The original goal was to get more exposure for the park that is tucked away in the northern reaches in the township on Hankins Road.
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“Mainly it was just to open the cabin and encourage people to come and see what’s there,” he said. “And alongthe way spark some interest in that park…. It’s just out of the mainstream. With that cabin there we need to get the interest going, that it gets the attention it deserves.”
Stumpf said the event, that runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 7, has blossomed with partners like the township parks committee, the Fitton Center for Creative Arts in Hamilton and the YMCA’s Camp Campbell Gard. Some of the things participants can see and do include:
• Tour the 1800s Pioneer log cabin and hear about its roots from a retired teacher
• Native American dance demonstrations and games
• A traveling blacksmith will be demonstrating his craft
• Musket loading and firing
• Candle making and other souvenir take home opportunities
• Silent auction of 12 local barn paintings
Dr. Robert Kroeger, a retired Cincinnati dentist, has been painting historic barns in all 88 counties across the state and he picked a dozen from Butler County, 10 of which reside in the township. Stumpf said the minimum bid on the paintings is $275 and a portion of the sales go to the historical society.
Ian MacKenzie-Thurley, executive director of the Fitton Center, said they have made a concerted effort to reach out in the areas of the county, particularly Liberty, Fairfield and West Chester townships. In Liberty Twp., they have participated in the Easter egg roll, Fall Festival and now Heritage Day.
“It’s been a very successful partnership and we have really enjoyed the events as well and the energy and interaction with the residents in the township,” he said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to let people know all that the Fitton Center has to offer, including classes, performances, exhibitions and events and engage directly, always with hands on art activities.”
Township Trustee Christine Matacic said this event is a perfect learning opportunity for the entire township.
“I think anytime you take a look at the history of a community and you can teach and work with people on how things happened years ago, it gives you a whole different appreciation for where we are today…,” she said. “History repeats itself, by understanding the history it can help us to understand where we’re headed.”
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