1873 has recently come back home to Cambridge.

Cisterns were built around town so an ample water supply would be available for their new Relief Steam-engine Pumper that cost $6500 and had to be pulled by hand. Four and a half minutes after water from the cistern was in the boiler, water would be pulsed from the hose. That was much better than the bucket brigade!

The original hose cart from 1873 can now be seen at the Cambridge Fire Department.

In 1873, the fire engine was housed at the Old Town Hall on Steubenville Avenue. Community men served as volunteers for over 60 years. T.W. Scott and S.M. Burgess were some of those fire department founders. In 1874, the city gave the fire department $500 for uniforms, which consisted of a cap and a badge.

Fourth Street School Fire happened in February 1898 with temperatures of 32 below zero.

In 1898, the fire department moved to the old Simmons Brothers Factory on Turner Avenue. When you imagine how tiring it would have been to pull the engine by hand to a fire, it was important that early automobiles and the streetcar were used to haul volunteers and equipment back to the station.

Since the men all had full-time jobs, they often had to go to work covered with smoke and dirt from the fires. In 1902, Branthoover & Johnson installed plumbing at the firehouse as well as a bathtub,

In 1910, the city decided that these men should get a little pay but only when they were fighting a fire. Rates at that time gave the Chief $3 a fire, and the volunteers received $2 a fire if water was needed or $1 a fire if no water was needed.

Progress was being made as in 1915, fire hydrants were installed around the city. A new motorized, chain driven fire truck was then purchased. That original Relief Steam-engine Pumper and Hose Cart have now been returned from a Cleveland Museum and are kept at the Cambridge Fire Department.

In 1932, they moved into the Municipal Building where they stayed for over 40 years. By this time they had a new Seagrave pumper that could spray 600 gallons a minute.

Harry Siegfried is pictured on a 1928 Seagrave fire engine just outside the firehouse.

Harry Siegfried, a nozzleman, was one of those long-time volunteers along with several family members. Harry’s daughter, Bess, remembers going with her dad to the station when she was a child. “I polished those nozzles until you could see your face in them.”

Pictured are Chief Callihan and driver Walter Stage with a 1928 ladder truck.

Cambridge First Department became a fully paid fire department in 1946. Now someone was at the station 24 hours a day for a quicker response time. The first Fire Chief was H.C. Callihan, who served as a volunteer and chief for 62 ½ years.

Engines were parked in front of the Municipal Building in 1938.

Early in 1959, many will recall the disastrous fire at McMahon Gymnasium that destroyed the gym, industrial arts room, and band room at an estimated loss of $250,000. The cause was blamed on an overheated furnace. Nearby Central High School and St. Benedict Parochial School were saved due to the Cambridge Fire Department with assistance of fire departments from Byesville, New Concord, State Hospital, and Old Washington.

All available firemen were summoned in 1968 to a major fire at Variety Glass Company on the corner of Foster Avenue and North 2nd Street. Of high concern was the possible damage of glass molds – some from the Cambridge Glass Company. An estimated $300,000 in damage was partially covered by insurance, which was used to rebuild the facility.

Cambridge Scottish Rite Auditorium in flames in 1968.

Later in 1968, firemen were called to the Scottish Rite Auditorium where another disastrous fire was discovered on the third floor. Over a hundred firemen from seven area fire companies and many local citizens helped fight the blaze which caused destruction or damage to Scottish Rite Auditorium, Suitt Furniture Company, and the theater workshop.

In 1975, Cambridge Fire Department moved to its present home at 902 Gaston Avenue. Shortly after that move in July 1979 one of the most tragic area fires in recent times happened at Holiday Inn on Southgate Parkway where several died of smoke inhalation.

Members of the Cambridge Fire Department are pictured in this recent photo.

In more recent years, there have been several downtown fires where buildings have been destroyed. The Cambridge Fire Department always arrives quickly and keeps the fires from spreading to nearby buildings.

Chief Deeks heads the Cambridge Fire Department today.

Today the Cambridge First Department consists of 25 full-time personnel operating from one central station with Jeff Deeks serving as Chief. These dedicated men train continuously. They have two fire engines, a ladder truck, heavy rescue vehicle, water rescue, and two utility vehicles.

This fire engine is the latest at the Cambridge Fire Department. What a change 150 years has made!

They protect the citizens and property of the City of Cambridge and Cambridge Township. These firemen risk their lives for not only family and friends but complete strangers as well. Thanks for 150 years of service to our community!

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Cambridge, History, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Christmas in Dickens Victorian Village

November 14, 2023
Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit join in welcoming guests to Dickens Victorian Village.

Enjoy the spirit of a Victorian Christmas in Cambridge during the months of November and December. The main street is filled with Victorian scenes inspired by the book “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens.

Each year local dignitaries along with Queen Victoria participate in the ribbon cutting at the Opening Ceremony.

The official Opening Ceremony in 2023 was in downtown Cambridge on Saturday, November 4 with many exciting and interesting events. These included caroling by Cambridge Singers, the Akron Bagpipe Band, several storytellers, and many food carts just to give you a touch of what was happening. Of course, there was a ceremony at the Courthouse with local dignitaries followed by the 2023 Holiday Light Show. Then everyone moved to the Guernsey County Library for more entertainment and light refreshments. It’s an evening all those attending enjoyed. Similar events happen each year.

In its 18th season, the charm of jolly olde England can be felt right here in Cambridge. As you walk down Wheeling Avenue view 96 Victorian scenes with 169 characters that depict life at the time of Charles Dickens. Every scene has a brass plaque telling its connection to olde England and also lists the sponsor of that scene.

Father Christmas plays a big role in the festivities.

Father Christmas stands at the Courthouse Square along with Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit. Scrooge and Marley can be found near Theo’s Restaurant. Look for shopping and caroling scenes along with Queen Victoria, who reigned during the time of Charles Dickens.

Scrooge and Marley are shown in this Victorian scene based on “A Christmas Carol.”

Many of the scenes depict people in Victorian trades. The candlemaker, apple seller, sled maker, and coal miner are examples of ways that people made a living during those times. It’s a long walk from 6th Street to 11th Street but that is the best way to enjoy all the scenes that appear under each lamppost. Some scenes are in store windows so watch for them as you walk along.

Imagination Station gives opportunity to dress as a Victorian lady or gentleman.

While downtown, you’ll want to stop at the Dickens Welcome Center to learn more about the history of Dickens Victorian Village. There you can see how the heads are made for the characters as well as their inside skeleton. At the back of the center, dress Victorian yourself at Imagination Station where there is a wide variety of capes, hats, scarves, coats, and more to turn men, women, and children into Victorian figures. You might want to take a picture and use it on your Christmas card next year.

Historic trolley rides are narrated by local historian, Rick Booth.

Weekends are filled with special events. The Historic Trolley Tour has been a highlight for several years and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Rick Booth, local historian, narrates a memorable ride as the trolley goes from downtown all the way to the City Park. Locals will discover things they may never have known about their town. Find out why there were three bridges across Wheeling Avenue in the early 1800s and why they disappeared. Hear the importance of Col. Taylor in downtown Cambridge and the present day Col. Taylor Inn. You’ll be amazed at all the information Rick has discovered about Cambridge. The Trolley Tours in 2023 will happen on Saturdays Nov. 18, Dec. 2, and Dec. 9 from 10am-5pm.

Couples and friends enjoy having a traditional English tea at the Masonic Hall in this picture.

Three Victorian teas are held during the season. The Queen’s Tea will be held on Nov. 18 at the Cambridge Country Club with Queen Victoria telling the story of her life between courses of the meal. Two Victorian teas will take place at the Masonic Lodge Temple on Dec. 2 and Dec. 16. Join in the fun and wear your favorite hat or Victorian attire while sipping English tea and listening to some local entertainment. Reservations are required for the teas.

Each year, a group of local actors participate in the Cemetery Tours making history come alive.

The “Coming Alive Cemetery Tour” took place in the Old City Cemetery behind the Senior Center in 2023. The six living characters portrayed all had veteran related stories this year from the War of 1812 to WWI with the Civil War in between. Cost for the popular tour, which happens each year with a different theme, is $5 per person and can be paid at the gate.

The local library also honors Charles Dickens with a Marathon Reading.

The tradition of the Dickens Marathon Reading will continue at the Main Branch of the Guernsey County Library with the library sponsoring this event. Listen as local fans of Dickens read “A Christmas Carol” and perhaps some other Christmas works of Charles Dickens. Each person will read a 15 minute segment while visitors are encouraged to listen to parts of this well-known tale. It’s a great chance to get out of the cold and relax in the warmth of the library. What better place to read a classic novel?

Join a Christmas Candlelight Walk to hear stories of the VIctorian scenes downtown.

A Christmas Candlelight Walk will fill you with the holiday spirit as you walk downtown through the scenes. A tour guide will tell you stories about the scenes, and lead you in some Christmas carols. The tour begins at The Welcome Center at 6:00 on December 16. Here you can pick up a candle for the tour if you didn’t bring a candle or lantern from home. Admission is free for this event.

Many enjoy the thrill of an old-fashioned carriage ride through the downtown area. (Photo by Calvin Chester)

Everyone enjoys the thrill of riding in a carriage pulled by a beautiful horse through the streets of town. The ride begins on W. 8th Street beside the courthouse and tickets can be purchased there. On the weekends, check the Dickens Victorian Village Facebook page to see if the Horse and Carriage rides are going to happen. It all depends on the weather.

A special feature of the evening is the Holiday Light Show which gets bigger and better each year.

Every evening people gather at the Guernsey County Courthouse to watch the Holiday Lights created by AVC Communications. Watch and listen as the courthouse comes alive with the sights and sounds of Christmas. Over 66,000 lights pulsate in time to familiar Christmas songs. You’ll probably be singing along.

Music and scenes, from children’s favorites to classics and modern, entertain with different displays for an entire hour. The shows begin at 5:30 each evening and continue until 9:00, longer on holidays. There are benches on the lawn where you can comfortably sit to watch the lights or perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to find a parking spot close by to watch from your car. This Holiday Light show has become a holiday tradition with many families.

Scenes such as these can be found for five blocks in downtown Cambridge. Snow adds to the holiday spirit.

For more information, visit http://www.DickensVictorianVillage.com or check out their Facebook page. There’s so much to see and do that it is difficult to list everything. Come celebrate the 18th season of Dickens Victorian Village and get in the holiday spirit!

In the words of Charles Dickens, “Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts.” That’s still good advice today.

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Cambridge, Christmas, Family Fun, Festivals, Ohio, Uncategorized

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