Seneca County Museum

In 1853, life was simple and pure. Walk through the door of Tiffin's first millionaire's home, which is now the Seneca County Museum, and experience life as it was then. Tour the 18-room Greek Revival historic home which displays everything from the life of a millionaire to the beauty of Tiffin Glass and other fine treasures. Be sure to save a few minutes to take a step outside to view the carriage house with antique fire equipment and horse-drawn wagons. Limited hours; call for appointment.

Garden Lovers Enjoy "English Cottages & Gardens" Program featuring Janet del Turco

Over 30 visitors enjoyed the museum's open house and program on Sunday, May 19th. This was the 2nd event in a series of monthly programs that have been planned and organized by the Seneca County Museum Docents. Janet del Turco shared her experiences with gardening with the visitors and offered suggestions for improving our own gardens, including vegetable gardens!

3rd Graders Invade the Seneca County Museum!!!

On Thursday, May 16th, the 3rd graders made their annual trek to the museum! It was a beautiful day and thanks to the help of the Seneca County Museum docents the Seneca County Museum hosted 234 students and 61 teachers/chaperones!

Seneca County Museum Docents Enjoy the Clyde Museum & McPherson House

The Seneca County Museum docents traveled to Clyde, Ohio on Tuesday, May 14th to tour the Clyde Museum and the McPherson House. Museum Curator, Brenda Stultz hosted the tour group and everyone had a very enjoyable day!

Ken Davison Gives Program entitled "The War of 1812 - Reconsidered"

Ken Davison was the guest speaker at the Seneca County Historical Society's April meeting on Monday, April 22nd at the Fort Ball Room. Over 30 members and guests enjoyed the program that Mr. Davison said was one he had first given 50 years ago. We are in the Bicentennial years of the War of 1812, that actually started before 1812 and went on for many years after. This was a war that produced no significantly great leaders as other wars have done. Plus, no country: England, Canada or America can claim a victory or benefited from this conflict. The Indians tribes were actually the big losers because they continuously backed the wrong armies (England and France) during the early wars in America and were eventually forced from their lands as the United States expanded west. Ken finished the program with a collection of illustrations featuring the signifcant battles, maps and people involved in the War of 1812 - a forgotten war in history.

Welcome to New Docent -
Jamie Velliquette

Jamie recently joined the Seneca County Museum docents, She served in the USAF from 1999 - 2003 and was a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Jamie graduated from the University of Texas in 2007 with a BA in English Literature. She is currently pursuing Masters in Health Care Administration from Phoenix University online. Jamie's hobbies include running, playing the piano and she's a published poet. Jamie has already been working hard helping with the 1913 Flood program displays and with cleaning of the museum! Please welcome Jamie and thank her for her service if you see her!

PBS Contacts Seneca County Museum for Help with Program

Danielle Muniz from the PBS program "Need to Know", contacted the Seneca County Museum for permission to use a photo from our website. The subject of this program deals with how Ohio workers are faring after the loss of millions of manufacturing jobs over the past 35 years. They also asked for use of other photos that would show employess working on their jobs and these were provided by Mark Steinmetz. The "Need to Know" program first aired on Friday, April 12th and the Seneca County Museum was given credit for this photo.

1913 Flood Programs on Sunday, April 14th Bring In Over 140 Visitors to Museum!!!

In conjunction with the 1913 Flood Memorial being held on Sunday, April 14th at 3:30, the Seneca County Museum held an encore presentation of Mark Steinmetz's 1913 Flood program. The room was overflowing and the decision was made to hold a 2nd program at 6 PM because many were turned away due to the lack of space. In all, over 140 visitors enjoyed not only the program and 1913 flood display, but they also toured the museum! Many thanks to all those who shared their afternoon with us!

Fort Ball Room Display features 100 Year Anniversary of 1913 Flood

A new display was ready for viewing on Tuesday, March 26th in the Fort Ball Room. This display covers several aspects of the flood including: artwork depicting the nationwide effects of the flood, old photos and newspaper headlines, stories of the relief effort and the process of widening the river. There are also aerial photos showing the 100 year and 500 year flood plain information and diagrams showing where houses were moved after the flood.

From Easter to Tragedy

Historical artwork depicting the nationwide flood along with local artifacts.

Photos & Newspapers

Rare stereo photos from the 1913 flood and alsofront page headlines.

Widening the River

City of Tiffin maps and artifacts used in the widening of the river to prevent future flooding.

Dare devil bike

On display is the last bike to cross the Market Street bridge before it collapsed into the river!

Large Turnout for
1913 Flood Program

It was a full house and then some for the Seneca County Historical Society's March 25th meeting that featured a program to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1913 Flood. Mark Steinmetz presented a power point program showing many photos from the collections of the museum and other private collections. Of special interest, Mark provided views from around town in 1913 and how that same view looks today!

East Perry St. - 1913

A view on East Pery Street looking west from Clinton Ave in 1913

East Perry St. - 2013

The same view as the photo on the left in 2013.

Visit the Klingshirn Neighborhood - E. Davis St.

The lots located near the river on East Davis Street is the area where the Knecht's and the Klingshirns lived in 1913. These lots have been located and marked with their names, spray-painted on the street. The names are position approximately where the house would've been located on that fatefull day in 1913, when they lost their lives to a raging river.

Join Us on FACEBOOK

If you love local history and vintage photos from Tiffin and Seneca County, be a part of a growing movement and join The Seneca County Museum on Facebook! There you see posts announcing what happen on "This Day in Seneca County History" or check out the latest "Vintage Photo of the Day" that takes us back to the Good Old Days!

Example of "Vintage Photo of the Day"

Westgate Shopping Center photo taken in 1969.

The Seneca County Museum Hosts a Discussion Group

Dr. John Cinnamon of Miami University researching American Standard history

Two weeks ago the Seneca County Museum received a call from Dr.John Cinnamon, Associate Professor of Anthropology from Miami University. Dr. Cinnamon was looking for someone who could help him learn more about the closing of the American Standard plant in Tiffin. There's a possibility that he could write a paper on this subject, however, his real reason is to tell the American Standard story to his students, so they can understand how globalization has affected everyone's lives. Mark Steinmetz worked for 26 years for American Standard and he quickly contacted some of his former co-workers so that Dr. Cinnamon could hear their stories and ask them his questions. On Saturday, January 26th, a discussion group was held with Dr. Cinnamon that included: Lloyd Miller, Ed Fatzinger, Mike Fisher, Terry Frankart, Jane Birch, Donna Elchert and Mark Steinmetz. Ironically, Dr. Cinnamon's grandfather once operated a grocery store in downtown Tiffin in the late 1930's and Tonia Hoffert found a photo of the store for John!

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Holly Stacy was sworn in as a new
Seneca County Commissioner
at the Seneca County Museum on
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012.

Holly Stacy being sworn in by Judge Mark Repp with Holly's daughter, Diana holding the bible and husband Doug Stacy at her side

The Stacy family (left to right) Dean Stacy (son), Doug Stacy (husband), Holly Stacy, Diana Stacy (daughter), Velma and Dale Stacy (Holly's mother and father-in-law)

The Stacy family braved the snow, wind and cold to proceed with the planned swearing-in ceremony that was held at the Seneca County Museum at 1 PM on Wednesday, December 26th. Those in attendance included: Commissioner Jeff Wagner, County Auditor Julie Adkins, newly elected County Commissioner Fred Zoller, former commissioner Kenneth Estep and many family members and friends. The ceremony was held in the east room of the parlor that contains the portraits of Edward Tiffin (1st Governor of Ohio), Josiah Hedges (founder of Tiffin) and Della Laird (wife of Rezin Shawhan).

The Stacy name carries with it a connection with the Seneca County Museum that has been passed through the generations. Clyde S. Stacy was commissioner when the museum was restored in 1955 and his name is on the cornerstone on the SW corner of the building. Inside of the Fort Ball Room is a plaque with Dale L. Stacy's name (son of Clyde S. Stacy) honoring the 1978 dedication of that important museum addition. Now, Holly becomes the 3rd generation of Stacy's to become a Seneca County Commissioner and it seemed only fitting that she begins her journey at the Seneca County Museum.

Museum cornerstone showing Commissioner Clyde S. Stacy's name

Museum plague inside the Fort Ball Room showing Commissioner Dale Stacy's name

Seneca County Museum Completes A Successful "Holidays Happenings" Weekend

The Seneca County Museum completed its first "Holiday Happenings" weekend that featured a sneak preview of the 1884 Courthouse Cornerstone items. Along with the courthouse artifacts raffle items, there were courthouse photos, postcards, sketches and even Ohio State Christmas trees up for sale!

The Seneca County Historical Society would like to thank David Kreais for his donation of the 3 courthouse artifacts making this raffle possible. We'd also like to thank all of those people that we've met along the way while selling these raffle tickets. We've learned that there are still plenty of people in this community who have a passion for saving our history for future generations to enjoy. Below are the lucky winners of our artifacts raffle, but the Seneca County Museum was also a winner, because the funds generated will be used to keep our museum open. Thanks to everyone who participated!

1884 Courthouse Artifacts Raffle Results -
And the Winners Are:

Door Mantle

Elizabeth & Larry Ball
of
Tiffin, Ohio

Wall Panel

Phil & Alisa Adams
of
Tiffin, Ohio

Floor Register

Steve Hartzell
of
Tiffin, Ohio

Morel Mushrooms
in November
at the Museum!

Mushroom hunters don't usually give away their hunting spots, but this one is too good to keep a secret. While raking leaves in early November, Mark Steinmetz found 4 Morel mushrooms growing in the front yard of the museum! Finding these Spring-time mushrooms growing in town is rare enough, but totally unheard of in November!

Amvets Sundae Cruise-In a Huge Success!

     Words cannot express the gratitude we have for the Tiffin Amvets who sponsored an Ice Cream Sundae Cruise-in on August 26th where the proceeds benefitted the Seneca County Museum! Very special thanks go out to all of those Amvet volunteers who worked for weeks to prepare for the event and who went above and beyond on the day of the Cruise-in! The food, drinks, entertainment, decorations and all-around organization made this a perfect day! Those special volunteers included: Lynna Stanton, Marcia Vassalle, Charlene Robeson, Doug Poe, Joe Granata, Jani Hartzell, Linda Hindall, Kim Schwalenberg, Denise Feasel, Gina Peacock, Annette Koch, Michelle Smith, Cathy Watson, Andrea Carroll

    Thanks also to the following who gave a donation, a service, their talents and efforts, their time or merchandise for the event and auction including: Pat & John Schultz, Schultz Welding, Bair Bros, Kings Glass, Phat Cakes, Rodger’s Flowers, Tan-It-All, Tiffin Bake Shop, Time Warner Cable, WTTF Radio, K100 Radio, Louden Meadows Golf Course, Circle K, Advanced Auto, Advertiser Tribune, Auto Zone, Beerco, Bel-Mar, Best Break, Carmie’s, Clinton Golf Course, Coppus Motors, Curves, Delilah Abbott – (Argon), Denise Feasel & Joey Granata, Denny’s, Distel’s Septic Service, ECI, Fabrizio Chiropractic, Family Video, Fat Heads, Game Stop, Gina & Tom Peacock, Golden Crown, Heidelberg, Jani Hartzell, Joe & Eloise Granata, Kears Speed Shop, Kuebler Shoes, Mohawk Golf, Molyets, NAPA Auto Parts, Napoli Pizza, Peacock’s Towing, Pit Stop, Saucy Squeeks, Marcia Vassalle, Steve Maiberger, Three Oaks, Tiffin Glass & Mirror, Tiffin Police, Tiffin University, Tiffin Paper Company, TSC, Varsity Barber Shop, Watson Auction & Real Estate, YMCA, Ewald’s, Paulette’s, Rosiers, Smart Style Salon, Fort Ball Pizza, Lee’s Famous Recipe, Ralphs, Riley’s Car Wash, Viaduct, Reineke Ford, Tiffin Hardware, TJ Willies, Jeffrey Jewelry, Neumeister’s Candy, Threads and The County DJ.

    The Seneca County Historical Society is working very hard to keep the museum open and vibrant for all of our citizens to enjoy. However, we can’t do it alone and without the help of the very generous, hard-working people of our community, and especially the members of the Tiffin Amvets Post 48! They have already stepped up to the plate for us several times this year and we are truly indebted to them! Many thanks!

The high wheeler bike with the curious onlookers.

Table #1 of auction items

Cars, cars, everywhere!

The ice cream sundae bar was a big hit for kids of all ages!

The top seller of the day!

Lots of good friends & good food!

Table #2 of auction items

Tonia thanks everyone for a terrific event!

Plenty of muscle cars!

Museum Fundraisers
1884 Seneca County Courthouse Artifacts Raffle & Collectibles

Steve McFerren Courthouse Prints

The Museum has for sale some of Steve McFerren's prints of his sketch of the 1884 Seneca County Courthouse. Each print is numbered and this is a limited edition piece of artwork. Cost is $20 each and profits from the sale of these prints helps benefit the Seneca County Museum!

1884 Courthouse Comemorative Medals

Now available at the Seneca County Museum! Shown below is the front & back sides. Only $10 each and profits from the sale of these go to the Seneca County Museum. There is a limited number of these available, so don’t delay!

War of 1812 Bicentennial Ceremony - June 18th, 2012

June 18th, 2012 marked the 200th anniversary of the beginning of the War of 1812. Because of Seneca County’s direct involvement in this war, the Seneca County Historical Society volunteered to assist “The Ohio War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission” in a state-wide ceremony called: “Raise The Flag!”. Each county in Ohio will receive a 15-star American flag, which will be presented and flown on June 18th. This flag will also fly on other important historical dates that are significant to the Bicentennial of the War of 1812.

Seneca County played an important role in the War of 1812. There were forts built in both Old Fort (Fort Seneca) and in Tiffin (Fort Ball). These 1812 forts were constructed as supply depots and offered provisions and security for the army route along the Sandusky River. Plus, this army supply road was a lifeline to the troops fighting in the thick wilderness of Northwest Ohio and along Lake Erie. Many soldiers died of disease and harsh weather conditions while serving at these forts and it’s time that we honor these forgotten men.

A very nice turnout of patriotic citizens was present on a warm Monday morning, to help commemorate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812. The gathering took place at the gazebo along Frost Parkway, which was also the site of Fort Ball. Guest speakers included: Mayor Aaron Montz, City Administrator Deb Reamer and County Commissioner Jeff Wagner. Brian Courtney then spoke about the history of Fort Ball and Mark Steinmetz delivered the declaration of war on Great Britain from President Madison. Jim Roberts, the Master of Ceremony, kept the ceremony on track and on time, because just as his final words were spoken, the bells of area churches began to ring! Following the ceremony, approximately 50 visitors visited the Seneca County Museum and enjoyed punch and cookies.

Please consider becoming a "Friend of the Museum"

The Seneca County Historical Society is looking for your help to keep the museum doors open for all citizens of Seneca County! Please see the form below!