2018 Tour Book

Buckeye Lake Region Tour Book 2018 - 2019
Issue 24

FREE

WIBNUCTKEEYERLAFKEEST

ONE MORE REASON
TO COME TO THE LAKE!

SEE INSIDE FOR MORE
FUN THINGS TO DO ALL

YEAR LONG!

• Attractions
• Maps
• History
• Businesses
• Events

www.buckeyelakecc.com



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Welcome to our Little Slice of Paradise 1
Hello everyone, this is your Captain speaking
– welcome aboard! This year’s Buckeye Lake Re-
gion Chamber of Commerce Tour Book will take
you on an adventure cruise around the Buckeye
Lake Region. We know you’re going to enjoy it
here.
I am very proud to introduce you to the Buck-
eye Lake Region, not only with this great Tour
Book but also in person, if I get the chance. The
Chamber Board and staff have worked very hard
on presenting you the stories and the advertising contained within this book.
You will see information about local restaurants, marinas, shops and villages.
Please take the time to stop in and shop, eat, drink and drop a line in the water.
Do a little fishing, boating, skiing, kayaking and just generally have a great
time. Keep in mind as, our cover suggests, the Region is open all year long, so
also do some ice fishing, ice skating, ice sailing and whatever else the seasons
bring. We’re open for business – and fun – year-round and we hope you will be
visiting all year long.
All of us are very excited that you’re here – and that construction on
the new dam will be ending this year, 2018. That’s something to celebrate! It’s
been a long four years but now we’re looking forward to enjoying our great
Lake with great visitors, like you.
The Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce along with our
member business’s, the Buckeye Lake Civic Association, our village author-
ities, BLRC/2030, and State and County political representatives have all
worked together to protect this Region and our great asset, BUCKEYE LAKE.
It has truly been a labor of love for all of us. THANK YOU ALL.
So stop by to get a steak or a hamburger, enjoy some ice cream or an
Asian dinner or pizza, wet your whistle with a beer or a glass of wine or do
some shopping at a local antique store. And, while you’re here why not stay
awhile? See a local Realtor to buy a house or visit one of our excellent marinas
to purchase a new boat or equipment. We have it all!

We love it here and we know you will too.

Timothy L. Ryan
President
Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce.

2 Officers

President Vice President

Tim Ryan John Doneff


Secretary Treasurer
Lisa Stewart Brendan Underwood
--Trustees--

Andrea Dooley Tom Wolfe Mike Fornataro
(through 2018) (through 2018) (through 2019)

740-398-7205 or [email protected]

3

Table of Contents
President’s Page........................................................................................ 1
Table of Contents...................................................................................... 3
About the Chamber................................................................................... 4
Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog............................................................... 8
First Canal Boat Built in Hebron............................................................ 11
From Rails to Trails in The Buckeye Lake Region................................. 11
Weldon’s Ice Cream................................................................................ 12
Queen of the Lake................................................................................... 14
Village of Buckeye Lake......................................................................... 15
Greater Buckeye Lake museum.............................................................. 19
Village of Hebron.................................................................................... 20
Village of Thornport............................................................................... 25
Lake Facts............................................................................................... 27
Village of Thornville............................................................................... 29
Area Map................................................................................................ 32
Village of Millersport.............................................................................. 36
Buckeye Lake Brewery........................................................................... 39
Buckeye Lake Story................................................................................ 40
Bike Buckeye Lake................................................................................. 41
Buckeye Lake VFW................................................................................ 42
Thrivant and Jeff Ritter........................................................................... 42
Buckeye Lake Amusement Park............................................................. 43
Buckeye Lake Yacht Club....................................................................... 44
Buckeye Lake Library............................................................................. 45
Harbor Hills............................................................................................ 46
Route 79 Supercruise.............................................................................. 47
Buckeye Lake Winterfest........................................................................ 48
Dawes Arboretum................................................................................... 51
Backwoods Festival................................................................................ 53
The Wreck and Recovery of the Black Diamond................................... 53
Newark Industrial Park........................................................................... 55
The First Hotel at the Lake..................................................................... 55
Boater’s Guide to Buckeye Lake............................................................ 56
Buckeye Lake Region Members............................................................. 61
Event Calendar........................................................................................ 64

4 About the Chamber

The Buckeye Lake Region has a seen a metamorphosis of effort and enthusiasm

in development and entrepreneurship in the area. The Chamber’s goal is to promote a

business environment benefiting the Buckeye Lake Region. This happens through mem-

bership and networking.

The Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce is committed to the im-

provement of the communities it serves through volunteering time, efforts, and spon-

sorship to local causes. We offer many opportunities to be involved in the region and to

make your business more visible. We invite anyone interested in the betterment of the

Buckeye Lake Region to Join the Chamber. You can do this online by clicking the “Join

us” button at www.buckeyelakecc.com or by filling out the application found on page 6

and mailing along with your check to:



Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce

PO Box 5

Buckeye Lake, Ohio 43008

MEMBER BENEFITS:
• Expanded discounts and opportunities through the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance
• Your business listed in The Greater Buckeye Lake Region Tour Book.
• A listing on our website www.buckeyelakecc.com and link to your website.
• Opportunity to advertise in The Greater Buckeye Lake Region tour book
distributed throughout the area.
• Meetings providing opportunities to educate members about your business
and distribute business materials.
• Networking at Business After Hours events.
• Many reduced-cost benefits through alliances with other chambers.
• Opportunity to offer Business-to-Business discounts to increase awareness
and expand your customer base.
• Safety Council meeting with Licking County Chamber available to our members.
• Updates from local and state officials, business leaders and area civic asso
ciations, etc.

.

About the Chamber 5

Covering the Tri-County Area

Fairfield • Licking • Perry
Visit us at www.buckeyelakecc.com

“Mission, Vision and Purpose”
Anchors to Our Success

Mission: To stimulate area business by sharing ideas, information and
supporting our communities, as well as educating consumers
about services and products our members provide.

Vision: To create and support a thriving business environment
that provides a variety of services. This environment includes
retail, coordinating seminars and events, maintaining a
website that contains business-critical information.

Purpose: To strengthen area businesses through education and
fellowship.

Visit us at www.buckeyelakecc.com
740-398-7205

[email protected]

6 About the Chamber

The 2018-2019 Visitors Guide is a publication of the Buckeye Lake Region

Chamber of Commerce, the BLRCC cannot be held responsible for any errors or

changes that occur after printing.

For more information about the Chamber, membership or any other inquiries,

visit our web site at www.buckeyelakecc.com.

------------------------------------------------------

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

❒ Yes, I would like to join the Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce.

Enclose your check and mail to:

Buckeye Lake Region Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 5, Buckeye Lake, OH 43008

Business Name: _________________________________________________

Contact Person: _________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________

City/State/ZIP: __________________________________________________

Business Phone: _________________________________________________

Alternate Phone: _________________________________________________

E-mail Address: _________________________________________________

Website: _______________________________________________________

❒ Business or Professional Member $75.00

❒ Associate Member $75.00

❒ *Outside Area Business or Professional Member $145.00

❒ *Outside Area Associate Member $75.00

*Outside Area is deemed as being outside of Fairfield, Licking and Perry

Counties. Business Members shall be those persons engaged in any business

or professional activity. Associate Members shall be those persons interested

in the betterment of the Buckeye Lake area but who are not directly engaged in

any business or professional activity.

“ 7

“
PARK

NATIONAL BANK
PA R K N AT I O N A L B A N K . C O M

8 Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog
The Creation of Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog

An Ice Age relict and barges.
As the last glacier crossed Ohio, north- In 1830, a dike was completed and the
ern plants were forced south. The glacier
moved so slowly that a wide belt of Cana- reservoir filled, and two years later it was
dian forest was able to move along well in enlarged by 500 acres. The resulting lake
advance of the ice. By the time this mas- covered about 4,300 acres and the Lick-
sive ice sheet caught up to, pushed over ing- Summit Reservoir was born. Barg-
and buried the mature seed-producing es first used the route in 1831, six years
plants, their offspring farther south of the after ground breaking. Port towns such
glacier were producing seedlings on their as Thornport and Millersport sprung up
own. along the canal system during its construc-
tion. Horses and mules pulled the barges
By the time of European settlement, from the “tow paths” built along the sides
most of the Canadian vegetation had long of the canal. In fact, the sidewalk of the
since vanished from America. In a few North Bank of Buckeye Lake follows the
isolated sites however, environmental original tow path and is often referred to
conditions allowed individual species and as the “Old Tow Path”. Even today, canals
bogs to survive. exert great influence on transportation be-
cause eventually highways and railways
The Canal were often constructed along the aban-
Early settlers called the 4,000-acre doned canal routes.
swampy marsh in Licking County the The “Deep Cut” canal is the most dis-
“Big Swamp”and native Americans and cernible part of the Ohio and Erie Canal
settlers alike collected cranberries there. in Fairfield County, running from Bickel
By the early 1800s, the open waters of the Church Road to Buckeye Lake, approxi-
original glacier lake were 5 miles long, yet mately 4 miles in length. The Deep Cut is
only 400-500 feet wide because of vegeta- a very deep canal made specifically to get
tion which closed in the shoreline. the canal water in the Lake to flow toward
With the advent of the Ohio and Erie Baltimore, Canal Winchester, and on to
Canal, the construction of a large reservoir Circleville. This canal goes right through
was needed to lift canal passenger boats downtown Millersport.

Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog 9
The Creation of Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog

Buckeye Lake The Birth of Cranberry Bog
In May 1894 the Ohio General Assem- It was the impoundment of the Big
bly officially abandoned the reservoir as Swamp which made Cranberry Bog
a canal feeder and proclaimed it a public unique. As water backed up behind the
park. By 1900, the Ohio and Erie Canal dike the swamp was destroyed, except for
was finished as a commercial waterway. the youngest, most buoyant segment of the
Its name was changed to Buckeye Lake bog mat. A 50-acre upper segment of the
and recreational use of the lake grew as bog mat along the north shore expanded
transportation to the area improved. By like a giant sponge and rose 8 feet with the
the early 1900s, Buckeye Lake had be- new water level.
come a popular resort spot. No longer did the floating bog mat sur-
In 1949 Buckeye Lake was officially round the glacial lake, as is typically the
dedicated as Buckeye Lake State Park. In case with such bogs. Now the lake sur-
1968, it was dedicated as one of Ohio’s rounded the bog, making Cranberry Bog
first Natural Landmarks. In May 1973 the only known occurrence of its kind in
Cranberry Island was dedicated as a state the world.
nature preserve.

740.321.1080

10 Buckeye Lake & Cranberry Bog

The Bog Environment rounding environments.
A critical feature of a bog ecosystem Cranberry Bog’s Future
is a simple plant called sphagnum moss.
As it grows, sphagnum, upon which the When the island surfaced, it was about
entire bog community is based, releas- 50 acres in size. By 1910, 45 acres re-
es a staggering quantity of acid into the mained. By 1955, it was down to 23
water. This environment is too acidic for acres. In 1963, the island was less than
most plants, other than those adapted to 20 acres.
Today the island has dwindled to less
Unique plants populate Cranberry Bog than 11 acres. In all probability, Cran-
berry Bog will continue to shrink.
the bog community.
Sphagnum moss has an unusual cell Man, not nature, created the island.
Now man and nature are slowly destroy-
structure, enabling it to hold many times ing it. This little island is at the mercy of
its own weight in water. On hot days wake and ice action coming off a very
it acts as a sponge, evaporating large large, shallow lake.
quantities of water, cooling the surface
of the bog while maintaining a high hu- Trees and marsh vegetation have
midity, absolutely critical for many bog invaded the edges of the island where
species. This thick, spongy covering of bog acid has been sufficiently diluted
sphagnum moss also acts like a huge in- and oxygen is readily available. When
sulator, keeping root temperatures well trees are blown over, large clumps of
below air temperatures. This dramati- peat clinging to the trees’ root system
cally reduces the length of the growing are torn away from the island Just how
season in the bog, as compared to sur- much time the island has before it disap-
pears is unknown. Cranberry Bog State
Nature Preserve remains today as one of
the most unique and fascinating natural
areas in the nation.

A Bog Tour
Due to the fragile condition of the
preserve, access is restricted to small,
supervised groups. To learn more about
visiting the bog, go to www.buckeye-
lakehistory.org or call 740-929-1998.

First Canal Boat Buitl in Hebron 11

The Strange Fate of the First Canal Boat Built in Hebron

The first canal boat constructed on the Ohio Canal was the “Lady Jane”,
built in 1836 in Hebron. A great crowd gathered to cheer the launching from
the basin, the present-day location of
the Hebron Fire Station & American
Legion Hall.
The cheering crowd waved
“goodbye” and went back to their
July 4th activities, only to see the boat
quickly return.
As it turns out, the Lady Jane
made it to the Taylor Locks (across
from the entrance to Kaiser Alumi-
num) only to discover the boat was too
wide for the lock!
Lady Jane ended up moored in
the Hebron basin, only to become a place for the townsmen to play cards, gam-
ble, drink, and just generally be guys.
Local lore holds that the ladies of the Hebron churches organized and marched to
the Lady Jane and set fire to the world’s lowest-mileage canal boat.

From Rails to Trails in The Buckeye Lake Region

The first lakeside rails were laid in 1875 by the Straitsville RR from
Thornport, past Avondale and into Newark, bringing coal and passengers
from Perry County. Remnants of the railway may be seen today, especial-
ly along Lancer drive. As it passed Avondale there was a passenger stop
at what is now Papa Boos, then a “fish camp” recreation area. On Rt. 40
across from Lakewood school the railway is now a paved bicycle/walking
trail that goes uninterrupted into the Heath/Newark area. Bring your bike
or walking shoes and enjoy the rural views!

12 Weldon’s Ice Cream
numbers have been preserved on
Since 1930, visitors to Mill- the original doors.
ersport have enjoyed the delicious Located at 2887 Canal Drive,
home-made ice cream served Millersport, on the western shore-
at Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory. line of Buckeye Lake, this historic
Through the years, ice cream lov- landmark remains in the hands of
ers have climbed the stairs on the the original family and is current-
front porch to enter the ice cream ly managed by David K. Pierce,
parlor and purchase their favor- grandson of the original owner,
ite treat, while enjoying the view Rudy Weldon.
across the western waters of the
lake with family and friends. www.weldons.com
The structure was originally
built as a hotel and was part of the
Summerland Resort, built in 1899
by Samuel J. Wooley, great-great
uncle of the current manager. In
1918 the hotel was moved from
Summerland Beach to its current
location where it was known as the
OSLICO Club, a resort retreat for
employees of the Ohio State Life
Insurance Company (OSLICO).
The OSLICO was converted to
an ice cream factory in 1929 and
purchased by Rudy Weldon later
that same year. Much of the origi-
nal refrigeration equipment re-
mains intact and used in ice cream
production, as well as technique
straight from the 1930’s and ‘40’s.
Weldon’s Ice Cream Factory
officially began operation Decem-
ber 29, 1930. The business con-
tinues in its original form and the
family still lives above the factory
where many of the hotels’ room

13

14 Queen of the Lake
History of the Famous Queen of The Lake

The arrival of a sternwheeler tour tened the “Queen of the Lake III”. This
boat on Buckeye Lake came in 1950 boat will give public tours, dinner cruis-
when area native Fred Taylor and his es, and be available for special outings.
sons of Millersport believed that Buck- It will be a most beautiful addition to
eye Lake needed a passenger boat. He Buckeye Lake.
built the boat right on the water in a “QLIII” is currently in the yacht
Buckeye Lake Channel. club storage lot. There our dedicat-
The last sternwheeler was retired ed volunteers will take on the task of
in 1973 a few years after the Amuse- re-building her in the same design as
ment Park closed. For many years there- the original sternwheeler, The Queen
after visitors to the lake would stand on of the Lake. She is scheduled to launch
the shoreline and wish they could take a for passenger service in spring of 2019
tour of Buckeye Lake. when she will be the latest craft to share
In 2007, the Buckeye Lake Histor- with visitors and guests the beauty and
ical Society focused on bringing a tour history of Buckeye Lake, Ohio’s oldest
boat back to the lake. Through their State Park. For more information go to:
efforts the ”Queen of the Lake II” was www.buckeyelakehistory.org
launched, a 48’ pontoon boat donated
to the Museum that became a commu-
nity investment as many groups came
together to get her in the water. She has
taken thousands of visitors on tours of
Buckeye Lake’s historic shoreline along
with tours of the famous Cranberry Bog.
Now history is repeating itself.
An 88ft true sternwheeler built on the
Muskingham River was recently donat-
ed to the Museum. She is to be chris-

Village of Buckeye Lake 15

Buckeye Lake 14.
Village 19.

Business 2.
4
1. A-1 Auto Parts, Rt. 79 5.
2. Remax 360,11053 Hebron Rd.
3. Buckeye Lake Hardware,11109 Hebron Rd.
4. Louie’s Corner House, 11174 Hebron Rd.
5. Donatos Pizza, 11048 Hebron Rd.
6. North Valley Bank, 5245 Walnut Rd.
7. Village of Buckeye Lake, 5192 Walnut Rd.
8. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 5133 Walnut Rd.
9. TLR and Associates, 5279 North Bank Rd.
10. Chef Shack, 5176 Walnut Rd.
11. Buckeye Lake Brewery, 5176 Walnut Rd.
12. Buckeye Lake Yacht Club, 5109 North Bank Rd.
13. Greater Buckeye Lake Historical Society Museum
4729 Walnut Rd.
14. Barrel Bar, 4675 Walnut Rd.
15. Pizza Cottage, 4592 Walnut Rd.
16. HER Realtors, 4595 Walnut Rd.
Lisa Stewart/HER Realtors
17. Buckeye Lake Library, 4455 Walnut Rd.
18. PetPlex, 4200 Walnut Rd.
19. Harbor Hills Country Club, 225 Freeman Dr.

18. 15. 7.
17. 16. 11.

10. 9.
6.

8.

12.

13.

14.

16 Village of Buckeye Lake

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Village of Buckeye Lake

The Village of Buckeye
Lake was incorporated July 9,
1980. This village is located on
State Route 79, abutting I-70 on
the north and Buckeye Lake to
the south. It is approximately
half way between Columbus and
Zanesville and many of the resi-
dents commute to work in these
towns. It is a growing commu-
nity covering 1159 acres or 1.81
square miles, with a population of
approximately 3,200 residents.
Interestingly, the village was
originally comprised of private-
ly-owned so called “additions.”
Instead of selling the land to the
cottage owners, it was leased for,
say, $10 a year. The additions
were Neel, Myer, Rosebraugh,
Bounds, Carlin, Elliott and Holts-
berry. Today nearly all land has
been sold to homeowners.
The evolution from resort
area to incorporated residential
village was driven by the desire
to update former summer cot-
tages into year-round, permanent
homes. Interesting places to see
in Buckeye Lake Include the Blue
Heron nesting area, Cranberry
Bog, the Lake itself, Buckeye
Lake Museum, North Shore side-
walk along the original canal tow

continued on page 18

Village of Buckeye Lake 17

The Village of Buckeye Lake

Incorporated 1980

Tourist Information
Museums / Log Cabin

Private Clubs
3500 Acre State Lake
North Shore Boat Ramp

Boating Picnic Areas
Fishing

Camp grounds
Unique Restaurants
Quaint Gift Shops
Cranberry Bog Tours
Classic Boat Show

Services:

Police Department 928-0999 Fire Department 928-3473
Village Office 928-7100 Fax: 928-8843
5192 Walnut Road, P.O. Box 27
Buckeye Lake, OH 43008
www.buckeyelakevillage.com

18 Village of Buckeye Lake

path and the Yacht Club. Several restaurants, a brew-
There are churches of sev- ery, bank, an automotive parts
eral faiths, a Community Action store, Laundromat, and a mo-
Agency, Neighborhood Center, tel are welcome business assets
LEADS, a full-service library to the community, as is a public
and more serving the residents. A water system that came online in
Volunteer Fire Department, Youth 2010, along with the re-paving of
Association, Chamber of Com- many of the village streets. High-
merce, Civic Association, Scout lighting the community pride is
Troops and Lions Club are all ac- the Buckeye Lake Museum, ded-
tive in the concerns and welfare icated to the history of the entire
of the community and in the af- Buckeye Lake Region. News-
fairs of a self-governed, growing paper service is furnished by the
village. Buckeye Lake Village Buckeye Lake Beacon, Buckeye
has a nicely equipped park, “Ryan Lake Shopper, Columbus Dis-
Park”, with a ball diamond, bas- patch and Newark Advocate. The
ketball court, picnic shelter, bike radio stations of Heath and New-
& skateboard park, rest rooms ark cover activities in the village.
and children’s play equipment. Several new businesses have set-
tled and expanded in the area.
SMOKEHOUSE Fishing, boating and camp-
ing are available in the village.
In Thornport, OH Since 1987 • (740)246-5000 The State of Ohio purchased the
Visit us on Facebook or online former amusement park land and
developed the grounds into the
A/C - Inside Bar - Open 365 days a year till 2:30 a.m. state-owned “North Shore Land-
ing” park with 3 boat ramps, sand
SMOKEHOUSE April thru Sept. beach swimming area, restrooms
and public docks. This park is
Applewood Smoked Beef Brisket currently being used as a staging
RIBS, WINGS, PORK, CHICKEN point for the Buckeye Lake Dam
construction, but public access re-
Homemade Sides, Sauces, and Salads mains as of this writing.
Come spend an afternoon at
•CLAM BAKE first Sunday of each month Buckeye Lake – you may be so
•OPEN STAGE every Wednesday, since ‘97 enchanted you become our new-
est resident!
•KARAOKE every Thursday
•Large Beer Garden ON the water
•Live OUTDOOR Entertainment every Fri., Sat., Sun!
•OUTDOOR Bar & Grill •Ample parking/docks available

One block west of St. Rt. 13. Two miles south of I-70 located
“ON” the Thornport channel East end BUCKEYE LAKE!

Buckeye Lake Museum 19

Greater Buckeye Lake Museum

The pride of the Buckeye ing suits and shoe skates.
Lake Region is evident at the Muse- The Museum features spe-
um, located at the corner of Route cial displays of the Polo Field, the
79 (Walnut Road) and Cottage Yacht Club, our Veteran’s Memori-
street beside the Post Office in the am of Uniforms and Guns, an origi-
Village of Buckeye Lake. Open: nal 1918 Chevrolet that was used in
Tuesday – Sunday from 1:00 – 4:00 Hebron and Buckeye Lake Parades
p.m. and other hours by request. and the completely restored Rocket
Thousands of items bring back Ship ride from the park.
the memories of the “old days” at A great way to learn more
famous Buckeye Lake Amusement about the Buckeye Lake Region is
Park. See a complete layout of the to visit our Museum. Put it on your
Park, the original taffy puller, plus “must see” list! Contact (740) 929-
hundreds of photos, tickets, bath- 1998 or www.buckeyelakehistory.org.

20 Village of Hebron

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hebron

Hebron , the sixth town founded at that time as “ The Crossroads of
in Licking County, is located on Ohio”, the nickname of the village
Route 40, the “Old National Trail”, to this day.
which was constructed through Hebron was a busy mar-
Hebron in 1834. The road origi- ket-place as it became the regional
nated in Cumberland, Maryland center for importing and exporting
and ended at Vandalia, Illinois. products. Soon there were tanner-
The Ohio-Erie Canal extend- ies, sawmills, warehouses, distill-
ed from Cleveland on Lake Erie to eries, stage coach stops and pioneer
Portsmouth on the Ohio River, and traffic heading westward.
was constructed through Hebron in The Village is governed by an
1828. Since the direction of these elected Mayor, Village Council and
two major routes of transportation Clerk/Treasurer. A Village Admin-
crossed directly in the center of istrator oversees daily operations.
Hebron, the village became known It is protected by a full-time police

Village of Hebron 21

1. Pal Printing, 116 E. Main St. 13.
2. Park National Bank, 103 E. Main St. 12.
3. Lakewood School District Offices, 525 E. Main St.
4. Commodore Bank, 202 Commodore Ct. 11.
5. Best Western Plus, 122 Arrowhead Blvd.
6. Liz Godsey Agency A;;state, 620 E. Main St.
7. Mill Dam Corner Grille, 3982 National Rd.
8. Cumberland Meadows, 1003 Cumberland Meadows Dr.
9. The Village of Hebron, 935 W. Main St.
10. The Sunset Inn Restaurant, 1060 National Rd. SE
11. Coconis Furniture, 2005 Hebron Rd.
12. RCD RV Supercenter, 1990 Hebron Rd.
13. The Hampton Inn, 1006 Hebron Rd.

9. 8. 2. 3.
10. 1.
4. 5. 6.
7.

WE REPAIR
LIGHTING

at One Man’s Treasure...

For all your lamp needs!
Pick-Up & Delivery
12027 Lancaster St.

Millersport, OH 43046

467-PLUG (7584)

mailto:[email protected]

22 Village of Hebron

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hebron

force and a staffed Fire Department path, basketball courts, BMX park,
provides EMS. Veterans Memorial, baseball, foot-
The Newark Advocate, Buck- ball, and soccer fields add to our
eye Lake Beacon, Columbus Dis- beautiful community.
patch and Buckeye Lake Shopper Active organizations in He-
serve as our news outlets. bron include the Mutual and Civic
A large industrial park on Improvement Club, Hebron Lions
State Route 79 north (known as the Club, American Legion Post 285
Newark Industrial Park) is a boon and Ladies Auxiliary, Boy and Girl
to the providing a number of assets Scouts, 4H Clubs, Masonic Lodge
for the Village of approximately F& AM 116, Fifty Five Club for
2200 residents. Hebron is strate- seniors and the Hebron Historical
gically located near Interstate 70, Society.
with State Route 79 and the Histor-
ic Road crossing through Hebron.
There are utilities, good schools,
churches, library, banking, restau-
rants and shopping facilities. Ac-
cess to Port Columbus Airport is
only a half-hour away.
Canal Park features two light-
ed ball fields, gazebo, shelter house,
and a playground. Evans park with
its protected wetlands, walking

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Village of Hebron 23

24

Thornport 25

1.

7. 6. 5. 8.
9.
2.
4. 3.

1. Lake’s End, 9075 Boundaries Rd.
2. T.C. Market, 14720 Zion Rd.
3. The Dearlove Co., 14840 Zion Rd.
4. Lucky’s Lakeside Grille, 14595 Zion Rd.
5. A & T’s Hair Salon, 7531 Township Rd.
6. PORT Smokehouse, 9308 Township Rd.
7. The Copper Penny, 15396 Township Rd.
8. Thompson Insurance, 14888 St. Rt. 13
9. Explore Buckeye Lake/Buckeye Lake Shopper Reporter

26 Thornport

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thornport
pine lumber, salt, groceries, dry goods,
Thornport is a small unincorpo- etc.
rated town with a rich history. It’s been Modern visitors to Thornport
more than a fishing resort and a place will find a complete grocery, several
to visit the local tavern. dining/shopping and banking options
A government survey map of the along with the active and vibrant Am-
Refugee Tract (the present Buckeye vets Post. Heron Bay, a beautiful lake-
Lake) was signed in 1801 and Thorn- side community of fine home and con-
port was laid out in 1839 by William dominiums, is adjacent to Thornport.
W. Talbott who had an agreement with
Licking Summit Reservoir Improve- Central Ohio’s Only Complete Line of Fireworks
ment Company of Thornville to con- Professional Outdoor, Indoor and Consumer
struct the canal in Thornport. Fireworks
In 1850 Thornport was a lively 2240 Horns Mill Rd.
community at the head of navigation Lancaster, Ohio 43130
on the east end of the lake and the 740-654-2666
only seaport in Perry County. During www.hamburgfireworks.com
the boating season, many canal boats
could be seen waiting their turn to be
loaded with flour and grain for Cleve-
land. Upon their return they brought

27

Lake Facts
• The State of Ohio has owned and managed Buckeye Lake for over 150
years.
• Buckeye Lake, not a true lake, is a man-made impoundment holding
millions of gallons of water from a twenty-seven hundred acre reservoir
and a forty-four square mile watershed... all held in place by a four-mile-
long earthen dam.
• The original Buckeye Lake Dam was built before the Civil War by men and
mules using swamp dredging and loose rock fill.
• First spillway to control lake water level was added around 1910.


38

28

Millersport Pharmacy Same Great Taste Since 1972 BUCKEYE LAKE

• Prescriptions Dine-In • Carry-Out 740-928-1144
• Cards Stop in and enjoy 4592 Walnut Rd. (Rt. 79)
• Cosmetics great pizza that will
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9 TO 6 DAILY - CLOSED SUNDAYS LANCASTER

FREE ESTIMATES 740-654-2400
2223 W. Fair Ave.

NEWARK

740-366-5747
969 Mt. Vernon Rd. (Rt. 13)

PICKERINGTON

614-856-3333
1000 Old Diley Rd.

ZANESVILLE

740-455-6000
3938 Pond View Dr.

3940 South Bank Road
Millersport
740-467-2882

[email protected]
Avalon Pontoons
Mercury Marine

Shore Station Hoists
www.alexanderslanding.com

Thornville 29

1. 2.

Thornville
Business

1. Village of Thornville, 1 Main St.
2. Thornville Pharmacy, 2 Main St.
Beach House Pub, 13585 Rosewood Dr.
Buckeye Lake Winery, 13750 Rosewood Dr.

30 Thornville & Thorn Township

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thornville & Thorn Township

The most likely first explorer to map as center of trade for the local farm-
what is now Thornport was Christo- ers. The largest is Thornville, platted in
pher Gist who in 1750 began work for 1810.
the Ohio Company, established by the The early industries thriving be-
British government to stem the flow of tween 1833-1880 included tailors,
the French into what is now the State of shoemakers, a wagon factory, several
Ohio. From Gist’s writings we know he blacksmiths, and other businesses which
stopped on the shores of the “Great Buf- attracted people from miles away.
falo Swamp”, that he encamped, fished Even though the railroads have
and trapped here, wrote of the beauties moved out of Thorn Township, Thorrn-
of the area and the abundance of wild- ville, with access to the world by way
life. of interstate highway system, is no
Thorn Township, named for the longer an isolated village. Visitors will
numerous thorn bushes along the south- find beautiful Victorian homes, a pub-
ern shore of the lake, was originally part lic swimming pool, bowling alley and
of Fairfield County. In 1804 it was or- restaurants, banks and antique shops.
ganized as a congressional Township, Thornville hosts several festivals each
a six-mile square unit. March 1, 1817, year, including the “Backwoods Fest”
parts of Washington, Muskingum and a September festival of primitive arts,
Fairfield Counties were combined to crafts, music and food that draws tens of
create a new county, Perry, named for thousands of fans to this unique, fami-
Oliver Hazard Perry of Put-in-Bay fame. ly-friendly event.
Settlements began to appear on the

Doug Poorman, D.V.M.
Dr. Justin Kirchhofer Dr. Julie Mestemaker
Dr. Libby Turchia Dr. Amber Kostelansky

31

WHAT IS BUCKEYE LAKE 2030?

Buckeye Lake 2030 (BL2030) is a grassroots Declaration created in January 2016 by
over 270 volunteers to chart the economic growth of Buckeye Lake Region, in order to

improve the well-being and prosperity of its residents and businesses.

Buckeye Lake Region Corporation (BLR Corporation) is a non-profit organization
open to all political and civic entities of the tri-county Buckeye Lake Region, created to

coordinate and implement the mission outlined in BL2030.

LEARN, VOLUNTEER, SUPPORT: BuckeyeLake2030.org

VISIT BUCKEYE LAKE 2030 ON FACEBOOK

32

St. Rt. 40 (National Road) Mill D

Canal Road 40

I-70 Exit 129

Mill Dam Road

Exit 126 East Street

St. Rt. 79

Canal Rd
Buckeye Lake Union Ave

St. Rt. 37 79 North
Shore
West Bank Roa Ldakeside Road Ramp
Buckeye Lake
Yacht Club

St. Rt. 79 Buckeye Lake
Museum
Walnut Road
Lakeside Road Buckeye Lake VFW 360 Round Buckeye Beach
Shepard Ave. North Bank Road Avalon Dr Marina
Island Lake Shor

Circle The
Island PB
Orchard Jaeger Beach House
Island
Road
Lake RoadSellers Journal
Millersport Road Point Island

Fairfield

Ballard Lane Shell Beach Road

37 Public Swim Area
Onion
Lieb’s Island Keller
Island Island

Leibs’ Is. Leib’s Island Alexander’s
Rd.State Park Marina
Fisher’s
Island Marina
House

MILLERSPORT Weldon’s Ice South Bank Rd.
Cream Buckeye Lake Marina

St.Rt. 204 204

Chatauqua Blvd.

Summerland
Beach Road

St. Rt. 204

33

Dam Corner Grille I-70 Exit 132 I-70
Christland Hill Road

Hunt’s Freeman Memorial Christland Hill Road Licking Trails Road St. Rt. 13
Landing Jimmy Harbor View Hts.
Carter’s
Cranberry Lakeshore Dr.W. Harbor Hills Marina Christland Hill Road
Bay & Golf Course
Avondale Road
Cranberry Bog Firemans Avon Pl.
Park Public Swim Area
NO WAKE Boy Scout Edgewater Beach Blvd.
ZONE Island Honey Creek Road Copper Penny

Beach Elm
Island Island

Snug Heron Blackbird
Harbor Bay Lane

re Drive Rosewood Honey Creek Road Zion Rd Buckeye Lake
e Sand Custer Point Road Port Smokehouse AmVets Moose Lodge
PBuabr Roberts Road BBQ & Pub

Zartman Road Lucky’s Lakeside Grill

d Beach Road 13 Zion Road
THORNVILLE

St. Rt. 204

VISIT BUCKEYE LAKE 2030 ON FACEBOOK

34DESIGNS AND CONCEPTS RESULTING FROM COMMUNITY INPUT

VILLAGE OF BUCKEYE LAKE FAIRFIELD BEACH

A town Center with a mix of Envisioning a 5-acre crystal-
sustainable retail and residential, clear swimming and recreation
along with a 300’ pier. amenity immune to larger water
quality issues.

MILLERSPORT THORNPORT

Imagine the canal area as Exploring the possibilities of a
a place you want to visit. vibrant hamlet at Perry County’s
gateway. Extensive dredging is
STATE ISLAND PARK needed on the east end of the
lake to make this possible.
Immediately west of Leib’s
Island, featuring a state lodge Details of these concepts and more available at
and rental cottages. BuckeyeLake2030.org

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

YOUR IDEAS

Email [email protected] or contact appropriate committee

YOUR SWEAT

Email [email protected] or contact appropriate committee

YOUR TREASURE

BY CHECK:

Make payable to: The Columbus Foundation
Memo Line: The Buckeye Lake Region Community Foundation
Mail: The Columbus Foundation, Attn: Jeff Byars
1234 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205-1453

OR ONLINE:

Donate online at blrfoundation.org

Contact us at (740) 964-4520 or [email protected] for a donation kit.

LEARN, VOLUNTEER, SUPPORT: BuckeyeLake2030.org

VISIT BUCKEYE LAKE 2030 ON FACEBOOK

Data prepared by Gruen Gruen + Associates - Urban Economists, Market Strategists, Land Use / Public Policy Analysts - January 2017

35

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TIMOTHY L. RYAN Fax: 740-527-2379
E-mail: [email protected]

36 Millersport

1. 2.

7. 3. 4. 5.
6.

12.
11.

8. 9. 1. Millersport Area
10. 15. 2.
3. Business
13. 4.
5. Fisher’s Marina, 3227 Fisher Ave.
6. Island House, 2977 Greenlawn Ave.
7. Wall to Wall Floors, 12450 Lancaster St.
8. Guitar Parts Factory, 12456 Lancaster St.
9. The Eye Site, 12464 Lancaster St.
10. Spring Financial, 12466 Lancaster St.
11. Feeder Creek Veterinary Service, 12575 Millersport Rd.
12. Millersport Pharmacy, 12075 Millersport Rd.
13. Hometown Hot Dogs, 12031 Lancaster St.
14. One Man’s Treasure, 12027 Lancaster St.
15. Weldon’s Ice Cream, 2887 Canal Dr.
Buckeye Lake Marina, 2920 Canal Rd.
Village of Millersport, 2246 Refugee St.
Alexander’s Landing, 3940 S. Bank Rd.
Commodore Bank, 12101 Lancaster St.

14.

Millersport 37

The community of Millersport, northeast corner of Fairfield County
Ohio, was founded in 1825 by in central Ohio. It rests on the south
Mathias Miller as a port of trade and west banks of Buckeye Lake,
on the Ohio Erie Canal. With the an extremely popular resort area in
perseverance and central Ohio.
creative initiative of its residents, Businesses provide tourists
Millersport has flourished. with restaurants, bait stores, park
Millersport is a beautiful offices, service stations, grocery
community with the Buckeye stores, nightclubs, and a very
Lake to the east and rural farms popular old-fashioned homemade
throughout the surrounding area. A ice cream parlor.
well preserved portion of the Ohio Millersport is also the site of
Erie canal cuts through the center the second largest festival in the
of town enhancing the colorful, state of Ohio, the annual “Sweet
picturesque community loved by Corn Festival”. Through the years,
its approximately 900 citizens. millions of people have come to
Millersport is located in the enjoy the shows, music, parades,

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38 Millersport

rides, and exceptionally good food. churches, civic organizations,
Square dancing, talent shows, businesses, and the public school
games and lots of fun grace the system. The local government has
festival each year on Labor Day as its goal maintaining the values
weekend. With every conceivable upon which the community was
delicious food available, the most established and building upon
popular is the steaming hot and juicy that foundation to assure steady
sweet corn dripping with butter. growth, progressive innovation and
Children and adults alike devourer a healthy tomorrow.
it with earnest enjoyment and utter The Village of Millersport is a
delight. The profits earned by the great place to live and raise a family.
Sweet Corn Festival help finance It is a tremendous place to visit
participating civic organizations and enjoy as a guest. Though it is
and provide eyeglasses through the within 30 minutes of Columbus and
Lions Club for children unable to Zanesville and within 20 minutes of
afford them. Lancaster and Newark, Millersport
There is no community as has maintained a fresh country
small and tranquil that offers flavor. Perhaps you should come
more than Millersport. The mayor, see for yourself, taste Millersport’s
village council, board of public fruit, meet its people, and enjoy
affairs, Volunteer Fire Department what it has to offer. Likely you too
and Police Department continually will find it an oasis in the desert,
seek to maintain a community an island in the stream, and an
rich in history, patriotism, culture extremely refreshing community
and environmental beauty. They in the heart of Central Ohio. That’s
also endeavor to enhance the Millersport!
opportunities of the citizens, local

Buckeye Lake Brewery 39

Buckeye Lake Brewery

Rich Hennosy, owner of fun and unpretentious history that
Buckeye Lake Brewery, recently I wanted my business to embrace”.
reflected on his first years in business. Buckeye Lake Brewery has lived up
“I opened Buckeye Lake to that history, building a reputation
Brewery on February 5th, 2012, and for great beer and a comfortable
I opened it in the Village of Buckeye atmosphere where friends meet and
Lake because I have been around neighbors get to know each other. To
the Region for decades (Rich has that end, the music is low and TVs are
a cottage on the South Side of the non-existent except for very special
Lake) and the Buckeye Lake Region occasions. A recent addition is the
is a special place. A big plus is that “Chef Shack” offering great food on
the Village of Buckeye Lake has great site.
access to I-70 and Columbus.” “Unlike many breweries, we are
“Since opening we have grown open 7 days a week and are fortunate
from 2,000 sq. ft. to 7,000 and from to offer comfortable outdoor seating
200 barrels of beer to 1050. for customers to enjoy our “true to
“I named it “Buckeye Lake style” craft beers, brewed right here
Brewery” because “Buckeye Lake” in the heart of the Buckeye Lake
is such a great brand, with a social, Region”.

40 Buckeye Lake Story

Buckeye Lake Story

In the mid 1700’s, Buck- which would eventually become
eye Lake was known by the Buckeye Lake. In the canal days,
Indians as the “Big Swamp” or Buckeye Lake gained yet anoth-
“Big Pond.” Near the pond was er name, the “Licking Summit”,
a salt spring that attracted deer because it was one of the high
and bison, which gave the area points along the canal’s planned
another name: “Buffalo Lick.” path.
The Lake, as it is known today, As the water level rose,
was formed in the Glacial Peri- several large mats of sphagnum
od. It was of little importance to moss broke loose from the
the white men until the building bottom and became “floating
of the Ohio Canal. The building islands.”
of the canal enlarged the lake to Other islands were also created
7 1/4 miles in length and about because the land was above the
1 1/4 miles in width at its wid- water level.
est point, the dimensions of the Port towns and mills sprung
lake as we know it today. On up along the canal system during
July 4, 1825, the first shovel of its construction. Horses and
earth was turned to begin the mules pulled the barges up and
Ohio-Erie Canal System. The down the canals from the tow
July 4 ceremony was held on paths built along the sides of the
State Route 79 midway between canal. In fact, the North Bank of
Newark and Hebron. Approxi- Buckeye Lake was a tow path
mately 100 years after the cer- and today is known as the “Old
emony, a granite boulder with Tow Path.” Barges first used the
a bronze plaque was erected on route in 1831, six years after
the site by Licking County res- ground breaking. Even in disuse,
idents. Construction of the dike, canals exerted a great influence
blocking drainage into the South on transportation because even-
Fork of the Licking River, be- tually highways and railways
gan in 1826 and was completed were often constructed along the
in 1830, forming the reservoir old, abandoned canal routes.

Buckeye Lake Story 41

The Deep Cut Canal is the deep cut canal made specifical-
most discernible part of the ly to get the canal water in the
Ohio and Erie Canal in Fairfield Lake to flow toward Baltimore,
County, running from Bickel Canal Winchester, and on to Cir-
Church Road to Buckeye Lake, cleville. This canal goes right
approximately 4 miles in length. through downtown Millersport.
The Deep Cut is actually a very

Bike Buckeye Lake

Peddling Into a Bright Future for Christmas Bike Drive” provided 65
bikes and helmets, a number that
All grew to 176 in 2017. One of the
“Bike Buckeye Lake” is a non upcoming fund-raising activities is
– profit entity consisting of local the August 25th “Tour de Lake” cy-
residents working to create cycling cling event around the lake, where a
and walking trails that everyone portion of the proceeds goes to the
may enjoy. Safe trails offering Christmas Bike Drive, along with
healthy, free, family fun that em- supporting the ongoing efforts of
braces the unique Buckeye Lake Bike Buckeye Lake. Check out the
Region is the goal. “Tour de Lake” ad below for details
Trails are not the only good on this event. (in 2017 over 225 rid-
thing Bike Buckeye Lake is work- ers participated!) And if you would
ing on; there is also ongoing fund- like to know more about Bike
raising to provide bicycles and hel- Buckeye Lake be sure to check out
mets to youth in the region that may www.bikebuckeyelake.org or the
not otherwise receive any presents Bike Buckeye Lake Facebook page
at Christmas. In 2016 the “BLB

SAVE THE DATE
2nd ANNUAL “TOUR de BUCKEYE LAKE”

SATURDAY, AUGUST 25, 2018
Go to:

bikebuckeyelake.org
for details

42 Buckeye Lake VFW

Buckeye Lake VFW

The Buckeye Lake Veterans of Foreign Wars hall on Rt 360 near the
spillway is built on the site of the historic Minthorn Hotel, one of the very
first occupied structures around the Lake. And the VFW is making history
today, with a tradition of supporting not only veteran’s’ causes, but also many
worthwhile charities to help all Ohioans in need. How do they do this? With
activities at the hall ranging from card clubs to live entertainment, where
members and guests at the VFW take advantage of the full-service bar and
kitchen that serves up great food at great prices. And you don’t have to be a
member to visit! The VFW is open to the public and offers social member-
ships, with great benefits, to all! How nice is it to know that when you are
at the VFW enjoying food and fun with your friends that your money helps
to support worthwhile causes? It’s a win-win! Please stop by and visit the
Buckeye Lake VFW – your friends are already there!

Thrivent and Jeff Ritter

“Values” Mean More Than Financial Return.
Lakeside resident and Thrivent Financial Services agent Jeff Ritter
serves the financial needs of the Buckeye Lake Region Christian community
with 21 years of financial advisor experience, and Thrivent Financial serves
the communities of their clients with a tradition of giving back to good caus-
es. When considering who to trust with your financial future, consider that
Thrivent has been rated one of the most ethical businesses in America 5 years
in a row by Ethisphere.
Jeff brings his experience to bear to assist clients with financial services
for all goals and stages of life. Call Jeff to learn more about what makes
Thrivent Financial a different – and better- kind of company. See his ad else-
where in this issue.

Welcome Animal lovers

12575 Lancaster Street
Millersport, Ohio 43046
www.feedercreekvet.com

(740) 467-2949 • (800) 451-2746

Buckeye Lake Amusement Park 43

The Famous Buckeye Lake Amusement Park

Buckeye Lake was home to “The sphere Man”, just to list a few.
Playground of Ohio”, a very popular Boats of all kinds were avail-
amusement park located where the able for boat rides, including the
North Shore State park is now. It was big stern-wheeler, fast speed boats,
not unusual for 50,000 people a day to “u-drive em” boats and row boats.
come to the Park on holidays… Easter, The Park had many ride attrac-
4th of July, Labor day and other special tions through the years. The biggest
times. and most popular was the roller coaster
The park had two big dance halls “The Dips”.
and all the big bands of that time, in- Concessions of all kinds were in
cluding Tommy Dorsey, Guy Lom- the park, with games of skill, Bowling,
bardo, Vaughn Monroe, Xavier Cugat, Penny Arcades, Fortune Tellers, a Ri-
Kay Kyser, Lawrence Welk and Cab fle Range using live ammunition, and a
Calloway played at the Lake. Drug Store with souvenirs.
Free Acts were performed each The Roller Coaster “crashed” in
night in the center of the park. Among 1958 and was never repaired. As other
the performers were the Wallendas (an attractions deteriorated, the Park went
aerial group), carnival acts, dog and downhill, coming to an end in the late
horse acts, and “Seldon the Strato- 1960’s.

Lake Life!
Live It, Love It!

Lisa Stewart, REALTOR®
Your Buckeye Lake Expert!

Let me help you get started.

740.814.0166
[email protected] herrealtors.com/lisastewart

44 Buckeye Lake Yacht Club

The Buckeye Lake Yacht Club

Early Visionaries of the Lake Region

The Buckeye Lake Yacht Club was established in 1906 by a group of recre-
ation-minded gents who looked at a stump-clogged reservoir and envisioned the lake we
enjoy today. Early Club members used their statehouse connections to lobby the State of
Ohio and were instrumental in having the lake cleared and the spillways constructed to
control the water level.
Since 1912 the BLYC has been located
on an island connected to the North Bank by a
foot bridge. Illustrating their early political con-
nections, the island is named “Watkins Island”
in honor of George H. Watkins, president of the
Ohio State Board of Public Works in the early
1900’s. Watkins ran the agency with the authority
to turn this stumpy reservoir into a real lake, and
with the urging of the club members did exactly
that.
The Club sponsors many lake-area projects and benefits to this day, along with
sailing races and regattas. The private, members-only club is open to the public during the
“Cruisin’ at the Yacht Club” car show July 8th and the “Buckeye Lake Winterfest” Janu-
ary 26th. Mark the dates to visit the historic clubhouse during these “open house” events
and check out far more information and membership details at www.buckeyelakeyc.com

Buckeye Lake Library 45

Buckeye Lake Library

Thanks to a partnership be-
tween the Friends of the Buckeye
Lake Library and the Newark Pub-
lic Library (now Licking County
Library), the Buckeye Lake Library
opened its doors for the first time
on September 10, 2005. It’s orig-
inal location at 41 W. First Street
was leased to the Friends Group
for $1.00 a year by the Village of
Buckeye Lake. The agreement was
that the Library would provide the
staffing, collection, and technology
providing the Friends Group paid
for the lease, utilities, and upkeep
on the building. This was all part
of a two year provisional status,
both parties wanting to see if the
interest, usage, and support of the
area was enough to maintain a fully
operating library branch.
The community responded
to the library in a positive way by
voting “yes” on a library levy, pro-
viding support to the Friends of the
Buckeye Lake Library group, and
becoming loyal everyday patrons.
In January 2012, the library moved
from its original location to a spa-
cious facility located at 4455 Wal-
nut Road. The new location boasts
more than three times the original
square footage, better visibility,
and more parking spaces. So much

46 Buckeye Lake Library

Buckeye Lake Library

hard work and dedication has went into making this library a successful
and thriving organization. The library has become an integral part of
the community offering programs, materials, and technology to area resi-
dents.
Many people who walk through our doors are surprised by the di-
verse collection, the vast variety of programs and technology resources
provided. Children of all ages love the life-sized pirate, treasure chest,
and story time boat located in the children’s department. The gazebo and
victory garden is a relaxing outdoor space for programming during the
warm summer months. And many groups and organizations reserve our
spacious conference room for meetings and programs.
Looking to the future, the goal of the library to keep growing in ev-
ery way. To build lifelong relationships within the community, to inspire
learning and intellectual growth, and to always make the library an open
and welcoming place to everyone. Please stop by the Buckeye Lake Li-
brary and check us out!

Harbor Hills

Harbor Hills, a development of beautiful homes on the northeastern
shore of the Lake, was started in 1922 by Harry Freeman, a Columbus
realtor. Homes were built on the hilly property and a nine-hole golf course
was put in with the 7th green beside the Lake.
Harbor Hills also featured a polo field that was a scant 18 inches
higher than nearby Buckeye Lake keeping the ground in soft condition.
The field, owned by Dr. Clyde Reed, was rented for $1 a year.
Matches were played on Sunday afternoons as Spectators lined the
sides of the field and riders came from throughout Central Ohio.
Preserving the history of the polo era are photos, balls, clubs and sad-
dles on display at the Buckeye Lake Museum, donated by Bill Gochen-
bach who, along with his son, played the game. Today, Harbor Hills offers
visitors a fine public golf course with beautiful lake views from several
vantage spots along the course.