Have you ever wondered where the materials used to create Hopewell artifacts came from? Join Todd Stephenson, a retired geologist with a passion for North America’s geological history, as he shares the fascinating stories behind the source materials used in some of Ohio’s most distinctive Hopewell artifacts.

This presentation will provide a deeper look at the geological and geographical origins of these materials and what they reveal about the people who lived here centuries ago. Whether you’re a student, a lifelong learner, or simply interested in Ohio history, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the ingenuity and connections of the Hopewell culture.

Welcome to St. Luke’s Church. Consecrated in 1837, this Episcopal church was built by Welsh architect Benjamin Morgan who incorporated designs of noted architects Minard Lafever and Asher Benjamin. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, the first structure in Granville to be so honored.

Designed as a Greek temple, it is considered one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the United States. Its worship space features the original box pews; an altar, lectern, and pulpit crafted from parts of the original high pulpit; a stunning plaster ceiling medallion from which hangs one of only two ornate Sinumbra font chandeliers of its kind in existence; and oil paintings of persons significant in the church’s founding in 1827.

Morgan also worked on Ohio’s Capitol building in Columbus and built the Avery-Downer House, home of The Robbins Hunter Museum.

Discover fascinating details about how the first peacetime army was created, its activity at Fort Harmar and its groundbreaking role in our country’s earliest days.

Dave Baker earned his Bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and his MBA from Ohio University. After retiring from his career as a financial advisor, he became active in community civic groups. He is the author of earlymarietta blog and local history articles and is a former trustee of Ohio History Connection and Friends of the Museums. He currently volunteers as a tour guide at Campus Martius Museum, the Castle Museum and Henderson Hall.

This event is sponsored by the Washington County Library, is FREE and open to the public and will be livestreamed/recorded on our YouTube Channel @CampusMartiusMuseum

With a heart for libraries, Delia Amos Smith, the daughter of General James Amos who founded the Sidney Daily News, left a substantial amount of money in her will to have a new library be constructed for the Sidney community. For many years, the library was in the Monumental Building (which will be a stop on the Open Doors Tour), but with a constant growing collection, the books needed a bigger home. In 1958, the Amos Memorial Public Library opened its doors where it continues to be a light for knowledge and creativity.

Come visit and learn more about the library’s history through a special exhibit! There will also be door prizes (need not be present to win)! We hope you can join us!

Friends of Music Hall is delighted to offer two Indoor Tours of Cincinnati Music Hall as part of Ohio Open Doors 2026. Join Friends of Music Hall program guides for a 2-hour tour that explores a variety of private and public spaces and hear the remarkable stories of Cincinnati Music Hall. The tour speaks to guests of a wide range of ages and interests. If you have a particular interest in history, music, theater, architecture, or Cincinnati culture, this will be a real treat!

Downtown Dayton Historic Walking Tour

Celebrate Ohio Open Doors by exploring the rich history, remarkable architecture, and vibrant revitalization of Downtown Dayton on this guided walking tour. Along the way, you’ll discover the stories of the people, places, and events that helped shape the city while visiting some of Dayton’s most significant historic landmarks.

The tour begins promptly at 5:30 p.m. and lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about 1.5 miles along downtown streets and sidewalks. Participants should be comfortable walking for the duration of the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and you may wish to bring a bottle of water.

Tours are held rain or shine, except in the event of severe weather. Please RSVP.

Discover the traditional art of finger weaving in this hands-on workshop at the Octagon Earthworks. Finger weaving is an ancient textile technique practiced by many Indigenous communities to create beautiful and functional sashes, belts, straps, and other woven items—without the use of a loom.

During this beginner-friendly workshop, participants will learn the basic techniques of finger weaving and begin creating their own woven sash. While most participants will not complete their sash during the two-hour program, everyone will receive all of the materials needed to continue and finish their project at home.

Whether you’re interested in traditional crafts, Indigenous history, or simply learning a new skill, this workshop offers a relaxing and rewarding experience for ages 10 and up.

Celebrate Ohio Open Doors with a journey through Medina Library’s own history! Visit the historic 1907 room, where staff will showcase rare artifacts, photos, and stories from the library’s earliest years as the Franklin Sylvester Library. Also, relax in the library’s community room, and watch historical videos highlighting Medina County’s rich past. Come discover the stories behind our library walls! Registration is recommended. Registration is Required.

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a guided walking tour of six historic churches in downtown Sidney. Participants will explore the rich architectural, religious, and community history of these landmark congregations and learn how they have contributed to the development of the city through the years.

Join friends, neighbors, historians, genealogists, and anyone interested in local, architectural, military, or international history at Clermont County’s beautifully restored Batavia Armory. While many historic armories have disappeared, this thriving landmark has been successfully adapted for a variety of community uses, from local government to live music performances. Enjoy refreshments, a brief presentation on the role of armories in our history, and a behind-the-scenes tour that includes spaces not normally open to the public. Visit the new home of the Clermont County Historical Society during its official housewarming celebration and view historic Village of Batavia ledger books on public display for the first time. Search for family names in these remarkable records, explore the armory’s unique architecture, and experience live music in what many consider the best acoustics in the county.