Mount Gilead: Places, History and Recreation

Mount Gilead can be explored through its two public squares and the historic sites associated with them. Both squares still exist today. The Morrow County Historical Society History Center is at the southwest corner of Mount Gilead Square; the Victory Shaft stands in the middle of North Square. The townscape thus offers two different ways to experience history: an exhibition venue and a monument in one of the squares. This distinction is helpful when planning your trip, since the conditions for visiting each are not the same.

Historic Sites in Mount Gilead

The Victory Shaft is on view as a permanent exhibit at the History Center. A visit there complements a view of the monument in the middle of North Square: you encounter the Victory Shaft in an exhibition setting and as part of a public square. The History Center is open Sundays from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., from April through November. As the hours are seasonal, it is advisable to check the schedule before your visit.

The Cross House has a different focus. Built in 1829, it is the last of five timber-frame houses from that period still standing in Mount Gilead. The house contains furnishings dating from the late 19th century through 1930. This offers a tangible sense of the relationship between the house's construction date and the later periods represented by its furnishings. The Cross House is open for special events, celebrations and by appointment. You can therefore visit during a special event or celebration, or by arranging an appointment.

Events and Local History

Another historic building is the Garverick Log House at the Morrow County Fairgrounds in Mount Gilead. It offers a glimpse of the 1830s. It is open during Morrow County Farm Days, which take place annually on the first full weekend in August. If you would like to plan a visit to the Log House, time your trip to coincide with this period and check the dates for your preferred year.

The Morrow County Fair in Mount Gilead is described as a family tradition. Its invitation is for people who would like to exhibit, take part or attend the event. The program may vary from year to year, so check the dates and offerings before traveling to the Fair.

Recreation in Town and Nearby

For active recreation, Mount Gilead Recreation Center also has a large swimming pool as well as basketball and tennis courts. Mount Gilead State Park, east of town on Route 95, has six multi-use trails for hiking and running, including an equestrian trail. You can choose an activity to suit your interests: swimming or court sports at the Recreation Center, or hiking, running or horseback riding on one of the park trails. Check current park information for trail availability before setting out.

For the broader travel overview: Morrow County.