
Celebrate Ohio’s Statehood Day with Free Admission to Chillicothe’s Historic Sites and Museums
Article presented by The Bean Foundation …
Chillicothe, OH – 3/7/2025 – On Saturday, March 7, 2026, join the Ross County community in
celebrating Ohio’s founding with a special Statehood Day event. In honor of Ohio’s Statehood,
Chillicothe’s finest museums and historic sites will open their doors free of charge for a day of
exploration, learning, and interactive experiences.
ROSS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY | Open 1pm-5pm
The Ross County Heritage Center will be open for all to explore, with volunteers and docents
spread throughout the museum to answer questions. Along with exploring our museum, visitors
will have the chance to see heritage artisans in action. People can also engage with Ohio Militia
reenactors at our Knoles Log House.
CHILLICOTHE RAILROAD MUSEUM | Open 10am-3pm
Learn about the pivotal role of trains in the development of Ross County at the Chillicothe Railroad
Museum. Explore the front caboose (built in 1975) and back caboose (built in 1927) to discover how
train crews lived and maintained operations. The first 200 visitors receive a fresh cookie!
DAVID NICKENS HERITAGE CENTER | Open 1pm-4pm
The David Nickens Heritage Center highlights Ross County’s African American history, with exhibits
on the Underground Railroad, the rise of the Black Church, and African Americans’ contributions to
Ohio’s military history.
LUCY HAYES HERITAGE CENTER | Open 10am-4pm
Visit the birthplace of First Lady Lucy Webb Hayes, wife of the 19th U.S. President. Guided tours
will be available throughout the day.
Phoenix Fire Museum | Open 11am-2pm
Stop by the Phoenix Fire Museum to explore one of the nation’s finest collections of firefighting
equipment and memorabilia and learn about the rich heritage of our community’s first responders.
ROSS COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY | Open 9am-4pm
The Ross County Genealogical Society invites individuals to stop by and explore extensive
resources that can aid in uncovering your family’s connection to the area. Get a special
membership price during Statehood Day for the remaining 4 months of the membership year (ends
June 30) for only $5.00.
This exciting event is a wonderful opportunity to dive into Ohio’s history and celebrate the state’s
heritage through its most cherished historical sites and museums.
For more information, contact participating institutions directly





























