Welcome to the Ross County Historical Society

Preserving the past, in the present, for the future...

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Learn how to safely repair historic gravestones. Training is in 2 months -- there are 9 open seats available. Call 74-772-1936 or email info @ rosscountyhistorical dot org.

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The Ross County Historical Society invites the public to an evening of music and history on Saturday, July 25 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Ross County Heritage Center, located at 45 W. Fifth St, featuring a special performance and lecture by music historians Steve and Lisa Ball.

Admission is free, and all are welcome.

The Music of the Original Carter Family explores the life, legacy, and recording career of the legendary Carter Family, whose influence helped shape what is now known as country music. Often considered part of the genre's "Big Bang," the Carter Family's

remarkable sixteen-year career left an enduring mark on American musical history.

Through live music, storytelling, and historical insight, Steve and Lisa Ball will trace the group's journey—from their formation and landmark audition at the famed Bristol Sessions to their rise to national prominence and the challenges that brought their career to an unexpected close at its peak.

The program also highlights the rich history behind many of the Carter Family's songs, several of which originated in the mid-19th century. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the music, the people behind it, and the lasting impact the Carter Family has had on generations of American musicians.

The program will be held at the Ross County Historical Society on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free, and everyone with an interest in music, history or Appalachian culture is encouraged to attend. L:ight refreshments will be served.

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What happens when history comes alive after dark? Families are invited to find out at the Ross County Historical Society's Evening at the Museum on Thursday, July 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Ross County Heritage Center, 45 W. Fifth Street.

Inspired by the excitement of exploring a museum after hours, this free family event transforms the Heritage Center into an interactive adventure. Visitors will enjoy hands-on activities, embark on a museum-wide scavenger hunt, and meet historical characters representing different eras of Ohio's rich past.

Designed especially for children and families, Evening at the Museum encourages young visitors to discover local history through exploration, games, and personal interactions that make the past feel vibrant and accessible.

Admission is free for everyone. Families are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance by calling 740-772-1936 or visiting the Ross County Historical Society's website.

Children who are members of the Ross County Historical Society's Junior Membership program will receive a special souvenir pin and a snack during the evening. Junior memberships are available for just $10 per year, making it an affordable way for young history enthusiasts to enjoy exclusive benefits while supporting the museum's educational mission.

For reservations or additional information, call 740-772-1936 or visit the Ross County Historical Society online.

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Get ready for our embers only VIP opening of our new exhibit!

Join us on Friday, July 10th from 6:30pm-8pm for an exclusive evening celebrating the opening of Local Roots, Global Routes, an all-new exhibition at the Ross County Heritage Center that explores the remarkable lives of Ross County's explorers, adventurers, and world travelers. Discover the extraordinary journeys of local men and women whose curiosity carried them across continents and around the globe during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Your VIP evening includes: - A special curator's presentation introducing the fascinating stories behind the exhibition - An exclusive first look at the exhibit before its public debut - A guided gallery tour with behind-the-scenes insights and conversation with museum interpreters - Light refreshments and an opportunity to mingle with fellow members

Dress the Part!

Guests are encouraged (but never required) to attend in Victorian or turn-of-the-century attire. Whether you arrive as an intrepid explorer, elegant traveler, pioneering naturalist, or fashionable tourist, period dress is a wonderful way to step into the world of Local Roots, Global Routes.

We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable evening celebrating the adventurous spirit of Ross County's past.

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We've got some great programs coming up this summer and a new way to purchase tickets online!

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C. Hartmeyer's City Bakery, 28 W. Water St., Chillicothe, Ohio. Circa 1910.

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We recently had our Annual Meeting, which gave us a chance to hand out some very well-deserved awards.

The First Capital Award winners included Globe Furniture (for their 120th anniversary exhibit) and Tea MaCualla for her Voices of Freedom program, which sees high school students interviewing veterans and recording their stories.

Students who received the William H. and Elizabeth Lynch Nolan Scholarship include Caitlyn Dyer, Emma Knisley, and Madelyn Smith.  

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chillicothe, oh by Andrew Livelsberger

Via Flickr:

Twitter | Visual Ohio Blog | Best Light Photo Blog         

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Step Back in Time This Saturday with RCHS!

Ever wondered what school was like long ago? Join us on Saturday, May 2 from 10 AM to 12 PM for a hands-on Junior Member Program exploring the history of schools in Ross County!

Kids ages 6–12 will:

Write on slates

Try old fashioned ink pens

Take on real assignments from the past

Discover what one-room schoolhouses were really like

It’s a fun, interactive way to experience history—not just learn it!

FREE event – no registration or membership required!

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Old Ross County Jail and fountain (2) by Gar_Mc

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chillicothe, oh by Andrew Livelsberger

Via Flickr:

Twitter | Visual Ohio Blog | Best Light Photo Blog         

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grandview cemetery, chillicothe, oh by Andrew Livelsberger

Via Flickr:

Twitter | Visual Ohio Blog | Best Light Photo Blog         

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The General Returns to Chillicothe!

Join us for a powerful living history performance by Dr. Curt Fields, the nation’s premier portrayer of President Ulysses S. Grant.

Through first-person storytelling drawn from Grant’s own words, Dr. Fields brings this pivotal American figure to life in a way that is both engaging and unforgettable. With appearances across 22 states and features on the Discovery Channel and National Geographic, this is a rare opportunity to experience history up close.

Event Details:

Thursday, April 23

6:30 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Ross County Heritage Center

45 W. Fifth Street, Chillicothe

Seating is limited, so we encourage you to arrive early. Light refreshments will be provided.

Don’t miss this chance to step into the past and encounter one of America’s most important leaders—brought vividly to life.

We hope to see you there!