Pickaway County, OH — Children from Pickaway and Ross County recently experienced a unique journey into history at the Early American Camp formally Pioneer Day Camp at Mt Oval one of Pickaway Counties oldest historical sites, where they immersed themselves in a day filled with traditional crafts, historical reenactments, and educational activities. Hosted by dedicated volunteers from the Pickaway County Historical Society, the camp aimed to teach local youth about the rich heritage of their area through engaging, hands-on experiences.
The day began with leather stamping, where each child created a personalized necklace and bracelet. This activity set the tone for a series of immersive experiences, starting with butter-making and enjoying journey cakes, traditional treats reminiscent of pioneer life. Participants also learned about pioneer soup and the art of butter-making, gaining insights into daily life from centuries past.
One highlight of the day was a session with a master gardener, who shared insights into Shawnee Indian farming practices. Children learned how Native Americans determined optimal planting times by observing natural cues like the blooming of dogwood trees. This interactive session allowed them to explore the garden, identifying crops and understanding their significance in historical diets. All while exploring land that was once part of the Shawnee nation.
Following the garden exploration, the group embarked on a scenic hike down to the river creek, where they encountered a pioneer encampment. Led by Gary Montgomery, a seasoned reenactor in authentic 1790s attire, the children learned firsthand about pioneer survival skills. Demonstrations included starting a fire with flint and steel, a technique that captivated the young audience.
A break for lunch provided an opportunity to recharge before continuing with candle dipping and exploring a historic cabin. Inside, Carrie shared the cabin’s history, offering a glimpse into pioneer life and its evolution over time. Music also played a crucial role in the day’s activities, with Pat Bethard leading a session on Shawnee songs and drum rhythms, immersing the children in cultural traditions.
Reflecting on the camp’s importance, coordinator Sandy Montgomery emphasized the value of preserving local history. “This area has a rich heritage, and it’s vital that children understand and appreciate it,” she explained. Montgomery, a retired elementary teacher, has been organizing the the Day Camp for seven years, inspired by the legacy of Ruth Talbert, who dedicated Mt Oval site to the Historical Society.
The camp, advertised through the Historical Society and word of mouth, continues to attract families eager to enrich their children’s education through immersive experiences. “It’s about giving these kids a sense of connection to their roots,” Montgomery noted. “Many of them don’t learn this in school anymore, so we’re filling that gap.”
As the day concluded with cornhusk doll-making, homemade ice cream, laughter, and learning echoed through the historical location. Parents and participants alike left with a deeper appreciation for local history and a desire to return for future adventures.
For those interested in participating in next year’s Day Camp, other camps offered or supporting its mission, please contact the Historical Society for more information.
Other volunteers possibly not mentioned that helped captivate young minds and support day camp are: Cindy Whited, Cindy Bucher, Marilyn Clifton, Connie Angles Gayle Simms, Sandy Montgomery, Fred Summers, Don Bucher, Karen and Jim Ewing Presenters were Gary Montgomery, Carolyn Seitz, Lynn Huston, and Pat Beathard.
Mount Oval is a historic farmhouse located off US-23 in Pickaway County Built in the 1830s, it was home to some of the region’s more prominent farmers, and it has been named a historic site. The first settler at the site of Mount Oval was John Boggs, who purchased the property from the U.S. government in 1806; the deed for the property was signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, at that time President of the United States and United States Secretary of State. Arriving at the property, he discovered extensive evidence of aboriginal occupation at the site: localities such as Chief Cornstalk’s Town, Camps Charlotte and Lewis, Grenadier Squaw Town, and Logan Elm were all near Boggs’ new property. Boggs remained on the property until 1832, when William Renick married Jane Boggs and built the present house. During the period that the Renicks owned Mount Oval, it became a prominent center of cattle farming.
