Commissioners dive into local lore on Historical Society tour
Ray Leisy, left, retired judge and former Wayne County Historical Society president, tells Commissioner Dave McMillen about the fire trucks on display at the historical society.
Local history is more than a collection of dates and events; it is the foundation on which the present is built. Recently, Ray Leisy, retired judge and former Wayne County Historical Society president, invited the Wayne County commissioners on a tour of the historical society buildings on East Bowman Street to learn about early life in Wayne County.
“If we don’t bother to learn and share our history, it is gone forever. Honoring people from Wayne County who have great achievements is something we must ensure we preserve,” Commissioner Dave McMillen said, representing the board on the tour. “We have Wayne County residents that have impacted the nation and the world, and they lived right here in our backyard at one time.”
Historical context informs decision-making in several key ways. It allows the commissioners to grasp long-standing issues that have affected the county such as economic tensions or environmental concerns. For example, knowing the history of land-use policies helps the commissioners understand current zoning debates or the implications of new development projects. This understanding can lead to more informed responses to the county’s needs.
Rapid change can overshadow tradition.
Understanding history enables the county commissioners to strike a balance between progress and preservation. It equips them with the knowledge to navigate complex issues thoughtfully, ensuring their governance addresses current needs while honoring the past. Ultimately, this historical awareness is beneficial and essential for fostering a vibrant community.
In the 1800s Ohio experienced a significant influx of settlers who were drawn to the fertile land and opportunities for farming and trade. Many families lived in simple log cabins. Homesteaders, relying on agriculture to sustain themselves and their families, toiled under the hot sun, cultivating crops and tending to livestock.
“For me, it is about the people and the stories about how they lived,” Leisy said. “I thought that people before the 1950s lived in squalor. But these folks had a good life, even living in a cabin. Life was harder then, but it is still hard for some people.”
Recognized for its rich agricultural heritage, Wayne County is helping to shape Ohio’s economic landscape. With a robust farming sector, rural innovation and community-minded leaders, it will continue to be a desirable location for families looking to settle and thrive.
Visit the Wayne County Historical Society online at waynehistoricalohio.org.
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.