Have you listened to the account of Hugh Grant’s venture into Central Ohio? It’s an entertaining 17-minute fictional story mixed with bits of actual history told by a professional storyteller. Go to www.swfchs.org and click on Audio under the Media heading.

The Ries Cabin was located about two miles north of Georgesville on Gardner Road. It was built in 1803, the same year Ohio became a state. At the time, it was one of the oldest buildings in Franklin County. Georgesville was settled in 1797, the same year as Franklinton.

The Harrisburg Town Hall was a popular medicine show destination in the early years. A large porch was used as a stage where shows were held. Millionaire Dr. Sam Hartman of Hamilton Township was one of the frequent visitors selling his cure-all Pe-Ru-Na offered nationwide. He was also a regular visitor in Grove City staying at the old hotel and saloon on Broadway.

This log house, once located near Grove City and Demorest roads, is mentioned at in an old newspaper as a stage coach stop. According to the article, the stage route ran from Washington Court House to Worthington.