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
Magical Treasure Hunt
During the afternoon of August 1, more than 40 youngsters came to our Museum to participate in a Magical Treasure Hunt. The event was part of a Harry Potter style "Wands and Wizards" weekend organized by the Fairfield County Visitors and Convention Bureau.
Treasure hunters at our Museum had to use their magical powers to follow the clues and find the hidden treasure.
Prizes were awarded to the successful treasure hunters.
Historical Society volunteers Peggy Portier, Suellen Goldsberry, and Fiona Spears organized and hosted this event.
Life on the Ohio-Erie Canal
Professor Chris Hart portrayed canal boat Captain John B. Reynolds during our Historical Society's August 10 meeting/program. His amusing 1863 tales included hoagies, Miss Uno, barrels of whiskey, Abe Lincoln, and more!
Don't miss our September 14, 1pm program: OHIO PRESIDENTIAL FIRST LADIES' HISTORY, JEWELRY & FASHION.
Through the Years: August Happenings in our Community
August 1, 1972: Welcome Wagon Club of Violet Township was organized. The Group now is the Violet Township Women's League.
August 13, 1849: Bowen School -- at Bowen & Schoolhouse roads, was built. This school is still standing and has been restored as a private residence.
August 23, 1989: McDonald's Restaurant opened in Pickerington at Hill & Refugee roads.
August 24, 1908: Natural gas came to Pickerington.
August 29, 1977: Violet Grange honored Dr. K. W. Taylor on his retirement after serving the community for nearly a half century.
August 30, 1963: "The Pickerington School Bell" was started by superintendent Don E. Heft. This school newsletter was sent to each home monthly.
August 31, 1977: The Blacklick-Tussing covered bridge collapsed under the weight of a gravel truck carrying 17 tons of gravel. The bridge had been constructed in 1888.
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
