About Us
Historical Society Mission and History:
The Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society has been an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization since 1987. Its mission is to preserve our community's past for future generations to see and use.
Our Historical Society has maintained a museum in the community's Carnegie Library since 1993 -- the year the library moved into its new facility. The Carnegie Library originally opened in 1916 with the aid of a $10,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie. The building remains one of the few Carnegie-financed buildings that exist in Central Ohio.
Our Museum:
Our Museum, located in the center of historic downtown Pickerington, tells the story of Pickerington-Violet Township. Admission is free.
Artifacts include prehistoric Native American tools and weapons collected around Pickerington, an original town pump, restored 1879 Taber pump organ, the cooking stove and photos once residing inside Moore's Pool Hall, photos of our high school graduating classes from 1909-1981, and much more.
A reference and reading area is available for public research of historic documents, directories, and photos, along with a searchable database of all graves in Violet Cemetery.
Getting Involved:
Inasmuch as we are an all-volunteer organization, we depend upon the generosity of our Historical Society members, Museum visitors, and the community for support and funding of projects and programs.
You can help by:
- Becoming a member. Click for Membership Application and more information.
- Volunteering to help at our Museum on Second Saturdays, for tours, special events, and Museum maintenance. For more information or to sign up, contact Volunteer Coordinator, Stephanie Johnson (right in photo) at "Contact Us" below or visit Volunteer Sign Up to choose a date/event.
- Donating an object/document of local historical interest, or making a monetary contribution at the "Donate Now" box.
Historical Society News
Trail of Scarecrows: October 1-31
Pickerington businesses, organizations, schools, groups, and individuals are invited to create a scarecrow and install it at a participating location -- such as our Historical Museum's lawn. A $50 gift card will be awarded to the People's Choice winner.
If you are interested in participating, email the Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society. Details and an application form will be emailed to you. Deadline to enter is September 20, 2019. Cost to enter is $5.00.
Remarkable Volunteer!
Clover Rogers,
who is 94 years young, is one of the Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society's most active members!
She brings cupcakes, cookies, or other desserts to our Second Saturday afternoon programs; always participates in fundraisers for our Historical Society; and helps with our Spring Chocolate Hops and other special events.
Thanks, Clover!
Through the Years: September Happenings in our Community
Sept 1, 1916: On Labor Day, 1916, the Carnegie Library/Violet Township Library was dedicated. This historic building now houses the Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society.
Sept 4, 1911: The first Labor Day homecoming and parade was organized by Dr. W.B. Taylor, James G. Kraner, and P.B. Mason.
Sept 7, 1986: The Zeller-Smith covered bridge was moved from Busey Road to Sycamore Creek Park.
Sept 11, 1815: Jacksonville was laid out by Abraham Pickering. The village's name was later changed to Pickerington.
Sept 13, 1808: Violet Township was formed.
Sept 16, 1966: The Pickerington Tigers football team won their first game, beating Canal Winchester 8-0.
Sept 25, 1989: When school started, 3,938 students were enrolled in the PLSD.
Sept 30, 1951: The cornerstone was laid for Peace United Methodist Church.
Donate
The generous support and contributions from people like you enable us to collect and preserve local history for future generations. The Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Your donation may be tax deductible. Please contact your tax advisor for information.
Thank you!
Business Members and Sponsors
