America 250-Ohio Creativity Trail includes local attractions
The 1928 Spillman Engineering Carousel and Wurlitzer Band Organ
In the lead-up to America’s 250th anniversary, the Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens, Historic Zoar Village, and the Carousel at Tuscora Park announced they have partnered with the America 250-Ohio Commission to be an official stop on its new Ohio Creativity Trail.
This driving trail of 108 sites across Ohio showcases Ohio’s past and present writers, musicians, artists and other creatives who made contributions to artistic expression.
It is the second of six planned experiential trails for America 250-Ohio’s signature Trails & Tales program. The Ohio Creativity Trail sites are grouped into six categories: On the Page, Music, Visual Arts, Glass & Pottery, Folk & Traditional Art, and Carousels.
Representing the carousel on the Creativity Trail is Tuscora Park, known statewide as an affordable destination to come for family fun and entertainment.
“Visitors to the park will be able to see the crown jewel of the park, the 1928 Spillman Engineering Carousel and Wurlitzer Band Organ. The park has been home to the carousel since 1941. It has undergone several restorations since then including a permanent pavilion structure for protection. The carousel includes 36 jumping horses and two chariots, hand-painted murals, and lighting. In 2016 the National Carousel Association presented the Historic Carousel Award, the 34th carousel in the nation so honored. Thousands of children, parents and grandparents enjoy carousel rides each summer from Memorial Day until Labor Day,” said Carey Gardener, RTY spokesperson and board member.
The Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens is included in the Folk and Traditional portion of the Creativity Trail. At the age of 5, Ernest “Mooney” Warther found a knife buried in mud and began to carve. For 82 years Mooney never stopped carving, except to change the knife he used. Warther’s determination, ingenuity and artistic ability led him to hand carve more than 60 works focused on the steam engine.
“The Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens is excited to be a part of the Ohio Creativity Trail. We are so thankful to the state for selecting us as a stop along this amazing and inspiring trail throughout our state of Ohio. There are so many wonderful places that are highlighted on the Creativity Trail, and it truly makes us proud to not only be one of them, but to also be an Ohioan,” said Kristen Harmon, great-granddaughter of the artists and director of the Ernest Warther Museum & Garden.
Historic Zoar Village is another stop in the Folk and Traditional portion of the Creativity Trail. Zoar Village is nestled along the former Ohio and Erie Canalway and the banks of the Tuscarawas River and stands as a testament to the folk art, craftsmanship and architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Tammi Shrum, site manager, offers this additional history about the significance of the village: “Originally founded by German immigrants in 1817, the village boasts beautifully preserved buildings that reflect the communal spirit and industriousness of its founders. Renowned for its artisanal heritage, Zoar became a popular destination for artists seeking inspiration from its unique blend of rustic charm and historical significance, making it a living gallery of craftsmanship and creativity through the ages. Its role as a hub for folk art continues to attract visitors interested in history, culture and artistic expression.”
“It’s no secret that Ohioans leave their mark on the world, whether in the form of paint on a canvas, words on a page or new artistic ways to express thoughts and ideas,” said Todd Kleismit, executive director at America 250-Ohio. “In partnership with Tuscora Park, Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens, and Historic Zoar Village, we are showcasing their great work as well as other talented artists across Ohio to generate excitement for our state’s significant contributions to the cultural fabric of America. We look forward to celebrating with these Tuscarawas County destinations throughout 2025 and 2026.”