Places to go and things to see by Gypsy Bev

Cambridge Fire Department Celebrate 150 Years

November 28, 2023
Today the fire station is located at 902 Gaston Avenue.

Fighting fires back in the early 1800s in Cambridge was very different than today. The most common method was the bucket brigade where leather buckets were passed by hand from a well or stream to the fire and back again. Those methods did not prove adequate before long.

The 150th Anniversary Commemorative Coin pictures that original pumper.

A fire on Water Street in June of 1873 was the catalyst for organizing a volunteer fire department in Cambridge. At that time on what is now Turner Avenue, workers at Simmons Brothers foundry were coating castings when hot pitch tar overflowed from a kettle onto the fire below. Soon the entire building was on fire and a wind spread the fire throughout the area burning twenty-two buildings before it was extinguished.

Local citizens banded together to fight the inferno but were ill equipped to fight such a fire. Barnesville and Zanesville sent hand pumpers, a steam engine pumper, hose carts, ladder wagons, and over 150 men via train to assist in putting out the fire, which took three days. As a result of this, buildings were better constructed in the future and Cambridge Fire Department was organized as a volunteer department.

The original Relief pumper from 1873 has recently come back home to Cambridge.

Cisterns were built around town so an ample water supply would be available for their new Relief Steam-engine Pumper that cost $6500 and had to be pulled by hand. Four and a half minutes after water from the cistern was in the boiler, water would be pulsed from the hose. That was much better than the bucket brigade!

The original hose cart from 1873 can now be seen at the Cambridge Fire Department.

In 1873, the fire engine was housed at the Old Town Hall on Steubenville Avenue. Community men served as volunteers for over 60 years. T.W. Scott and S.M. Burgess were some of those fire department founders. In 1874, the city gave the fire department $500 for uniforms, which consisted of a cap and a badge.

Fourth Street School Fire happened in February 1898 with temperatures of 32 below zero.

In 1898, the fire department moved to the old Simmons Brothers Factory on Turner Avenue. When you imagine how tiring it would have been to pull the engine by hand to a fire, it was important that early automobiles and the streetcar were used to haul volunteers and equipment back to the station.

Since the men all had full-time jobs, they often had to go to work covered with smoke and dirt from the fires. In 1902, Branthoover & Johnson installed plumbing at the firehouse as well as a bathtub,

In 1910, the city decided that these men should get a little pay but only when they were fighting a fire. Rates at that time gave the Chief $3 a fire, and the volunteers received $2 a fire if water was needed or $1 a fire if no water was needed.

Progress was being made as in 1915, fire hydrants were installed around the city. A new motorized, chain driven fire truck was then purchased. That original Relief Steam-engine Pumper and Hose Cart have now been returned from a Cleveland Museum and are kept at the Cambridge Fire Department.

In 1932, they moved into the Municipal Building where they stayed for over 40 years. By this time they had a new Seagrave pumper that could spray 600 gallons a minute.

Harry Siegfried is pictured on a 1928 Seagrave fire engine just outside the firehouse.

Harry Siegfried, a nozzleman, was one of those long-time volunteers along with several family members. Harry’s daughter, Bess, remembers going with her dad to the station when she was a child. “I polished those nozzles until you could see your face in them.”

Pictured are Chief Callihan and driver Walter Stage with a 1928 ladder truck.

Cambridge First Department became a fully paid fire department in 1946. Now someone was at the station 24 hours a day for a quicker response time. The first Fire Chief was H.C. Callihan, who served as a volunteer and chief for 62 ½ years.

Engines were parked in front of the Municipal Building in 1938.

Early in 1959, many will recall the disastrous fire at McMahon Gymnasium that destroyed the gym, industrial arts room, and band room at an estimated loss of $250,000. The cause was blamed on an overheated furnace. Nearby Central High School and St. Benedict Parochial School were saved due to the Cambridge Fire Department with assistance of fire departments from Byesville, New Concord, State Hospital, and Old Washington.

All available firemen were summoned in 1968 to a major fire at Variety Glass Company on the corner of Foster Avenue and North 2nd Street. Of high concern was the possible damage of glass molds – some from the Cambridge Glass Company. An estimated $300,000 in damage was partially covered by insurance, which was used to rebuild the facility.

Cambridge Scottish Rite Auditorium in flames in 1968.

Later in 1968, firemen were called to the Scottish Rite Auditorium where another disastrous fire was discovered on the third floor. Over a hundred firemen from seven area fire companies and many local citizens helped fight the blaze which caused destruction or damage to Scottish Rite Auditorium, Suitt Furniture Company, and the theater workshop.

In 1975, Cambridge Fire Department moved to its present home at 902 Gaston Avenue. Shortly after that move in July 1979 one of the most tragic area fires in recent times happened at Holiday Inn on Southgate Parkway where several died of smoke inhalation.

Members of the Cambridge Fire Department are pictured in this recent photo.

In more recent years, there have been several downtown fires where buildings have been destroyed. The Cambridge Fire Department always arrives quickly and keeps the fires from spreading to nearby buildings.

Chief Deeks heads the Cambridge Fire Department today.

Today the Cambridge First Department consists of 25 full-time personnel operating from one central station with Jeff Deeks serving as Chief. These dedicated men train continuously. They have two fire engines, a ladder truck, heavy rescue vehicle, water rescue, and two utility vehicles.

This fire engine is the latest at the Cambridge Fire Department. What a change 150 years has made!

They protect the citizens and property of the City of Cambridge and Cambridge Township. These firemen risk their lives for not only family and friends but complete strangers as well. Thanks for 150 years of service to our community!

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Cambridge, History, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Christmas in Dickens Victorian Village

November 14, 2023
Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit join in welcoming guests to Dickens Victorian Village.

Enjoy the spirit of a Victorian Christmas in Cambridge during the months of November and December. The main street is filled with Victorian scenes inspired by the book “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens.

Each year local dignitaries along with Queen Victoria participate in the ribbon cutting at the Opening Ceremony.

The official Opening Ceremony in 2023 was in downtown Cambridge on Saturday, November 4 with many exciting and interesting events. These included caroling by Cambridge Singers, the Akron Bagpipe Band, several storytellers, and many food carts just to give you a touch of what was happening. Of course, there was a ceremony at the Courthouse with local dignitaries followed by the 2023 Holiday Light Show. Then everyone moved to the Guernsey County Library for more entertainment and light refreshments. It’s an evening all those attending enjoyed. Similar events happen each year.

In its 18th season, the charm of jolly olde England can be felt right here in Cambridge. As you walk down Wheeling Avenue view 96 Victorian scenes with 169 characters that depict life at the time of Charles Dickens. Every scene has a brass plaque telling its connection to olde England and also lists the sponsor of that scene.

Father Christmas plays a big role in the festivities.

Father Christmas stands at the Courthouse Square along with Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit. Scrooge and Marley can be found near Theo’s Restaurant. Look for shopping and caroling scenes along with Queen Victoria, who reigned during the time of Charles Dickens.

Scrooge and Marley are shown in this Victorian scene based on “A Christmas Carol.”

Many of the scenes depict people in Victorian trades. The candlemaker, apple seller, sled maker, and coal miner are examples of ways that people made a living during those times. It’s a long walk from 6th Street to 11th Street but that is the best way to enjoy all the scenes that appear under each lamppost. Some scenes are in store windows so watch for them as you walk along.

Imagination Station gives opportunity to dress as a Victorian lady or gentleman.

While downtown, you’ll want to stop at the Dickens Welcome Center to learn more about the history of Dickens Victorian Village. There you can see how the heads are made for the characters as well as their inside skeleton. At the back of the center, dress Victorian yourself at Imagination Station where there is a wide variety of capes, hats, scarves, coats, and more to turn men, women, and children into Victorian figures. You might want to take a picture and use it on your Christmas card next year.

Historic trolley rides are narrated by local historian, Rick Booth.

Weekends are filled with special events. The Historic Trolley Tour has been a highlight for several years and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Rick Booth, local historian, narrates a memorable ride as the trolley goes from downtown all the way to the City Park. Locals will discover things they may never have known about their town. Find out why there were three bridges across Wheeling Avenue in the early 1800s and why they disappeared. Hear the importance of Col. Taylor in downtown Cambridge and the present day Col. Taylor Inn. You’ll be amazed at all the information Rick has discovered about Cambridge. The Trolley Tours in 2023 will happen on Saturdays Nov. 18, Dec. 2, and Dec. 9 from 10am-5pm.

Couples and friends enjoy having a traditional English tea at the Masonic Hall in this picture.

Three Victorian teas are held during the season. The Queen’s Tea will be held on Nov. 18 at the Cambridge Country Club with Queen Victoria telling the story of her life between courses of the meal. Two Victorian teas will take place at the Masonic Lodge Temple on Dec. 2 and Dec. 16. Join in the fun and wear your favorite hat or Victorian attire while sipping English tea and listening to some local entertainment. Reservations are required for the teas.

Each year, a group of local actors participate in the Cemetery Tours making history come alive.

The “Coming Alive Cemetery Tour” took place in the Old City Cemetery behind the Senior Center in 2023. The six living characters portrayed all had veteran related stories this year from the War of 1812 to WWI with the Civil War in between. Cost for the popular tour, which happens each year with a different theme, is $5 per person and can be paid at the gate.

The local library also honors Charles Dickens with a Marathon Reading.

The tradition of the Dickens Marathon Reading will continue at the Main Branch of the Guernsey County Library with the library sponsoring this event. Listen as local fans of Dickens read “A Christmas Carol” and perhaps some other Christmas works of Charles Dickens. Each person will read a 15 minute segment while visitors are encouraged to listen to parts of this well-known tale. It’s a great chance to get out of the cold and relax in the warmth of the library. What better place to read a classic novel?

Join a Christmas Candlelight Walk to hear stories of the VIctorian scenes downtown.

A Christmas Candlelight Walk will fill you with the holiday spirit as you walk downtown through the scenes. A tour guide will tell you stories about the scenes, and lead you in some Christmas carols. The tour begins at The Welcome Center at 6:00 on December 16. Here you can pick up a candle for the tour if you didn’t bring a candle or lantern from home. Admission is free for this event.

Many enjoy the thrill of an old-fashioned carriage ride through the downtown area. (Photo by Calvin Chester)

Everyone enjoys the thrill of riding in a carriage pulled by a beautiful horse through the streets of town. The ride begins on W. 8th Street beside the courthouse and tickets can be purchased there. On the weekends, check the Dickens Victorian Village Facebook page to see if the Horse and Carriage rides are going to happen. It all depends on the weather.

A special feature of the evening is the Holiday Light Show which gets bigger and better each year.

Every evening people gather at the Guernsey County Courthouse to watch the Holiday Lights created by AVC Communications. Watch and listen as the courthouse comes alive with the sights and sounds of Christmas. Over 66,000 lights pulsate in time to familiar Christmas songs. You’ll probably be singing along.

Music and scenes, from children’s favorites to classics and modern, entertain with different displays for an entire hour. The shows begin at 5:30 each evening and continue until 9:00, longer on holidays. There are benches on the lawn where you can comfortably sit to watch the lights or perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to find a parking spot close by to watch from your car. This Holiday Light show has become a holiday tradition with many families.

Scenes such as these can be found for five blocks in downtown Cambridge. Snow adds to the holiday spirit.

For more information, visit http://www.DickensVictorianVillage.com or check out their Facebook page. There’s so much to see and do that it is difficult to list everything. Come celebrate the 18th season of Dickens Victorian Village and get in the holiday spirit!

In the words of Charles Dickens, “Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts.” That’s still good advice today.

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Cambridge, Christmas, Family Fun, Festivals, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Ohio State School for the Blind

November 2, 2023

Ohio State School for the Blind was established in 1937.

The Ohio State School for the Blind is the first public school for the education of blind and visually impaired students in the United States. Many parents of blind children move to Columbus so they can be close to the school’s activities. One parent I met recently said, “We moved to Columbus for the academic excellence of OSSB and the marching band program. We were looking for a school that would incorporate music daily while focusing on academics.”

The staff at OSSB sets the bar high for all students matching the student’s level of ability to ensure that there is a focus on braille instruction, with an emphasis on life skills, all while holding the students to a high academic and personal responsibility level. “So far, OSSB has met and exceeded our expectations.”

Their daughter, Nadiya, is 14 years old, fully blind, and in the eighth grade. She is an accomplished musician and plays several musical instruments. Participating in the school’s Marching Band is something she enjoys.

Nadiya’s family gives her many new experiences where she learns by using her sense of touch and hearing.

The family also enjoys exploring the area and have been to Dickens Victorian Village, where Nadiya touched and learned about each display. That trip took about three hours. They also have enjoyed the Nutcrackers in Steubenville and displays at Gettysburg. Nadiya loves to learn and does so by touching and listening.

In 1837, the Ohio government established the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Blind. This institution was the predecessor of the Ohio State School for the Blind. Today more than 120 Ohio blind and visually impaired students receive their education each year at OSSB. 49% are female while 51% are male and are of many races and ethnicities.

On her 13th birthday, she was given a special bass guitar. She is surrounded by the other instruments she plays.

Education happens both inside and outside the classroom. Students have a full day of learning during daily classes, which use the Expanded Core Curriculum for a whole student approach. After school, there are many extra-curricular activities. For those who live on campus, a residential program provides enrichment opportunities. All this helps students grow socially and emotionally.

Participation in athletics plays an important role in the development of the students. They compete against other schools with visually impaired students in a sixteen-state conference. They compete in basketball, cheerleading, forensics, goalball, swimming, wrestling, and track.

Recently, Nadyia decided to play goal ball where the team tries to throw a ball with bells embedded inside into the opponent’s goal using ear-hand coordination. She is excited to go to St. Louis to a goal ball tournament with the school’s team. Another great learning experience.

Music is an important part of the education at OSSB. All students K-8 take music classes. They offer many performing groups, including Junior High Band and Choir, High School Choir, Strings, and their famous Blind Marching Band. Students learn to read music through Braille as well as learn to play by ear.

Nadiya is proud to be part of the Best Blind Band in the Land at Ohio School for the Blind.

Nadiya plays clarinet in the Marching Band but also plays piano, bass, and drums. Her parents said, “When Nadiya is playing her instruments – there is no disability. She is just a musician playing like everyone else.”

In 2005, the Ohio State School for the Blind marching band was formed to provide music and halftime shows for the Ohio School for the Deaf football program. They are the only blind marching band in the country! It is often called The Best Blind Band in the Land. Currently, it is directed by Yolanda Johnson.

This Marching Panthers Blind Band performs throughout the area for many festivals and parades.

This past fall, the Marching Band, consisting of students from grades 7-12, marched in the Sweet Corn Festival in Millersport, Circleville Pumpkin Show, Barnesville Fall Festival, and the Marion Popcorn Festival. Last summer, the Marching Band performed at Fenway Park in Boston and marched in the International Parade of Nations.

OSSB has multiple summer camp opportunities for blind or visually impaired students K -12 who live in Ohio. All camps are residential camps with campers arriving the Sunday before camp. A couple of camps available in June include Superhero Camp (Grades 1-3) and Advanced Cooking Camp (Grades 11-12).

If you would like more information on Ohio School for the Blind at 5220 North High Street, Columbus, visit their website at www.ossb.gov.oh.

Blindness is a physical disparity, but it is not an obstacle in the way of fulfilling dreams.

~Helen Keller

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Festivals, History, Music, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Texas Longhorns Give Taste of Old West

October 21, 2023

This billboard along I-70 reminds travelers of the Longhorn Cattle Ranch nearby.

Texas Longhorn Cattle can be found at Dickinson Cattle Company just north of Barnesville only a couple of miles off I-70 at one of the largest cattle breeding ranches in the United States. Today consumers desire leaner beef, which makes Texas Longhorns a good choice.

Darol and Linda Dickinson had their first ranch in Colorado over 50 years ago. They have always had a serious dedication to profitability, value breeding, and competing. In 1980, their bull named “Impressive” sold for $60,000, a record at that time. They have shipped cattle via “Air Mail” all over the world in specially made cattle crates.

Cattle rest in the shade along the gravel road leading through the ranch and to the store.

Winters were cold in Colorado and Darol was looking for another place for his ranch. In 1993 while driving on I-70 through the eastern part of Ohio, he saw some reclaimed strip-mine land that would make great pasture. He could picture his colorful Texas Longhorns grazing on these hillsides like a scene from the Old West. He’ll tell you today, “Ohio has the greatest ranch land country in the world.”

The Dickinson family consists of founders Darol, the General Manager, and Linda plus their four children. Joel (president) is herd manager and lives on the ranch. Kirk (treasurer) works there, keeps their website up to date, and lives close by. Chad (vice-president) lives in Texas where he is a contractor so he built the house and store at the ranch and also does marketing. Their only daughter Dela (secretary) lives back in Colorado and handles Longhorn events for them there. Dickinson Cattle Co. is owned and operated by this Christian family.

The cattle are peacefully grazing and resting to welcome you to the Dickinson Cattle Ranch.

Driving into the ranch on a gravel road gives one a feeling of traveling back to the Old West. Humorous signs along the way signify that the owners have a sense of humor. Examples are “Do not brake for coyotes” or “Hopalong Cassidy rode here.” The sign on the door of their store says “Vegan Rehab Center.”

Flair Galore relaxes in front of the Longhorn Head to Tail Store.

That strip-mine land has been developed to now include up to 1600 head of cattle in 43 separate, fenced pastures on 5,000 acres. However, there’s more to Dickinson Cattle Co. than just the cattle. First stop should be their Longhorn Head to Tail store.

Granddaughter Kara tells the story of the beautiful door made in New Mexico years ago.

A door from their Colorado home now serves as the entrance to their store. Darol had gone to a friend’s ranch and saw John Wayne going through a beautiful door into the office. Shortly thereafter, Darol had an identical door built by Taso Wood Works in New Mexico for the door of his home.

Inside their store, you’ll find hides, horns, skulls, and everything Longhorn from jewelry to tee shirts.

Longhorn Head to Tail is not a typical Appalachian shop but a unique Western Horn Emporium. The timber in the store including walls and jewelry case came from lumber on the farm when trees were cut during fence building. Watch a video about the ranch and its herd sires. Then browse the store to see soft-tanned hides, Longhorn skulls and horns from real Texas Longhorn steers grown on the ranch., and many interesting items made from the hides and horns including jewelry, which is hand-made there. It’s like a museum! Perhaps the most important thing there is their frozen beef section.

Longhorn Head to Tail Store is the perfect place to get natural beef products that are frozen.

Their Longhorn grass-fed, lean beef raised right there on the ranch can be purchased in the form of steaks, roasts, ground beef, jerky, and more. This meat is inspected and they try to keep it as natural as possible with no steroids, hormones, or implants added. A sign by the meat freezer says ”Antibiotics – Get them from your Doctor not your beef.” They even have beef pet food for your special pets at home. All natural beef halves are available upon request. The store is open throughout the year from 10-5 except on Sundays.

Bus Tours give a chance for guests to go out in the pasture for a close-up view of the Texas Longhorns.

You might want to take a Longhorn Head to Tail Bus Tour from April through October and see their breeding stock and herd sires. The tour takes about 75 minutes and includes close-up viewing of the cattle. The rugged ranch bus bounces across rough Appalachian pastures so guests can get a close-up view of where the cattle roam. Purchase special cow-candy to feed the animals. These tours are available for groups of 10 or more paying age guests by appointment. If you have a small group give them a call for possible times they might join a booked group.

This Longhorn cow, Jester, enjoys the green pasture with her new calf.

The main business at Dickinson Cattle Co. is breeding and developing a superior quality of registered cattle. When the nearly 400 calves are born in the spring, they only keep ten that may be used in their private herd someday. Dutch BueLingo Cattle and African Watusi Cattle can also be found on their ranch. They have five cowboys to assist with herd management.

Time Line is one of those special Texas Longhorn bulls that has been a herd sire on the ranch.

Choice of a bull is of utmost importance. The ranch usually has ten main herd sires. They try to select bulls that have perfect form and are of varied colors. Solid color bulls and calves are not as popular in the Longhorn community. Dickinson Cattle Co. has had many champion bulls including Texas Champions as well as World Champions. If you don’t want to purchase a bull, perhaps contacting them about semen might be a way to get started.

Joel, Darol, and Linda are pictured with their Queen of Kings Champion.

While many are very cautious around the Longhorn cattle because of their long horns, which can be up to eight feet from tip to tip, they are really very gentle and every bull can be led with a halter. Children often enjoy riding them and they even pull large loads.

Call 740-758-5050 for more information or visit their website at www.longhorntours.com. Take a drive back to the days of the Old West and visit Dickinson Cattle Co. on a bus tour from April to October before stopping for some tasty lean beef at their Longhorn Head to Tail Store, which is open all year except on Sundays. Don’t forget your camera!

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Farming, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Fall Fun at Tipple’s Country Pumpkin Patch

October 13, 2023
Venture inside the cornstalk teepees for a fall picture.

Pick a pumpkin! Get lost in a corn maze! Take a wagon ride! These are all things you can enjoy when visiting Tipple’s Country Pumpkin Patch on Simmons Road just a few miles north of Cambridge toward Indian Camp. They decided to call it Country Pumpkin Patch since Simmons Road is a scenic, country road.

Vonda and Ted Tipple started the Country Pumpkin Patch in 2001 on their farm.

It all began 22 years ago when Ted and Vonda Tipple decided to grow some pumpkins. In prior years, they had purchased pumpkins just down the road from Ned Thomas before he retired from the business. They built their pumpkin farm from the ground up. That first year, they placed a wagon loaded with pumpkins in their front yard with a can to place money in if someone wanted a pumpkin. It worked!

Now her son, Josh, Jess and the grandkids have been helping for several years, But Ted and Vonda still are responsible for most of the Country Pumpkin Patch.

The whole family from adults to children plant the pumpkins by hand in the spring.

The grandchildren help them with the patch from planting to harvest. They also give them ideas of what children might like. It’s a great experience for them to learn how to run a business, handle cash and make change.

Picking out a favorite pumpkin isn’t always easy but something fun for the children.

They decided to expand the pumpkin patch to a place where kids could have fun as well as pick out their favorite pumpkin. Each year they add more activities that children and adults will enjoy.

You’ll find a great selection of mums to make your home have a touch of fall.

There is no admission charge if you are just stopping by for a pumpkin or some of their other fall decorations. Prices for the pumpkins range from $.50 to $20.00 depending on their size. Mums, Indian corn, corn stocks, straw bales, and gourds are also available. 25 different varieties of pumpkins and gourds can be found here.

There’s also a nice selection of gourds, cornstalks, and bales of hay.

If you want to enjoy all the activities, there is a $5 admission charge per person – those under 2 are free. This includes a wagon ride, corn maze, crackers to feed the animals, and all the games they want to play.

They opened just a little later this year as they had to replant the pumpkins four times due to weather conditions. They are lucky to have lots of help dropping the seeds in the ground.

You might want to start your day at Tipple’s Country Pumpkin Patch by taking a covered wagon ride around the entire area to see what is being offered. The tractor is driven by Josh and the wagon is quite comfortable with padded seats.

A box filled with shelled corn gives many opportunities for play.

The corn maze, which is five acres in size, is always a popular event at the pumpkin patch. Most people enjoy getting lost…at least for a while. A box filled with shelled corn provides a great place for children to use their imagination.

Children enjoy feeding tame goats, chickens, and sheep.

Their petting zoo includes goats, chickens, sheep, and horses. Children enjoy feeding crackers to the animals and being able to get up close to pet them since the animals are very tame.

For those under 3, there is a small bounce house they are sure to enjoy. There’s also a nice play area with toys to ride and places to explore.

A nice play area gives children a chance to run some of their extra energy off.

There are many games scattered throughout the Pumpkin Patch area for everyone to enjoy. There is a Duck Race with water jets, a basketball gravity wagon to practice your shots, a new slide, and a Tire Bridge for kids to climb on and over.

Wagon rides are fun for the entire family.

Several area pre-schools have been frequent visitors to the Pumpkin Patch. They come for a wagon ride and go home with a small pumpkin. It’s a chance to show children how the pumpkins are grown and let them see the animals up close for an educational experience.

Groups enjoy roasting hot dogs over a campfire or making smores.

A special treat on Friday or Saturday nights can be arranged for groups with reservations. Many 4-H and Scout troops enjoy this adventure. This is a Nighttime Walk through the corn maze with flashlights, take a wagon ride, roast a hot dog at the campfire, and build your own smores. All this fun for $5 per person! Make reservations by calling Vonda at 740-432-3263.

Children get a chance to see how pumpkins are grown.

The Guernsey County Library will sponsor an event at the Country Pumpkin Patch on October 16th from 5-7 pm. The library staff will be on hand to supervise the event. Up to 150 kids will receive a free small pumpkin, and the library will have painting supplies available for them to paint a face on their pumpkin. While there, they can enjoy the play area.

As you can imagine, this is not a job for just six weeks of the year. All year long plans are being made and items are constructed and painted. Fields must be prepared, planted, and weeded. A Pumpkin Patch requires dedicated work month after month.

This sign lets you know you have arrived at Tipple’s Pumpkin Patch.

Tipple’s Country Pumpkin Patch is open daily the entire month of October from 12-7 just a few miles from Cambridge in the country at 6176 Simmons Rd. For the convenience of the customers, purchases can be made with cash or credit card.

“We want to give everyone a personal experience at a small but friendly Pumpkin Patch.” They love what they do!

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Back Roads, Cambridge, Family Fun, Just for Fun, Ohio

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Homegrown Produce at Ebbert Farm Market

September 17, 2023

Fresh isn’t fresh unless it’s from Ebbert Farm Market

Ebbert Farm Market is a third generation family farm.

For 105 years, the Ebbert family, now in its third generation, has been selling its own produce for part of the year at Ebbert Farm Market. They’re not open when there is nothing to harvest. You’ll meet the friendly owners, Jerry and Lova Ebbert as well as their family when stopping here.

Jerry and Lova Ebbert are currently managing the farm and the market place.

Jerry and Lova met when they were attending Ohio State University majoring in agriculture. They both grew up on farms and have learned to love life on the farm. Watching crops grow gives them satisfaction so they came back in 1992 to manage Ebbert Farm Market.

A tractor greets you at the top of the hill as you arrive at Ebbert Farm Market.

It’s a family-friendly place that welcomes you to the Ohio Valley with a store that is well-organized so easy to find what you are looking for. Their local produce is fresh and flavorful and there is quite a variety. The Ebberts enjoy the people who stop by to buy produce, visit, and tell encouraging stories of their lives. People are the best part for Jerry and Lova.

Tomatoes are an important crop from over 2,000 plants.

They specialize in producing fresh-picked sweet corn, vine-ripened tomatoes, plump tender green beans, cucumbers, melons, and pumpkins. Tomatoes are an abundant crop as they hand plant over 2,000 tomato plants each year.

Corn is picked fresh every morning rain or shine.

Sweet corn comes from approximately 25 acres of corn which is planted in rotation so something is fresh every week to pick all season long. There are over 100 fields of corn, which are picked every morning rain or shine. They have been known to get stuck in the fields after a heavy rain but they are determined to have fresh corn available.

Five acres of pumpkins are planted each year. They produce over 50 pick-up truckloads, which are all sold at the Ebbert Farm Market in September and October.

Strip farming is used when planting corn in over 100 fields.

When they say their produce is homegrown, they mean that it was planted, grown, and harvested on their farm by their family and a few part-time workers. They also carry fresh fruits and vegetables that are grown locally.

Everyone enjoys getting something from Walnut Creek when they don’t have time for a drive to Amish country. So the Ebberts have a nice stock of Amish jams, jellies, candies, and other goodies to complete their country atmosphere.

Fall is a favorite time to find pumpkins, corn stalks, and more.

The approaching fall season is a special time to sell their pumpkins and have fun activities for the kids. Every year during October, approximately 1000 students get to see “life down on the farm” during Agri-Days. During this season they have thousands of pumpkins, corn stalks, straw, gourds, and beautiful hardy mums. Sweet apple cider with no preservatives is also a special treat.

This was Ebbert’s original produce stand.

The Ebbert Family was named Family of the Year by the Soil & Water Conservation because of their efforts to conserve and preserve nature’s soil and water supplies. They use nature’s natural defenses against pests and diseases but once in a while have to resort to spraying. Lova said, “We would never put anything on our crops that would harm our children.”

Their farm is not strictly organic but as close as they can get. Crop rotation and contour plowing are very important as they always let the land rest for a year between plantings.

While people have been coming here for fresh produce for over a century, Ebberts have recently added a new venue, The Market at Ebbert Farms. Here you can hold a wedding reception, holiday party, bridal or baby shower, or family gathering.

The Market is Ohio Valley’s newest venue for wedding receptions and parties.

The event center is managed by Andy and Erica Barricklow, who are both Barnesville natives. Both of them graduated from Ohio State University and Erica is also a dentist in St. Clairsville. Andy has always had a passion for music and had his first DJ job at the age of thirteen. Since then, he has developed the business “Sound of Promise” which will make The Market a perfect spot for weddings and family events.

Visit Ebbert Farm Market just off old Route 40 at 68101 Ebbert North Rd in Saint Clairsville between I-70 Exits 218 and 220. Call 740-695-5619 if you want a large order or have any questions. They are open from about the middle of July until the end of October. Hours vary according to the season so call ahead.

Their market place is a popular spot for fresh produce.

You’re sure to come home with delicious fresh food that will delight your family and yourself. The Ebbert family adds the special touch of caring for their customers, who return again and again. Many return to just tell them a special story. Good treatment and good food create repeat customers.

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Farming, Ohio

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Elk’s Eye Endeavors Creates New Art Market

August 30, 2023
The Elk’s Eye Art Market has a new home in the old Elk’s building in Zanesville.

Carol Bridwell and her daughters wanted to provide a place for Muskingum County and all Southeastern Ohio artists and artisans to display and sell their creations. Carol began looking for the right place for this venture several years ago and knew she wanted an old building as she especially likes those from the early 1900s.

The original Elks building in 1913 was quite elaborate for its time.

While she checked out several buildings, her interest was piqued when she saw an ad for the Old Elks building in Zanesville being sold at auction. This building was erected in 1913 so fit the type of building she was looking for. Some thought it should be torn down for a parking lot. Although Carol did not see inside the building, she did in fact purchase it at auction in July 2021. “I was taking a chance.” Then the work began!

Since that time, the family has worked long hours to lovingly revitalize it and make it the new home for The Elk’s Eye Art Market at 22 S. 4th Street. That name was chosen because, in the Indian language of the Lenape, the Muskingum River (mus weshkinkw) is translated traditionally as “Elk’s Eye.”

Everything of value had been sold from the building by the Elks in a 2010 auction. That included kitchen equipment, all the furniture in the building, chandeliers, and even stained glass windows.

First things that needed attention were the bricks on parts of the outside of the building, which required the help of a mason. There was no electricity, water, or heat in the building so those issues all had to be solved.

Carol and her two daughters turned their dream into reality. Pictured are Stephanie, Carol, and Alicia.

Carol and her daughters are list makers so had page after page filled with the sheer volume of what needed to be done. But when Carol starts any project, she is determined to give her best all the way to the finish. Her great organizational skills make this possible.

Falling plaster made it necessary to replace all the ceiling tiles as well as new lights.

New electrical wiring had to be installed along with a new breaker box and light switches. Every light in the place is new. New water lines and a new furnace required outside help.

While renovating the building, Carol and her family have made many interesting discoveries hidden within including a dedication book from 1913, certificates from local names of note, and contracts. There was even a book with costs of building the 1913 Elks Lodge.

This interesting Elks ledger shows some of the early costs back in the beginning.

When peeling back from the walls layer after layer of paneling, paint, and furring strips, they found walls with beautiful hand detailing in what will be the center room on the main floor. Unfortunately, the design could not be saved; however, Carol did take pictures and is hoping to restore that pattern in the future.

The building is very well structured with walls three bricks thick and every floor is constructed of thick concrete and steel beams. It includes a basement, two floors, and a roof which was said to have been a Beer Garden used for parties during the prohibition era.

A beautiful fireplace displays original locally produced Weller tile.

Beautiful brick is now exposed as well as awesome tile and hardwood floors. Multiple fireplaces are adorned with locally produced Weller tile, which adds a lovely, historic touch.

Floors were uncovered, sanded, and give a shiny new coat while walls were all repainted.

Carol has never required much sleep as her mind is always busy with new ideas. First thing in the morning she takes a mile walk with her dog, Clyde. After that, she heads downtown Zanesville to work on another task on her list.

Her friendly dog Clyde also serves as a model for some of the wooden animal silhouettes she makes.

The family with the help of talented friends works almost daily and full force on the weekends to make this a great art venue in downtown Zanesville. Weekends are filled with a little bit of art, a little bit of architecture, a whole lot of Zanesville history, and dreaming of what could be.

Carol Bridwell displays her woven rugs and her wooden silhouettes and signs at the Salt Fork Festival.

Elk’s Eye Art Market is the first venture of Elk’s Eye Endeavors, LLC. The market is the brainchild of Carol Bridwell and her two daughters, Stephanie Bridwell and Alicia Snider. They have all been involved in the local art community for the last six years and want to bring new opportunities to the artist community.

Maddy Fraioli, well-known for her Floriware designs, now produces pottery at their farm in Roseville.

While working at festivals throughout the area, Carol realized that artists needed another place to display their creations throughout the year instead of just a few days here and there. She said, “If artists don’t have a place to display their work, they miss out on opportunities to sell.”

Carol admires Steve Shackelford’s photo of Redbud on canvas.

Many local artists, sixteen so far in June, will be displaying their media in this retail showcase. Some of those include Maddy Fraioli, Carol Bridwell, Marilyn Knell, Myron Knell, Kathy German, and John Taylor-Lehman. Watch their Facebook page @ Elks Eye Endeavors as new artists are added. Carol wants, “ A place with a variety of kinds of art where everyone feels comfortable coming in to view the art and visit.”

John Taylor-Lehman designed this cat using beer bottle caps.

Carol wanted to have a place that was accessible with regular hours. Therefore, the Elk’s Eye Art Market will be open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10-6. While Muskingum County art will be featured, all artists from Southeastern Ohio are welcome to display their works. The only fee artists pay is a commission when they sell a piece. If you have any questions or would like to display and sell your art, email elkseyezville@gmail.com.

Jon Shaeffer uses old chains from the farm to create this striking eagle.

It turns out that Carol’s family had an experience in this same building several years ago when Carol and her husband were celebrating their 25th anniversary. At that time, the family had a reception for them in the basement of the Elks Lodge. No wonder she was attracted to the building.

The old structure has been revitalized inside and out in the hopes of bringing new opportunities to the area art community. Stop by Elk’s Eye Art Market at 22 S. 4th Street in Zanesville and see the beauty of the building as well as the great selection of local artwork.

“Art will have a home at The Elk’s Eye Art Market that will appeal to both men and women.”

Category:

Art, History, Ohio, Uncategorized, Zanesville

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Hershberger Petting Zoo

August 18, 2023

The Petting Zoo is just one part of the Hershberger Farm & Bakery complex.

Petting and feeding animals are things that most children enjoy. A trip to Hershberger Petting Zoo, located between Berlin and Millersburg in Amish Country, makes this possible in a friendly setting. An indoor barn holds many of the animals in pens for easy access but not too close for small children who might be a little afraid of petting these animals.

Mini-donkeys were located near King Buck for size comparison.

The pens hold pigs, chickens, geese, llamas, alpacas, and calves. There are also some free-roaming animals under cover like peacocks, rabbits, goats, and more. Pick up a rabbit and feel its soft hair or cuddle a piglet. If the child falls in love with a rabbit, you can even purchase one to take home with you.

Baby Piglets are always an attraction.

One mother told me, “My daughters get to pet and feed animals, we get to see them smile. The produce and fry pies are amazing also!”

Mother goat is very protective of her triplets.

Maybe you might even get lucky and a baby goat will let you pick it up. Baby animals are always favorites of children and adults. Often you will find animals that have wandered away from their cages. One small goat decided that my slacks would be a good snack but did no damage. That reminded me of an old song that I learned when beginning to play the piano.

Bill Grogan’s goat was feeling fine

Ate three red shirts right off the line.

Hershy’s King Buck is the largest horse every raised on their farm.

Children and adults will also like seeing and petting Hershy’s King Buck, a massive, registered Belgian horse – the biggest horse ever raised on their farm. He was born in September of 2021 and weighs 3,126 pounds. Feed King Buck a carrot to make him happy. He is amazing!

Their aviary holds a special attraction for those who enjoy close contact with the birds.

A large screened-in area contains an aviary, which holds many local and colorful birds with a variety of places for them to rest. Outside pens where the animals have more room to roam contain llamas, calves, ponies, and even longhorn cattle.

A large horse carousel entertained youngsters with a ride on a large draft horse.

There’s a live carousel inside where children can have a draft horse ride. This is not on King Buck but on some of the other beautiful, large horses at the farm. There are additional charges for the horse and buggy rides.

Buggy rides took visitors on a tour of the farm.

Take a relaxing ride in an Amish buggy while visiting. Kids and adults both enjoy the buggy rides, with stories by an Amish driver, that take you around the Hershberger Farm to see the animals out in pasture.

Goats like to climb on benches, platforms, and even the roof of the barn.

This is a family day that everyone is certain to remember. Don’t wear your Sunday best clothes even if you watch your step. Picking up the small animals is likely to get a little dirt on your clothing.

This young boy spent a lot of time feeding and petting the small goat.

Entry fee for the Petting Zoo is $5 per person. Kids 3 and under are admitted free. Take along some one-dollar bills or quarters so you can purchase whole carrots or sliced-up carrots to feed the animals. It’s always fun to have them eating out of your hand!

Most, especially moms, like to visit the Farm Store while they are there.

Before leaving, moms especially will want to visit the Farm Store or the on-site bakery where they can pick up some delicious cream sticks to eat in the shade or take home. Some think the bakery alone is a good reason to visit. Cheese and kettle corn are also available. There’s a place to get ice cream or a fresh Angus hamburger. There’s plenty of outdoor seating here to relax and enjoy a snack.

Hershberger’s Petting Zoo at 5452 State Route 557, Millersburg is open from March 1 – December 24. During that time they are always open from 10 – 4. Closed on Sunday throughout the year. Amish Country is a very busy place so visit on a weekday if you can. This is a place your children will want to go back to again and again.

Category:

Back Roads, Family Fun, Nature, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Lisa Cunningham’s Express Your Purseonality

August 2, 2023

Lisa Cunningham enjoys displaying her creations at the Salt Fork Festival.

Little girls enjoy using their imagination by dressing up as different characters that they admire. Getting dressed as a princess is one that has sparked an interest in many young girls as Princess Days have become popular throughout the area.

Her purses were a popular item from the start, thus the name Express Your Purseonality.

Lisa Cunningham, a local lady from Cambridge, has created a business, “Express Your Purseonality,” that has many creative accessories for little girls to create their own look as a princess or a special young lady. All the items are personally made by Lisa so you can be certain you are getting something unique.

The name for her business was chosen because, at that time, purses were the most popular items. Lisa makes the purses with fringe on them and adds popular cartoon characters to the purse for little girls.

Her daughter Madison was the inspiration for little girls’ accessories and has been helping her at many craft shows over the years since Madison was four years old.

Decorative headbands add something special for a little girl to enjoy.

Lisa’s crafting began about 25 years ago or perhaps more. She was making creative headbands for little girls when she was a teenager. When she began working craft shows at churches and schools, those first crafts were painted ceramics and tabletop decorations. She enjoyed making unique items and talking to everyone.

At first, Lisa just enjoyed making and showing her various crafts but then got serious about having a second income to pay for Madison’s college tuition. “I wanted her to have the best head start in life she could get.” She is now a sophomore at Youngstown State University majoring in social work.

Lisa tells everyone that her daughter Madison inspires her to no end.

Lisa’s full-time job is at St. Benedict School, where she is a K-5 computer teacher, technology coordinator, and auxiliary clerk. She also works as a teacher at the Cambridge afterschool program.

While she’s a busy woman, she still finds time to go to Youngstown State University to watch her daughter perform with her hip-hop dance team. Dancing is something mother and daughter have done together from jazz and hip-hop to ballet and have performed at many recitals together over the years. While at home, Lisa enjoys relaxing with her husband, Shane, and their four dogs and one cat.

A wide assortment of tutus are available in sizes from newborn to 10/12.

She also has two stepchildren, Emily and Winona. Emily had her first baby girl so now they are grandparents. Sounds like another little girl who is going to become a princess. She probably already has a tutu.

This close-up shows the detail in a tutu set made by Lisa.

Tutus are a popular item with young ladies. She makes them in sizes ranging from newborn to age 10/12. Some of these take a lot of time to make depending on the size and how many different colors are needed for the tutu.

Her handmade bows add a sparkling touch to a little girl’s outfit.

You will also find headbands, hairbows, wands, crowns, beaded pens, princess dress-up aprons, necklaces, bracelets, stud earrings, and of course, purses. It’s possible to get a special order for a birthday gift and then have matching headbands and hairbows made.

These hand-painted wooden earrings are enjoyed by young ladies and adults.

Recently, she has expanded her line to include something for fashionable ladies. She makes engraved wooden handpainted ladies’ earrings, leather earrings, stud earrings, and acrylic earrings that are popular with ladies of all ages.

Little Princesses had a special treat on Princess Day – meeting Dickens’ Queen Victoria.

“Express Your Purseonality” can be found year-round at Country Bits in downtown Cambridge. During Princess Days, it is a busy spot since the booth is stocked with various accessories for the princess, and the town is filled with little girls wanting to dress in something pretty.

Lisa remembers coming to the Salt Fork Festival with her family and walking through all the artist displays, having lunch and listening to the entertainment. At that time, she never dreamed that she would have a booth there. Now, her booth at the Salt Fork Festival is filled with little girls looking at all the accessories. Lisa recalled, “I love seeing the smiles on their faces as they look around.” It’s also a great place for mothers and grandmothers to find a special gift for their little girl.

Lisa makes earrings for all season that the little girls will enjoy.

Her unique earrings have become a very popular item and she intends to expand them for little girls as well as adults. Lisa mentions her goal for the future, “I constantly try to come up with unique craft ideas you won’t see anywhere else.”

Lisa enjoyed having a booth at the Backwoods Festival.

If you have any questions for Lisa, you may email her at tazzy291@roadrunner.com or call her at 740-705 -1756. Visit her Facebook posts at Expressyourpersonality. She’ll ship items anywhere and uses Paypal for easy payment.

Let “Express Your Purseonality” be the device to engage your child’s imagination in a world of endless possibilities.

Category:

Art, Cambridge, Festivals, Ohio, Uncategorized

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Friends of the Library Love Book Sales

July 25, 2023

Mystery. Romance. Comedy. History. These are just a sampling of the kind of books you will find at a Friends of the Library Book Sale.

Their book sales have two purposes. First, you can stock up on books for your reading pleasure at a reasonable price. The last couple of years, the Friends have simply asked for a donation from books that have been selected. You can’t beat that! They also have delicious home-baked goods available for donation as well. There are some pretty tasty treats available from candy to cookies and even homemade bread.

Book Sales at Crossroads are held in this room where new window coverings, tables, and chairs were purchased from book sales.

The second purpose would be to provide special items for the library that they might not be able to purchase themselves. That has become an impressive list over the last few years.

During the early years of the group, which was founded in 2010, funding could only provide money for purchase of books from the best-seller list as well as the Newberry Award books. But as funding increased, so did the size of their projects.

New book bins were purchased for Cambridge Main and Byesville from Book Sales.

Colorful return book bins have been placed outside the Byesville and Main branches for easy return of books and videos. The logo on the bins was designed by local artist, Steve Lowe. The large meeting room has been enhanced with new window coverings and comfortable folding chairs.

They have contributed to the Summer Reading Programs for children at the library, and recently they purchased 15 wonder books with ready-to-read audiobooks inside, and 5 Launchpads for use in the Children’s Library. These Launchpads can also be borrowed from the library and contain learning aps, games, videos, and more for hours of fun. No Wi-Fi is needed.

A Discovery Backpack Program enables children to check out an exploration kit from the library. These include books, magnifying glass, headlamp, walking stick and more.

Stephanie Laube of United Way accepts a check for Dolly Parton Imagination Library from Friends representative, Mary Sikora-Skeslock after a book talk by young author, Gage Shepherd.

One of their favorite community-minded projects promotes the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Guernsey and Noble Counties with 887 children enrolled. The project began in 1995 in Dolly’s home county and was inspired by Dolly’s father who never learned to read or write. She wanted the children of their area to develop a love of reading.

This was the recent book mailed to youngsters during the month of January.

Here a child can receive a new book mailed to them each month from birth to the age of five. Pick up an application at any of the Guernsey County Libraries or go online to register at http://www.imaginationlibrary.com. Over 172 million books have been given away by the foundation as of December 2021. What a great way to promote reading.

An evening of folk music by Adam Miller was presented at the library.

Some of the early community projects the Friends sponsored were family movie nights at the library, guest speakers, and promotion of young authors. They encouraged sharing stories through musical or even dinner theater with a lovely catered meal at the library.

Jerry Thompson dressed as Father Christmas reads during the Dickens Marathon Reading.

Several years ago, Friends of the Library began a project with Dickens Victorian Village. Each season they schedule a day to have a Dickens Marathon Reading of Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol.” This has become a popular annual event with a new reader every 15 minutes throughout the day.

Chris Hart has performed several one-man shows at the library as well as at the end of the Steeple Walk as part of Dickens Victorian Village.

Another event involving Dickens, has been an annual presentation of a Christmas-themed tale told by Chris Hart. This traditionally is performed at the end of the Steeple Walk. Chris has a wide variety of Christmas based stories he uses for this occasion.

A paranormal program captured attention with presentations by Shone Winegartner and his daughter of Cumberland and Mark Jordan from Malabar Farms. Joan Albaugh introduced the speakers.

There are approximately 90 members of this organization. They organize the books prior to the sale, help customers during sale days, as well as provide delicious baked goods. If you would like to be a member, you can pick up a form at the libraries. Fee is $15 for individuals or $10 for seniors 60+. Fill out the form and leave it at the library.

Children’s books are a popular item and always go quickly.

Perhaps you have some books you would like to contribute to their Book Sales. Donations are only accepted on sale days during the sales. There’s always a need for cookbooks, craft, and quilting ideas.

Of course, there are always books left over at the end of the sales. Some are saved for future sales. Friends have registered with Operation Paperback for the military and will use this as an outlet to diminish their paperback supply and also give some reading pleasure to our military.

Michele Hatcher, Carol Marlyne, and Joan Albaugh prepare for another Friends Book Sale.

Plan now to attend the Friends of the Library Book Sales for year-round reading enjoyment. Everyone needs some good books at home ready for a relaxing evening. While there, pick up some of their delicious home-made treats. Remember, everything is by donation and there’s no limit on how many books you can take home with you.

“When I think of all the books still left for me to read, I am certain of further happiness.”

~Jules Renard

Category:

Cambridge, Christmas, Just for Fun, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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