My Hometown Ohio

Granville, Ohio

2010-06-24T19:22:00.004-04:00

So, it has been quite some time since I have posted. Now, back in Ohio for the summer, I've gone a few new places. I'm going to share one here:Granville Ohio. A couple miles east of Columbus, this little town might be known for Denison University. Denison is perched on a tall hill on the north side of town. Coming into town from the north, you can see the chapel belfry.I visited a friend here, and she took me downtown that evening. It was a Saturday too, around 9. It's a cute little town. Just look at the main street, and some of the houses! (The ice cream shop was packed, and delicious! (also the coffee and soup shop).

Hocking Hills Winter Hike

2010-01-25T17:50:00.008-05:00

Every year in January you can take a 6 mile winter hike at Hocking hills. The hike starts at the trail head for Old Man's Cave. From Old Man's cave you travel to Cedar Falls and end at Ash Cave. The park provides a shuttle back (Only on the Saturday of the Scheduled Winter Hike).

Every year I've gone it's been extremely cold - somewhere in the single digits, but always worth it. Pictured here is the falls at Old Man's Cave. Cedar Falls comes next and is well worth the walk.

About half way you can stop and enjoy some good ole beans and cornbread and hot chocolate.

The mountain of ice that forms at the bottom of Ash Cave is just amazing.

If your wondering just how cold the trek can be, just ask this guy!

While I wouldn't do it every year It is definitely worth a trip if you've never been.

Ohio Then and Now

2010-01-23T22:42:00.007-05:00

While surfing the net I found this wonderful book "Ohio Then and Now" by Photographer Randall Scieber and Auther Robin Smith. Click the following link for a nostalgic look of scenes from Ohio's past compared to their present view. Ohio Then and Now

Graceland Cemetery (Winter)

2010-01-17T22:48:00.008-05:00

While not the Famous Graceland it is still a pretty nice cemetery. The cemetery is located adjacent to the Big Four Railroad Bridge off of County Road 25A just outside of Sidney. I took these during a moment of insanity as I braved the cold to take some winter pictures.

A brief search on the Internet did not turn up much history. Hopefully I will have more on that in a future post.

Covered Bridge Tawawa Park (Winter)

2010-01-14T21:42:00.006-05:00

The William Ross Covered Bridge in Tawawa Park in Sidney Ohio is one of my favorite subjects to photograph when I am in the park. The bridge was dedicated in 1971 and closely resembles several covered bridges constructed in Central Ohio by bridge designer, Rueben L. Partridge (1823-1900).

To get this picture I had to venture out in the cold, single digits no less. Surprisingly I was not the only lunatic out and about on such a cold morning. I ran into three people out walking their dogs. BURRRRRRR

Big Four Bridge in Winter (Sidney)

2010-01-11T19:53:00.012-05:00

The Big Four concrete arch bridge located in Sidney Ohio, is one of the largest landmarks in the area. Simply known as the Big Four Bridge - so named after the four large railroads that ran the line (Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Indianapolis Railway's). Constructed in the 1920's it is still in use to this day. The railway is currently owned and operated by CSX Transportation.

While I played sandlot football at the base of the bridge, I never ventured upon it as a youth. My cousin and others have over the years, some of them leaving their mark with graffiti in the arches beneath the tracks.

This picture was taken just outside another landmark of sorts. I was standing at the top of the hill on Childrens Home Road at the foot of the steps of the old orphanage. The orphanage was still in operation when I was a very young lad. Now it stands deserted and abandoned.

I remember the area well because my dad would bring me here every year to watch the soapbox derby. The derby used the road that went up the hill next to the orphanage. Staring down the hill I couldn't help but imagine the cheering crowds lining the road and those Oh-So-Marvelous derby cars racing down the hill.

(still) First Alliance, Toledo

2010-01-09T13:56:00.008-05:00

This is a historic inner-city church in Toledo, and at first glance, it appears to be a lovely old tabernacle with a Sunday school wing built on ...

Ahhhh, maybe not so much ...
Looks like there's maybe a bit too much skylight there ...

Way too much.

This church has housed the same congregation and denomination since its inception in 1887, before and since the building of this house of worship in 1923. On June 25th, 2009, something caused it to get a bit too warm in the sanctuary even by summer standards:

Man, that's ugly. Scary. Thank God there was no one in the place at the time.

I think that staircase might actually still be stable. It looks like there's some new framing at the edge of what used to be the balcony. And while most of the remaining old windows have crumbled, this one still glows with the sunlight ...

The congregation is using their fellowship hall, located across the street, for their services. They're determined to stay where they're at and make it good. These people are unstoppable. Hallelujah.

Tawawa Park Fall II

2009-10-13T22:39:00.003-04:00

I stopped at the park on my way home from work and took this and a few others. To see my favorite shot of the day -- checkout Reflections of Fall from my Think Focus Click Blog.

Tawawa Park Entrance (Fall Archive)

2009-10-07T21:47:00.003-04:00

I just love Fall colors. I took this sometime back. It is the entrance road to Tawawa Park in Sidney. I am hoping to get out and take some more pictures soon.

Fall Beans

2009-09-28T19:27:00.001-04:00

I just love the color that Fall brings at harvest time. These beans are just starting to turn. Others have already lost most of their leaves. And in some places you can still see a sea of green.

Lighthouse State Park, Marblehead

2009-09-27T22:28:00.009-04:00

Built in 1822, Marblehead Lighthouse is the oldest continually-operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes.
A windy and somewhat cool evening still found people relaxing along the rocky shoreline ...

... and even jumping in for a swim.
Lake Erie, choppy and angry ...

But still worth a sail ...

That's Sandusky across the bay ...

... where Cedar Point (once again the #1 amusement park in the world) is visible.

http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/tabid/763/Default.aspx

Adena Mansion & Gardens in Chillicothe

2009-09-25T21:58:00.004-04:00

As mentioned in the previous post, Our Ohio is doing a television feature on Chillicothe. The Adena Mansion and Gardens will be part of that feature. These pictures were sent to me by Shannon Powell of Our Ohio.

Visit Our Ohio for show details.

Thanks Shannon - looks like a great place to visit.

Our Ohio to feature Chillicothe on public television

2009-09-24T20:06:00.005-04:00

The following was given to me by Shannon Powell of Our Ohio.

Our Ohio television will be featuring Chillicothe in a special “Hometown Ohio” segment. The show will air this weekend! The television show airs on all Ohio Public Television Stations. To find out where to watch in your area, click here.

At Our Ohio we are proud to showcase some of Ohio’s best people, places and events from around the state. All of our efforts are dedicated to providing expert information on topics such as Ohio gardening, travel, cooking, history, animals, community involvement, where to buy Ohio farm products locally and more.

Our Ohio is Ohio Farm Bureau's way of communicating to consumers about Ohio agriculture. Our Ohio is a TV series, magazine, and Web site. Sponsored by Ohio Farm Bureau and Nationwide.

Temple of Tolerance

2009-09-23T20:28:00.015-04:00

Believe it or not this large stone man made temple called the Temple of Tolerance lies hidden in the backyard or should I say several backyards of this house -- 203 Wood Street in Wapakonetta.

I first found the Temple on Roadside America when I was researching interesting places in Ohio. What I didn't realize was that I passed it every time I visited historical downtown Wapak.

On my last visit I finally took a good look at this house as I passed it by and said to myself "OH My God that's the Temple of Tolerance I read about on the Net." Of course I had to stop and take a few pictures.

The main structure is massive and impressive. I have no idea how he managed to create it. The Temple of Tolerance complex artist/creator is Jim Bowsher. The temple was built in the late 1990's to present.

There are numerous other smaller monuments and temples that make up the complex and plenty of bricker brack. This Sun was my favorite capture of the day.

I'll use this definition of Tolerance posted on the artists backdoor to go with the rest of these pictures.

TOLERANCE - The person who has a tremendous reserve of patience and tolerance has a certain degree of tranquility and calmness in his or her life.

Such a person is not only happy and more emotionally grounded, but also seems to be physically healthier and to experience less illness.

The person possess a strong will, has a good appetite and can sleep with a clear conscience.

The Dalai Lama

I just scratched the surface when it comes to fully exploring and finding all the hidden treasures of this wonderful place. I am looking forward to coming back with my tripod in tow to take some longer exposures.

Check out this You Tube Video to meet the artist and to get some insight as to what this is all about.

Applefest 2009 Part IV (Apple Frogs and More)

2009-09-21T00:28:00.001-04:00

I thought this Apple and Peanut Butter Frog craft and snack was a pretty nifty idea. My grandsons sure liked them.

Here they are working on one of the many free crafts they had for the kids.

There is always plenty to see and do at the Applefest.

There was even a Kiddie Tractor Pull.

My favorite Marshmallow Gun Vendor (son Tyler and his friend Ryan) were back at it.

I lost track on how many pictures I took for this next one, trying to capture a marshmallow coming out of the gun. As you can see I was unsuccessful.

The woodcarvers and their carvings are always interesting. I found this beaver quite funny.

My favorite picture of the day were these Honey Bears.

And yes there are still more Applefest pictures to come.

Applefest 2009 Part III (Car Show)

2009-09-20T00:09:00.000-04:00

The annual car show was just getting underway while I was there.

Of course Betty Boop was in attendance. It's hard to pass on taking her picture whenever I find her. I promise the next time to do a full feature and to include the truck and trailer

I just love shooting old hood ornaments.

This car had a very interesting story.

Applefest 2009 Part II (People)

2009-09-19T00:05:00.000-04:00

While attending this years Applefest, I took a few people pictures some candid and some not so candid. Pictured above are Mitchell, my nephew's son and my son Tony and his girlfriend Ashley.

Here's another one of Tony helping out at the Dunk-Tank.

I just love the blue eyes of Trinity, My nephews daughter, peaking out from behind the mask she made.

I missed the contest but caught this young man still hula-hooping afterwards.

I thought this picture of the vendor standing in her sea of mums made for colorful shot.

This one I will simply title King of the Skateboard.

I'm not sure what this guys story is, but I guess he didn't what his picture taken in all his fancy dress.

My favorite picture of the day was this one I captured of a UC Bearcat Fan.

The crops are little tighter than I like on some of these but I was walking around with my Canon 100mm lens.

Local Stampede

2009-09-18T12:00:00.001-04:00

While on my way home I passed this herd of cattle cooling themselves in this stream. I couldn't help but stop and take a picture.

One of the cows got spooked by me and my camera and headed for higher ground. The rest followed suit as if they had all been stuck with a cattle prod.

Move Along Little Doggie!

Applefest 2009 Part 1

2009-09-17T18:37:00.008-04:00

Here are some pictures from Sidney's 2009 Applefest. This is Part One of probably a Three Part post.

Of course you can't have an Applefest without apples. There were these and plenty of apple pies and dumplings. And of course apple butter and apple cider.

There was a corn-hole tournament in progress while I was there.

I don't know why but I take a picture like this every year. Must be a Fall thing.

This guy looks a little corn-fused.

More pictures to come in my next post.

Indian Lake

2009-09-09T18:25:00.010-04:00

These are just a couple of pictures I took while riding around Indian Lake, with my son Tyler. We were just killing sometime and getting his hours in for his drivers license. I brought my camera of course but this wasn't a photo trip.

I think it is going to be an early Fall, some of the trees were already turning.

I took these at one of inlets where we could park and explore.

Had a little fun in PhotoShop with this next one.

How cool would it be to be the Fireman that gets to ride this beauty!

Nothing to really go WOW about, but my son got some driving time in and I got a few pics. Oh and we did have the most awesome ice cream in Russell's Point.

Riverside Blues (St.Marys)

2009-09-07T21:18:00.007-04:00

For the past couple of Labor Day Weekends, on Saturday and Sunday, St.Marys has been hosting the RIVERSIDE BLUES. It is a wonderful gathering of blues bands from all over the US. Opening the Blues Fest are local bands which are nothing to sneeze at.

We have some great local bands in our area. Seven bands are featured each day, and you can hear some great blues musicians, from Chicago blues. Memphis toe-tapping, and New Orleans style music. It is well worth the price of the ticket and then some.

Located at KC Geiger Park on a hill side where you can see and hear from all directions, Blues Fest features not only great music but some wonderful food vendors. You can make it a day, starting at 1:00 in the afternoon and going until 11:00 at night when the last band puts away the guitars.

If you still haven’t had enough at that point, some of the bands play into the wee hours of the morning at a couple local hangouts. It’s a great time and makes a wonderful weekend.

Big Thank You goes out to Lee Miller who gave me this post. Nice pictures Lee, I really like that first one.

This Hollow Earth Cycling Tours

2009-09-04T20:42:00.007-04:00

This Hollow Earth Cycling Tours is a blog by Aldo of Middletown that features his images from various bicycle rides around the Greater Cincinnati area. He recently sent me a link to his site with some pictures he took while cycling through Fort Loramie of St. Michale's Church.

This is just a fantastic blog and worth taking a look. Makes me want to get on my bike and go for a spin.

Bike picture from Aldos This Hollow Earth Cycling Tours Blog.

Fort Recovery Ohio

2009-09-03T20:54:00.008-04:00

Those familiar with my
Cross Tipped Church Blog my recognize these. I took these sometime last year. Along with being the home of the Indians (School sport team) it is part of the Land of the Cross Tipped Churches Scenic Ohio Byway.

They even have their own web page if you want to know more about its history. Here is an excerpt--

Fort Recovery is a pretty, little historic village of some 1,300 population, located in West Central Ohio. The village is built on the site of General St. Clair's defeat in 1791 and General "Mad" Anthony Wayne's battle (recovery) in 1794. The fort that was built under Wayne's command was called Fort Recovery and that remains the name of the village.

Along with the above monument there is a partial reconstruction of the Fort. There is also a museum. The Museum starting in September is only open on weekends from noon to five.

Both the museum and the Visitor Center pictured here were closed when I was there.

If your a history buff you certainly want to put this on your place to visit list.

Sax Appeal

2009-08-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

I found this trio while taking in the Shelby County Art's Counsel Art Fair behind the Presbyterian Church.

The were playing up a storm and the crowd really enjoyed the music. There business card says "Bourbon Street Strutters Razz-Ma-Tazz and Jazz".

If you think your upcoming event could use a little jazzing up give them a call -- Sax Appeal Entertainment (937) 581-9998

Franklin Conservatory (Columbus)

2009-08-28T20:51:00.013-04:00

I am still planning on going to the Franklin Conservatory this year, but it looks like it will be a while so I thought I'd post these from my last trip. This basically was my first flower photo shoot.

I apologize for the lack of narrative. It has been a busy week and will continue to be a busy weekend.

Maumee Bay Resort State Park Boardwalk

2009-08-26T16:30:00.000-04:00

I took these while accompanying my wife on a work retreat in Maumee Bay. I found this boardwalk on the resort grounds. Alex's post prompted me to go looking for these.

I spotted this little guy just I was ending my walk.

I've always enjoyed walks in woods and practically lived in them when I was a kid. I now take even greater delight capturing images of my adventures.

US Air Force Museum (Dayton)

2009-08-25T22:06:00.014-04:00

The United States Air Force Museum near Dayton, Ohio is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. The Museum uses both chronological and subjective layouts to tell the exciting story of aviation development from the days of the Wright brothers at Kitty Hawk to the Space Age.

Exhibits include over 200 aircraft and missiles, plus family oriented and historically interesting aeronautical displays.

Over one and a half million visitors from around the world come to Ohio each year to tour this unique free attraction. (Information taken from brochure)

These are from a trip I took last fall. The above pictures were taken outside and features some of the many memorials you will find there.

On this last one I have no idea on how it relates to aviation, I just thought it made for a cool picture.

I could post a hundred pictures and still not cover everything you can see and experience on your visit here. If you have pictures of the Air Force Museum you would like to share send them to me and I will post them as I get them.

Related Links:
National Museum of the US Air Force
Air Force Museum Foundation

Spring Grove Cemetery (Cincinnati)

2009-08-20T21:56:00.015-04:00

These are from my archive and were taken last spring. I am a member of the Edison Photo Society and last spring the club when on a photo shoot weekend in Cincinnati.

Spring Grove is the second largest cemetery in the United States and has been serving the Cincinnati community since 1845

I just love to explore cemetery's and this one is the largest I have ever been in. You can literally spend hours waking and not see it all.

I definitely did some walking. I was amazed at the number, variety and size of the monuments.

It's not your typical cemetery scenery.

This is just one of many awesome mausoleums you will find on the grounds.

This pink azalea was my only flower picture from the photo shoot.

This was a great shoot and I am looking forward to going back someday.

Auglaize County Countryside

2009-08-18T22:00:00.000-04:00

The following post was given to me by Lee Miller. (Looks like Lee has been very busy taking pictures lately). Thanks for sharing Lee. These are fantastic.

Many of us are town dwellers, and as we drive the highways and interstates we tend to ignore the countryside around us. Ohio has over 10 million acres in farmland and over a million acres in woodland. Agriculture is big business in Ohio, and certainly plays a large part in Auglaize County as well as the surrounding counties.

Unless we have reason, we seldom drive the back roadways of Ohio. But, those back roadways hide a certain beauty that is found in Ohio. Ohio may not have mountains, but Ohio has a subtle beauty that we all can watch for and enjoy, in the straight rows in the corn fields, the gold of the wheat, the contrasting golds and greens in the fields, the peaceful pasture land holding cows, or horses, and sometimes goats and sheep.

Watch for Ohio sunrises and beautiful sunsets over the flat fields and above our woods. It’s a pretty nice place to live.

Moulton Days

2009-08-17T22:27:00.010-04:00

The following post was given to me by Lee Miller.

Trinity Lutheran Church, Moulton, OH is a friendly place to worship.

This year, rather than the traditional bible school, it was decided to have a two-day experience of worship, learning, fun and food.

There was something for everyone, from the very oldest to the youngest member. A good time was had by all, as was attested to by a little fellow that, whenever he saw me with my camera, he posed. The last time I saw him, he didn’t, and I asked him why not. “Because I am tired out”, was the answer. The inflatable obstruction course, which was a hit for all, had gotten the best of him.

I think we all came away with a greater sense of community and are looking forward to next year.

Celina Lake Festival

2009-08-16T23:53:00.008-04:00

This post was submitted by Lee Miller.

Celina, Ohio hosts the Celina Lake Festival the later part of July. Held on the banks of Grand Lake St.Marys, it is attended by people from Celina and the surrounding area, as well as people from out of state.

Food, rides and visiting with old friends along the lake is a pleasant attraction for a weekend. Throw in an auto show, home town parade and the amphibian cars and a wonderful weekend can be held by all.

Maumee Bay State Park

2009-08-13T17:14:00.000-04:00

Looking Northeast

Old Man's Cave (Hocking Hills)

2009-08-10T01:10:00.000-04:00

I got to spend about an hour and a half touring the Old Man's Cave area in Hocking Hills State Park this weekend. The park is noted for its waterfalls and rock formations. If you have never been there, it's worth making a trip.

Old Man's Cave is not really a cave at all but a deep long recess in the cliffs. Pictured here is the entrance.

Unfortunately, there was not much of a water flow so the waterfalls were less than spectacular. Pictured here is the Upper Falls.

The Devils Bathtub was even mild and sedated.

I am already looking forward to coming back in the fall.

Relay for Life (Shelby County)

2009-08-08T13:00:00.001-04:00

I actually took several pictures of this from the other side before I realized that the letters were backwards.

There is always something interesting at the Relay--From Balloons

to Fancy Spirit Sticks that light up

And friends that like to dress up!

Then of course there's all those people walking.

The climax for the evening is the Luminary Ceremony. This year they started the Ceremony with a song and the lighting of luminaries spelling out the word HOPE.

The luminaries were then rearranged to spell CURE.

This is a very solemn occasion and done with reverence as the individual luminaries get lit. This family added roses in remembrance of their loved ones.

It was a very moving event and a great way to spend a Saturday evening.

Elyria

2009-08-07T22:29:00.003-04:00

I wish I remembered anything from Elyria the short few minutes I was there. These are from the park downtown, which is quite nice...Though I would not recommend wandering too far away from there.

The Park has a number of war memorials. The guy pictured there is part of one. Don't remember any of that however. (doink! should have wrote it down!)

Bicentennial Barn

2009-08-05T17:01:00.003-04:00

Huron County

You can see pictures of all the barns HERE.

Squadron Island Nature Trail, Cullen Park, Point Place, Toledo

2009-08-03T22:03:00.006-04:00

I grew up in this area ... but I hadn't been back to Cullen Park since about 1969. I hadn't even been back to Point Place for well over 15 years. My family no longer lives out there, I don't know anyone out there now - but a year or so ago, I began making occasional visits to the church I grew up in. Made a return visit one day this past March, in the middle of a sunny weekday, for a photo tour. I remembered this dike as being much higher, with almost no vegetation until one got out to the island, about a mile out into the lake. I was delighted to see that it had worn or sunk, whatever, much closer to the water and was now overgrown with trees ... a nature path over the lake!
The south side of the dike: The wind was whipping up the waves, and a chill spray was in the air. The park's boat launch is in the background.

The lake shipping season was already under way by then.

The much calmer lagoon on the north side of the dike. The edge of Point Place is visible.

No matter where I might end up living, I will always love Lake Erie ... I've been away for far too long ...

A Visit To Van Wert

2009-08-03T18:57:00.014-04:00

I took these on a recent visit to Van Wert. I had found pictures of the Brumback Library while surfing the Internet and had been wanting to make a trip to take some pictures myself.

According to the Ohio Historical Marker it was the first County Library in the United States.

The arched doorway is very impressive.

Unfortunately, the library was closed so I did not get to see what it looked like on the inside.

However, I did find it to be very picturesque.

While taking pictures of the library, news happened before my very eyes. A water main broke on a side street flooding the main road and pretty much trashing the road above it.

I am always on the lookout for Great NON-Franchised places to eat. In Van Wert that would be BalyEat's Coffee Shop. They have the best rhubarb pie that I have ever eaten.

As I was leaving town, I spotted another Ohio Historical Marker in the fairgrounds. I pulled in to check it out.

This Hoghe Road Bridge had been originally built on another location to handle the heavy railroad traffic. It was moved here for preservation.

It was just a short visit, but a good one for sure.

Our Ohio Landscape

2009-07-31T20:28:00.008-04:00

No matter what size town you live in, you don't have to drive very far before you find yourself looking at fields of corn, beans or wheat.

I just love a good old fashion drive in the country. I love taking pictures of old barns and silos.

The following pictures were given to me by Lee Miller and were inspirational in my going on my own Sunday Drive in the Country.

This picture of a wheat field much like Alex's corn field picture show the simple beauty of the crops we raise to feed a nation.

Besides Silos, Water-Towers and church steeples reaching into the sky its hard not to notice these fellows as they march across the fields.

Thanks Lee for the pictures and the inspiration to go out and take a few of my own.

Corn

2009-07-30T11:58:00.003-04:00

The Historical Loveland Castle and Museum

2009-07-29T21:30:00.009-04:00

These lovely pictures were sent to my Jodie Peyton.

Chateau Laroche was built as an expression and reminder of the simple strength and rugged grandeur of the mighty men who lived when Knighthood was in flower.

It was their knightly zeal for honor, valor and manly purity that lifted mankind out of the moral midnight of the dark ages and started it towards the gray dawn of human hope.

Present human decadence proves a need for similar action.
Already the ancient organization of Knights have been re-activated to save society. Any man of high ideas who wishes to help save civilization is invited to become a member of the Knights of the Golden Trail, whose only vows are the Ten Commandments.

Chateau Laroche is the World headquarters of this organization, started in 1927.

It is a great place complete with sword fights, beautiful gardens, and knights. It was a wonderful place to visit!

Click the following link to visit their website.
The Historical Loveland Castle & Museum

Sunset On the Farm (Anywhere Ohio)

2009-07-28T20:16:00.007-04:00

I live in the country so when I see a great sunset it looks something like this.

Not exactly palm trees and ocean but Hey its what I've got to work with. And for some odd reason I like taking pictures of silos. Go Figure.

Put-In-Bay (and Christmas in July)

2009-07-25T20:31:00.003-04:00

Wapakoneta At Night (Winter)

2009-07-25T18:42:00.009-04:00

I haven't had a chance to take any pictures for the My Hometown Ohio blog so I thought I grab a few from my archive. These are from last winter.

MidFirst Ohio Challenge, Middletown

2009-07-22T16:37:00.015-04:00

The following pictures and story was submitted to me by Jodi Peyton.

This is 7th annual MidFirst Ohio Challenge, a full festival featuring hot air balloon competition events in the skies of Middletown, Ohio. Complete with skydivers and balloon glows after dark.

It is great to wake up to a sky full of hot air balloons floating right over the house! Usually in years past they fly over our house maybe once out of the weekend but this year they flew over every day!

The two special shape balloons in this year’s event—Lily and Joey, the Little Bees are flown by a husband and wife team. The Little Bees are the world’s only tandem flying special shape hot air balloons. They have appeared all over the world since their “birth” in 2003 at the Victoria Balloon factory in Brazil. They each hold 98,000 cubic feet of hot air, stand 110 feet tall and reach 110 feet from finger tip to finger tip.

They blow them up side by side, looks as if they are holding hands all the way up. At on point on Saturday evening the wind blew the girl and it looked like she was kissing him on the cheek. The kids thought they were great! (Sadly I did not get to take any of the fronts of them.)

Nice work Jodie. I've been wanting to go to one of these events for quite sometime. Your pictures now make want to go even more.

Troy Walk--About

2009-07-19T10:49:00.012-04:00

These aren't particularly artistic pictures; just some I took while walking around Troy the other day. There mostly of some of the well known landmarks.

I love to tour cemeteries. I am not sure what the fascination is but I almost always pull in for a look when I am out driving. I found this awesome mausoleum in the local cemetery.

I've gone ice-skating on more than one occasion at the Troy Hobart Arena.

I found the Old Power Plant between the river and courthouse a nice picture find.

Most of the county court houses that I've seen have a very similar look to them.

I bet this set of Ten Commandments on the Court House lawn has drew its share of attention.

I'll close with a few random shots from downtown.

Tri-County Field of Honor

2009-07-16T18:32:00.006-04:00

This patriotic display can be found at the Armstrong Air and Space Museum in Wapakoneta.

What is the Filed of Honor? (From brochure)

The Tri-County Filed of Honor will be held to honor our heroes. 3'x5' American Flags will be strategically displayed for 8 days and will receive proper flag etiquette at all times.

WHY?

The Field of Honor is an opportunity to honor our heroes who have served, or are currently serving, in our military, as well as Firefighters, EMS, Law enforcement and First Responders. To Celebrate and honor those who defended our freedoms and reflect on the sacrifices of those brave and men and women.

There are 501 flags on display. Individuals or businesses purchased the flags for $30 to honor a hero. The flags are mapped and tagged so the sponsor can find their flag.

The display is from July 13th through the 20th.

Wild Turkey Spotted

2009-07-15T22:32:00.005-04:00

The following pictures and story were sent to me by Lee Miller.

I was driving on 703 between Celina and St.Marys in the pouring rain. The car ahead of me slowed and came to a stop. I noticed there were two birds crossing the road. I didn’t pay too much attention because there are always geese crossing the road around the lake area, and hopefully, everyone stops to let them across.

Then, I noticed the color – black! I pulled off the road to try to photograph this pair of wild turkeys. The male was courting the female with a display of tail feathers and very vocal gobbling. She would respond, and they would dance around each other.

Looks like Lee is becoming quite the wildlife photographer. Thanks for the Post Lee.

Hands and Paws for Hope

2009-07-14T23:19:00.018-04:00

Hahn~Hufford Center of Hope Dog-Walk-A-Thon was this Saturday in Hollow Park in Piqua. I was the official pet portrait and event photographer. This was a great picture outing and it was a shame that it got cut short due to the rain. The event was the Center's first Dog-Walk-A-Thon fund raiser. There were pet vendors, pet owners and dogs of all sizes and breeds in attendance.

Pictured here is Team Heather. The family created these custom T-Shirts in honor of a family member who was killed in an accident.

Of course we can't forget about those portraits. Some folks just wanted a picture of their pooch others wanted to include the kids.

Along with the portraits a few candid shots came out pretty cool.

There were two 1 mile walks to help raise money for the Center. The first one was nice and dry. The second well--Here's a picture of the group that braved the second mile coming in.

While I didn't get any good pictures of the obstacle course, these of the Pet and Owner Look-Alike contest came out pretty good.

And the WINNER IS!

And finally you're never too old for a PUPPY!

I'd like to thank Carla and her staff for putting together this wonderful event. I've already got next years scheduled on my calender.

Monroeville Ohio

2009-07-10T20:40:00.006-04:00

Monroeville

Monroeville is small enough to be considered a village. A quick stroll around will show you it is a simple farming community, yet bustling with the commerce of Rt. 20 going through it.

For a such a small village, Monroeville has quite a number of congregations. Catholic, U.C.C., Lutheran, and up until recently, Episcopal. However, what I really am getting at here is the "church" pictured above. Shari recently made a post regarding some folks who turned a former church into their home. This former Episcopalian church is another example of that. (The congregation became too small for self-support, so they combined themselves with the church in Norwalk) The only thing they never got to was the steeple!

Above is St. Joseph's Catholic Church, all decked out for Christmas.

Most of the homes in the village are original. ALL are interesting in their own ways. The architectural work put into every one of them makes this village a jewel. This house pictured above, for example, actually faces out towards the park (and towards St. Joseph's church along the way), not towards the street.

The house below (the "Octogan House") was the pastoral residence for St. Joseph's for many years. It is still there, barely unchanged from the picture you see. When heading west on Rt. 20 through Monroeville, you will see it.

Of course there is more to this little village than pretty houses. A local pizza parlor, ice cream stop, old-school barber shop and some coffee shops. All over town you will see wood carvings made by a local. He used to have a wood carving shop right in town.

More on North Central Ohio & Huron County later!

More Paint

2009-07-09T21:41:00.004-04:00

The Barn Quilts weren't the only painted building/structure I found while driving around in Miami county.

This old school house was given a new look in celebration of the 2007 bicentennial. Not sure if I agree with painting the brick of the building but they did a nice job. Unlike the various artist who contributed to the painting of this bridge.

TAG YOUR IT.

Miami County Barn Quilts

2009-07-08T22:37:00.009-04:00

"One of Ohio's county's quest to connect its rural towns led to a painted trail." Check out Mary Quinley's article in Quilter Magazine for a great story on this amazing project.

With over 60 quilt patterns scattered across Miami County its hard not to find one of these in your travels through the county. I just wished I had got to this sooner. Three years exposed to the elements has started to take its toll on some of these.

I started a side bar slide-show to display these as I find/receive them but have decided to add it to the bottom of the post section to get a bigger picture.

I could not find a printed guide but there is an interactive map on the Visit Miami County web site.

If you have pictures of these barns you would like to share please send them to rrm.photo@gmail.com.

Night Life in Auglaize County

2009-07-07T21:32:00.004-04:00

The following picture and story were sent to me by Lee Miller.

These little guys lived in a tree, and would come out to see the world. That particular night was the first rain they had ever seen, and they would come out of the woods onto the cement drive to find little puddles and would take their hands and splash in the water.

I knelt down, and I will never forget….one climbed on my knee, took my camera strap and pulled it down hand over hand looking at it very closely as he pulled it. They would pull on your shoe string with their teeth like puppies. I have no idea where momma was, but the babies were not too afraid, But, they had nothing to be afraid of there.

Thanks Lee, great story and picture. Those guys are just too cute.

Oak Grove School, Wildwood Metropark, Toledo

2009-07-06T23:16:00.004-04:00

This old schoolhouse, built in 1893, stood on the former Albon farm and served what was at that time a solidly rural populace, quite a distance from dirty, noisy Toledo. Picture farm children walking a mile to school in heat or cold, after having done farm chores for a couple of hours before ever leaving home - and doing more of them after walking back in the afternoon!The school closed in 1926 when a township school district was established. After that, it underwent usage as diverse as a chicken coop, a home, and a church! The area gradually and eventually became a well-heeled suburb. The land on which the school stood, bordered the estate of the Stranahans, one of Toledo's foremost historical families. In 1974, the Stranahan estate passed via a vote of the people, into the hands of the metropark system and was developed into what is now one of Toledo's most popular parks, Wildwood. The schoolhouse, still at the edge of the park, was moved in 1998 to a more central location within the park, in order to both get it out of the way of a planned subdivision and to make it available to park visitors.
The park offers step-back-in-time programs for both adults and children, where a schoolmarm will teach you readin', writin', and 'rithmetic.
I'm not sure if these constitute either the drinking fountain, or the bathrooms!

http://www.metroparkstoledo.com/metroparks/explore/display.asp?id=93&subj=explore

Buckeye Pride spotted at the Ball Park

2009-07-06T21:11:00.002-04:00

Caught this Buckeye fan at my granddaughters softball game.

Fourth of July Fireworks, Sidney

2009-07-04T23:46:00.000-04:00

While I didn't make it to any of the local community parades, I did manage to make it to the local fireworks display. I screwed up my focus somewhere along the way but I got a few that came out okay.

The rain stopped for the event and the parking lot around the school filled up in the last minutes before the show. Nothing spectacular but still a nice family community event.

I was with my wife so I just shot from the vantage point that I had. So I did not get the fireworks with the interesting foreground element that I would of liked.

Maria Stein Country Fest Sand Sculpture

2009-07-03T23:22:00.006-04:00

Well I didn't make it to this years Maria Stein Country Fest. So I was pretty happy when I found this years Sand Sculpture still intact this weekend while taking pictures of my son and his girlfriend on the grounds.

The festival is noted for its square dancing tractors and this sand sculpture.

John W. Carey Tribute

2009-07-02T18:55:00.016-04:00

John Carey not only had an influence in nearby Sidney, but is the founder of my hometown Anna. He had originally named the town Carey's Station but later changed it to Anna in honor of his daughter.

Anna is also home to the local High school's Anna Rockets as noted by the town water tower.

The latest town renovation was a complete overhaul of the main street through town. Street lights now escort you from one end of town to the other.

There are two churches in the town, Anna Methodist and St. Jacob Lutheran pictured here.

There is a placard memorial that gives the details of our founding father beside the Village Hall.

In the town of Sidney just 10 miles south of Anna, Carey built Carey's Hall along with the local jail and did work on the Big Four Railroad Bridge.

"The Old Jail" was closed in 1994 when a new facility was opened. The jail was operational from 1875 till then.

The "Big Four Bridge" is named for the four major railroads that had ownership at one time (Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis). It truly is an engineering feet and back in the day people would come just to see this marvel in concrete.

The bridge spans the Great Miami River and two roads.

Check out what Rich Wallace a local historian has to say about the Big 4 Bridge for more information on this unique landmark.

Anna Homecoming

2009-06-28T20:45:00.017-04:00

Like a lot of communities my hometown of Anna has an annual festival complete with parade. The homecoming queen competition is huge and is where the festival gets its name--"Anna Homecoming".

This year my wife and I made our annual pilgrimage with our grandchildren. We have seven; three girls and four boys. We missed the parade and the kids are more interested in games and rides than they are homecoming competitions so I have no pictures of those events.

This is definitely a kid friendly event, with rides for young and old.

My granddaughters tried out he face painting booth.

They rode every ride there with the Musical Swings, Tempest and the Fun Slide being their favorites.

As you can see the girls have a bit of a competitive streak in them.

They even had a small coaster. It took several times through but two of the boys finally got to ride in the first car.

One of the boys went in the Run-A-Muck fun house and never came out. We waited and waited and finally had to track him down. We found him hiding in the ball pit.

While Nanna and the kids took a break for some food and drink, I cruised over to the car show and took these.

How cool to find a Buckeye Car for the My Hometown Ohio blog.

I just loved this patriotic Dodge and who doesn't love Betty Boop.

This last one is my favorite night shot.

These community festivals are a great way to get out and have some good ole fashion family fun. We make the trip every year and every year the kids can't wait to do it again.

Left Click on any Image for are larger view.

Rushsylvania

2009-06-24T16:15:00.001-04:00

Growing up with Béla Lugosi as Dracula and Lon Chaney Jr's werewolf its hard for me not to think of Transylvania any time I find a town who's name ends in -sylvania. But there's nothing spooky about this little town. It is small, only about a half block long. For it's size I found an abundant amount of things to shoot, starting with this great mural.

They even managed to squeeze in a park complete with this 3 inch Gun from the past.

The Old Township Hall adds to the rustic feel of the place.

I had been through the town before and was planning on having lunch at Michael Angelo's Pizza. Unfortunately it was closed. In fact the only thing I found open was the Marathon Gas Station.

The town has a very nice and modern looking firehouse with a small glassed in museum in the front. On display were some fire fighting equipment from the past and a nicely restored 1884 Rumsey Hand Drawn Pumper. Due to the limited shooting space, I was unable to get a picture of the pumper.

Like a lot of small towns the railroad goes through on the edge of town where the old grain elevator sits.

I just love finding and exploring these small hometowns. Sometimes it might take a little work but you will find something if you look hard enough.

Sculptures on the Square (Troy)

2009-06-23T18:00:00.000-04:00

Towns featuring sculptures seems to be a growing trend. I recently visited Troy and found these. There are over 20 sculptures. Most of them are bronze figures but there is the occasional abstract to keep you guessing.

I really liked this one titled "High Spirits".

This one called "Watchful Doe" was a favorite with the kids.

"Water Dance" featuring an otter and turtle was in my opinion one of the better bronze sculptures.

My favorite capture for the day was this one. There are actually three figures, I just included two in my picture. The piece is titled "Confessions"

You do not have to walk far to see the sculptures and there is plenty to look at and explore in downtown Troy to make it worth a visit.

Holy Angels Parish Picnic

2009-06-22T23:15:00.001-04:00

One of the things that I remember growing up is going to the Parish Picnic. My dad would have a beer or two, or three...you get the idea. My mom would not be happy unless she won a cake and had some quality BINGO time. For me it was all about the food "Love those chicken dinners" and GAMBLING for real money--what a treat!. There were plenty of ways to squander a buck or two but my favorite was the Chuck-A-Luck Wheel.

The rides have been around for awhile but back in my day you spent your money on three things--Food, Beer and Gambling. I think the rides have become almost expected in today's market.

Entertainment has always been on hand. Of course back then it was Old Country today it was Rock-N-Roll. The band was actually pretty good.

Entrepreneur's are also welcomed. A neighbor boy of mine setup a "Marshmallow Gun" booth. The guns proved to be a hot item and he sold out before the evening ended.

He said he lost track of how many people commented on the misspelling of Marshmallow on the sign. He said he was using it as a marketing tool.

Besides the food--can you say funnel cakes and sugar waffles. It's always nice just to run into people you know but don't get to see very often.

Armstrong Air & Space Museum (Wapakoneta)

2009-06-21T14:47:00.008-04:00

July 20th 2009 will mark the 40 year anniversary of Neil Armstrong's historical first step on the moon.

I have passed by the museum many times but had never visited it until now.

The museum chronicles Neil Armstrong, who is a Wapakoneta native achievements.

There is plenty to see and appreciate. There are interactive displays as well as a theater. This moon rock is one of the largest I've seen.

There are numerous Apollo 11 artifacts, a Gemini VIII Space craft and the experimental F5D Skylancer Plane that Armstrong flew in preparation for space flight.

I was surprised to find the amount and quality of material on display at the museum and was glad I went.

Farmers Market (Sidney)

2009-06-20T16:55:00.008-04:00

Every year from June to October on Saturday mornings you can find the Farmers Market in downtown Sidney around the Court Square.

It's a great place to pickup fresh fruits and vegetables.

Flowers are also available. These were being sold by "Herbs, Flowers, Produce, & More". Justin Mohler and Lisa Vondenhuevel run the stand.

My wife is the fruit and veggie shopper. I like checking out and looking for the odd items, like these Kiln Formed Bottles by Sarah Barr, a local Glass Artist. They make a great cheese severing tray as well a conversation piece.

Weather permitting it's a popular event and draws a pretty good crowd.

I think it's a great way to start your Saturday morning.

One of the best uses I've seen for a closed church...

2009-06-19T19:43:00.004-04:00

In the tiny intersection town of Scotch Ridge, just a few miles west of Pemberville, stands THIS little gem. Formerly the Scotch Ridge Presbyterian Church, the congregation folded a short while back. I don't know exactly how long ago, but my guess is that they merged with the Presbyterian church in Pemberville. At any rate, the church itself was sold, and is now the private home of the VERY lucky Martin family.

It appears to be impeccably maintained. Even the bell is still in the bell tower, and perhaps they can still ring it.

I hope they leave this board up, just as it is!
How would you like to read your evening paper ... or any other good book (Good Book?) ... by the light of the sun shining through THIS?!

King Lear, Dayton

2009-06-15T20:59:00.008-04:00

I was chatting with one of the street workers in downtown Dayton about the City Life sculptures when she pointed across the way to this very large statue. She said she thought it was Jesus. Closer inspection and my map confirmed that it was a 25 foot statue of King Lear also by J. Seward Johnson.

The sculptures are on display until August 14. There is even a photo contest in conjunction with the exhibit. Go to Downtown Dayton for more details.

City Life 2009 (Dayton)

2009-06-13T22:55:00.013-04:00

City Life 2009 is a Downtown Dayton Sculpture Walk consisting of 16 sculptures by J. Seward Johnson, Jr.

When I came upon the above sculpture titled "My Dog Has Fleas", I first thought it was a real street musician. You can imagine my surprise when I found out different.

Some of the sculptures are American culture icons such as this lovely couple titled "God Bless America".

Some of them were very life like. This woman carry groceries and the man trimming a bush brought curious looks from several people passing by.

"Holding Out"

"Gotcha"

Others were a combination of bronze and realism.

"Things To Do"

After I had stumbled upon a few on my own I found a map to all the sculptures. While I did not get a picture of all them, I still had a fun walk in the city.

Class of 2009 (Sidney)

2009-06-12T21:50:00.003-04:00

One of Sidney's unique traditions is the allowing of the graduating class to graffiti this old concrete railroad bridge support.

While the bridge has been long gone the tradition goes back as far as I can remember.

Fallen Timbers Monument, Maumee

2009-06-10T15:16:00.007-04:00

This monument, in Maumee just west of Toledo, stands on a portion of the battlefield where, on Aug. 20, 1794, Gen. "Mad" Anthony Wayne and his army met the Native American confederacy led by Chief Little Turtle. Casualties were relatively light on both sides in spite of fierce fighting. But, this victory for Gen. Wayne's army led to the signing of the Treaty of Greenville, which opened the way for US settlement of the Northwest Territory; aka, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Just nine years later, Ohio would become a state.

The figures on the monument are Gen. Wayne flanked by a Kentucky militiaman and a Native American warrior.

The monument has numerous plaques and reliefs memorializing the various combatants, and notably honors the Native Americans who fought and died as well as the US forces. According to the monument's website: " The monument site is a symbol of recognition and reconciliation for American Indians."

A section of the area where the armies marched in to meet each other, looking down the hill from the monument, across the floodplains toward the Maumee River.

http://www.fallentimbersbattlefield.com/

http://www.metroparkstoledo.com/metroparks/fallentimbers/

Pyramid Hill

2009-06-08T23:25:00.007-04:00

Pyramid Hill is a sculpture park and museum spread out over 265 acres of woodlands, gardens and lakes, with over 65 monumental sculptures. The park is located in Hamilton Ohio, just north of Cincinnati.

Most of the sculptures are abstract but a few such as Adams First Breath and Citizen are recognizable forms.

These two reminded me of two LazyBoy Recliners.

The park is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. If you're ever in the area I would recommend stopping in and checking it out.

Eldean Covered Bridge

2009-06-04T20:58:00.003-04:00

Spanning 224 feet over the Miami River the Eldean Covered Bridge in Troy is one of the longest covered bridges in Ohio and the nation.

According to the Historical Marker the bridge was constructed in 1860 and restored in 2005/2006.

Buffalo Jack's in Covington Ohio

2009-06-02T23:57:00.000-04:00

Get ready for a bite on the wild side!

"How's the rattlesnake?" "Can you pass the alligator please." "You simply must try the elk or antelope." "I hear the wild boar is fantastic." What sounds like a conversation from the buffet from Man Versus Wild is actually what you might hear inside of Buffalo Jacks.

You can find all these dishes on their exotic dinning menu. Of course there is plenty of regular food for the not so brave. I couldn't pass up on the $10.95 all you can eat Walleye but I did sample some alligator, buffalo and elk.

The decor goes along with the western theme of the name inside and out with wild game trophies and Native American Art.

The food and service were both excellent. If you're ever in the area you definitely need to stop and have a bite at Buffalo Jack's.

Fletcher Covered Bridge and Neighborhood Finds

2009-06-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

Fletcher is located just east of Piqua on State Route 36. It's a small community of just over 500 people. I was invited there to give a talk on photography to the local 4H Club. I arrived early so I could look around and take some pictures. My first stop was the local landmark, Fletcher Covered Bridge.

I still had some time to kill so I took a quick stroll. I was delighted to find this historical vehicle and driver still looking for the parade.

I thought that was my find for the day until I came across this pair of Guard Dogs.

Landmarks are an important part of any community but it's the little things that help define it. I'd say that the town of Fletcher has a nice covered bridge and a great sense of humor.

King of Kings

2009-05-31T11:11:00.000-04:00

While on a business trip in Cincinnati I stopped by the Solid Rock Church in Monroe to get a picture of the King of Kings Statue.

The statue stands 62 foot tall and is reported to be the largest sculpture of Jesus Christ in the United States. The sculpture can be seen from Interstate 75.

It's easy to see how the statue has gotten two of it's nicknames, Touchdown Jesus and Big Butter Jesus. The comedian Heywood Banks made the statue even more famous when he wrote the song "Big Butter Jesus". The Big Butter reference comes from the statues resemblance to statues carved out of butter you see at the state fair.

The water was too choppy for me to get a good reflection shot. I bet this would make for a great night shot.

Gene's Barber Center on Third Street

2009-05-30T12:06:00.000-04:00

This post was given to me by Julie Zickefoose a freelance writer and artist living in Marietta Ohio. Her story and pictures gives us a glimpse in to her hometown barbershop as she takes us along on her son's haircut.

"A Haircut for Liam"
Given his druthers, Liam would prefer to keep his hair buzzed short all the time. But he's got such glorious piles of white hair, and it smells so good--like sun and wind and cookies. So, selfishly, I let it grow and grow until he looks like an albino spider monkey. He can't get it cut unless I take him.

Religious holidays have a way of pointing out such things, and Liam and Phoebe's first Communion is tomorrow, and it just doesn't seem right to let him go into it looking like a haystack. So I took him for a haircut.
Gene's Barber Center is on Third Street in Marietta. It's a great location. Gene doesn't miss much, and he's always watching out his big picture window, speculating on who this or that is, or telling the person's life story if he knows it (and he usually does). Gene's hobby is figuring out who everyone is and who they're related to, and he searches his considerable memory banks for the affiliation of every person he sees on that sidewalk or street. I think I'm a bit of a conundrum to him. He keeps trying to link me up with Sigafoos Insurance Agency on Putnam Street, but it doesn't work. I come from away. No lineage here.
His Barber Center is austere; the decor hasn't changed much in the last two decades. I never go in there without biting my tongue.

I would love to loan Gene a few plants for that fabulous window, or maybe hang some prints on the faux walnut paneling. But its austerity is also its charm. Gene rents the place, so why should he fix it up? He's a one-chair man. And besides, all the action is outside the window.

Liam absolutely loves having his hair cut; he loves going to the doctor and dentist, too. Maybe it's because he's the center of attention there, and because he gets messed with. He loves to be messed with.

Even if it tickles.

Gene keeps up a running commentary. Here's a sample, and I think I remember it right:

"That man's got a nice red convertible. Isn't that a nice car? There was a car like that the other day, and there was a baby squirrel only six weeks old playing out in the road, and that car just flattened that squirrel, rolled it right out. The woman driving was talking on her cell phone, and she never even slowed down for him. Wasn't paying attention at all. That squirrel didn't sit up; he didn't get up; he didn't have a chance. The girls next door were feeding him, and he would go up to anybody, and before long he got to thinking that everybody had food for him. So they didn't do that squirrel a favor. They thought they did, though. They thought they were being kind to him. No, sir. That squirrel didn't know which end was up."

We both love going to Gene's.

The original story "A Haircut for Liam" can be found along with many others in her blog: Julie Zickefoose.

Life is Precious

2009-05-28T23:48:00.000-04:00

This wonderful memorial to children who have died can be found outside the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in McCartyville in Shelby County just off of State Route 119.

The Quilted Rock

2009-05-28T22:51:00.000-04:00

You will find this odd looking site just outside of Wabash as you travel east on State Route 29 to Celina. I have no idea on the history or the thinking behind it. The sign on top of the rock is for a local quarry.

Anna Street Lights at Night

2009-05-28T22:13:00.000-04:00

Anna Ohio, is a small community just north of Sidney. The most recent town improvement project was the addition of street lights on the main street through town.

Some of us think they may have overdone it a bit.

Sidney's Covered Bridge

2009-05-26T23:51:00.001-04:00

The official name is William Ross Covered Bridge. The bridge was dedicated in 1971 and is located in Tawawa Park in Sidney, the county seat of Shelby County. As you can imagine it is one of the parks most photographed landmarks. The bridge spans Tawawa Creek and is open to foot and motor traffic. The bridge resembles several covered bridges constructed in Central Ohio by pioneer bridge designer and builder, Rueben L. Partridge (1823-1900).