Roots in the Past . . . Vision for the Future

Greenfield has a rich heritage and a great opportunity to further preserve that heritage and share it with not only the residents of Greenfield, but with interested citizens across the country. It is with this idea in mind that the Greenfield Historical Society formulates its vision for the future. With its current historical property complex, which includes Travellers Rest, the Smith Tannery, the B&O Railroad Depot, the Greenfield Grain and Hay, and the Old Seceders Presbyterian Church - Early 2-Room School, the challenge is to craft a master plan which not only best utilizes these properties, but defines a vision of educational programming, preservation, and community involvement.

One only needs to think of some of the many historical themes that have a connection to Greenfield to begin to see some of the possibilities:

• Anti-Slavery Crusade - Greenfield played a significant role
  • First sermon from a pulpit against slavery west of Alleghenies
  • Shelter given to Frederick Douglass
  • Shelter given to Eliza Jane Harris (Uncle Tom’s Cabin fame)
  • Leadership to the Underground Railroad (UGRR)
  • UGRR stations still exist
• C.R. Patterson & Son
  • Greenfield played a strong role in support of African-American freedom
  • C.R. Patterson, former slave, was the only black automaker
• Greenfield was the home for many Early Entrepreneurs and Businesses
  • John M. Waddell
  • E.L. McClain
  • J.A. Harps
  • Spring Grove Dairy
  • Sun Manufacturing Co.
  • Rucker Stone Co.
  • Corey-Patterson Co.
  • and others
• Education
  • E.L. McClain High School with its rich heritage and artwork
  • First two-room school in Ohio was in Greenfield (and the building still exists)
• Some other Greenfield Notables. . .
  • Duncan McArthur
  • General John Edwin Hull
  • Admiral Noble E. Irwin
  • Writers, including Otway Curry, Albert Beveridge, Helen Hoover, etc.
  • John Mains
  • Johnny Paycheck
  • W.R. Konneker
  • F.R. Harris
• Some other Historic Themes. . .
  • The Women’s Crusade against the saloons began in Greenfield. This could be developed into an exhibit or even a play
  • Artwork and noted individuals in the cemeteries could lead to tours etc.
  • Former slave who saved town hall from fire
  • Artwork at the High School

As you can see, Greenfield is rich in historic resources. The challenge is to save historic structures before they are destroyed and to preserve Greenfield history and educate future generations.

Many exciting ideas have been suggested as we articulate our Vision:

Travellers Rest

Could be returned to an inn/tavern type of operation, with a meeting area, gift sales area

The B&O Depot

Could be established as a Railroad museum

The Smith Tannery

Could be established as an Underground Railroad and Tannery exhibit/museum, with crafts and educational activities

Greenfield Grain & Hay complex

Could be established as a Patterson museum, archives/research facility, meeting facility, and agricultural museum

Future Opportunities could include. . .

• Completion of repair and renovation of the first two-room school in Ohio and use for educational exhibits
• Acquisition of an early livery stable, still standing near Paint Creek
• Further enhancement of the Paint Creek corridor for walking, biking, canoeing activities
• Hosting outdoor dramas and educational programs; creating self-guided walking tours, and more

Creating our Vision for the Future will require a Collaborative Effort, utilizing the collective thinking of many individuals to further define the vision and plan for its implementation. A Diverse Mix of Talent including all interested individuals, businesses, elected officials, educators, students, community leaders, non-profit organizations, artists and arts organizations, churches, etc will be sought. Partnerships with other organizations are vital to accomplish all of the goals.

Why not with this exciting project?