Two local historic sites will be welcoming guests this weekend with special events.
Fall Open House at the Gill House
First, Saturday brings the Fall Open House at the Gill House, located at 342 Harding Way West. This landmark house, constructed in 1903 to the design of one of America’s great early 20th century architects, is the center for over two centuries of Galion history.
From 1 PM to 3 PM, the first floor of the house will be open free of charge (donations accepted). Visitors can view the ongoing restoration efforts in the 6,000 square foot house and learn about exciting plans for enhancing Galionites and visitors’ experience with local history.
A special feature will be a display of items related to Galion’s Freese Family, whose generosity continues to benefit the community through funds used for parks and other city projects. On display will be photos from a remarkable September 1920 transcontinental car trip across western Canada; diplomas and yearbooks of family members; early Galion scenes; and much more. Almost all of these items are one-of-a-kind.
Be sure to ask about family friends and house visitors Thomas Alva and Mina Edison, as well as Henry Ford and others.
Sunday at the Big Four Depot
On Sunday, join the Friends of the Big Four Depot as they welcome visitors to a remarkable survivor of Ohio railroading history. The Depot, which opened on December 27, 1900, served as a divisional railroad headquarters for the Big Four Railroad, later the New York Central. Over the years, US Presidential candidates and sitting US Presidents stopped here; a Major League Baseball team arrived here to play a game in Heise Park.
The building is currently being restored and renovated to serve a variety of uses. From 1PM to 4PM guests view displays on local railroad history and speak with Friends members.
The Big Four Depot is located at the corner of Harding Way East and North Washington Street, three blocks east of Galion’s Public Square.
