As a lifelong resident of Ross County, Ohio, and someone who works in tourism, I don’t just tell our story—I live it every day. America 250 feels personal here. It’s not simply a milestone marking 250 years since our nation’s founding; it’s a moment to pause, reflect, celebrate, and educate—especially for future generations—while honoring the history that shaped us and the progress that continues to move us forward.
For me, America 250 is about looking both backward and ahead. It’s about recognizing where we’ve been, acknowledging the people and events that brought us here, and imagining what Ross County will look like for the next 250 years.
Where America’s Story Runs Deep
Ross County holds a special place in the American story. As the site of Ohio’s first capital, Chillicothe was once at the center of early statehood and governance. Decisions made here helped shape not only Ohio, but the growing nation itself. That alone is reason for pride—but our story stretches far deeper.
Long before statehood, this land was home to the Hopewell Culture, whose earthworks and legacy still inspire awe today. Their presence reminds us that America’s history did not begin in 1776, and that honoring Indigenous cultures is essential to understanding who we are.
If I had to choose one place that best represents what America 250 means to me, it would be Adena Mansion and Gardens. Standing on those grounds, you can feel history layered beneath your feet—political leadership, architectural beauty, and the everyday lives of people who believed in building something lasting. Adena connects our past to our present in a way that feels tangible and real.
The People Who Make Ross County Home
History here isn’t confined to buildings and landmarks—it lives in our people.
Ross County is built on generational families who have farmed this land, opened businesses, served their neighbors, and passed down stories from one generation to the next. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of our community, shaping both our economy and our way of life.
We also carry deep respect for the men and women who left this community to serve our country in times of war. Many never returned the same, and some never returned at all. Their sacrifices are woven into our local history, and America 250 gives us an opportunity to honor them not just with words, but with remembrance and gratitude.
What I hope most is that America 250 strengthens what already exists here: a strong sense of community, pride in where we come from, and a genuine love for our neighbors.
Looking Ahead While Honoring the Past
America 250 isn’t just about reenactments, exhibits, or anniversaries—it’s about connection. It’s about helping younger generations understand why Ross County matters, and inviting visitors to discover that our story is, in many ways, America’s story.
My hope is that when people read this, they feel inspired—whether that means planning a visit, learning something new, or simply seeing their hometown through a renewed lens of pride. I want them to recognize that Ross County is not just a place on the map, but a living, evolving community rooted in history and moving confidently into the future.
As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, I’m proud to stand in a county where the past is honored, the present is celebrated, and the future is being shaped with intention. Ross County has always played a role in the American story—and I believe our best chapters are still ahead.
This is our moment to reflect, to celebrate, and to invite the world to find themselves here.
