Ross County Historical Society
Franklin House Open House

Chillicothe, Ohio – September 14, 2024 – 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
We are pleased to announce that the Ross County Historical Society is having an Open House for the Franklin House Museum located at 80 S. Paint Street in Chillicothe, Ohio. We have partnered with Ohio History Connection’s Ohio Open Doors, a statewide biennial event designed to give building and landmark owners an opportunity to showcase their history and provide special tours for the community.
Designed by architect Frank Packard of Columbus, Ohio, the Franklin House was built for three siblings, Elizabeth, Charles and Marianne Franklin in 1907. All three lived in this house for the rest of their lives. Ms. Marianne Franklin remained in the house until her death in 1971 at the age of 92. She was a trustee of the Ross County Historical Society and made them one of the beneficiaries of her estate. In 1972, Mrs. Estelle McKell, a member of the Ross County Historical Society, purchased the house and donated it to the Ross County Historical Society with the intent that it would be used to “recognize and publicize the pioneer women who contributed so greatly to developing Chillicothe and Ross County.”