Honoring the Legacy of Pickaway County

The Pickaway County Historical Society is committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting the history and heritage of Pickaway County through historical research, education, and community engagement.
The Preservation of Pickaway County's rich heritage dates back to July 28, 1841, when the Logan Historical Society was first organized in the village of Westfall. Efforts to establish a historical museum began in 1910 when the Monday Club raised funds for a museum, which were later transferred to the Centennial Commission. However, after the commission disbanded, no further action was taken to form a historical society.

In 1959, as Pickaway County prepared for its sesquicentennial celebration, interest in preserving local history was reignited. This led to the formation of the Pickaway County Historical Society, with a general membership meeting held on May 8, 1959, where the constitution and bylaws were officially approved.

The Pickaway County Historical Society was founded with the mission to connect individuals passionate about local history, particularly the rich heritage of Pickaway County. Recognizing that history plays a fundamental role in shaping our democratic way of life, the society aims to enhance community understanding, state pride, and appreciation of American heritage.

The society offers meeting rooms available for public use, and tours can be arranged upon request. For those interested in exploring, preserving, or learning more about Pickaway County's historical legacy, the Pickaway County Historical Society remains dedicated to preserving and celebrating the area's rich past.
Jonathan “Jeb” Bowen, Ph.D.
The Clarke-May Museum’s resident archaeologist, Jonathan “Jeb” Bowen, Ph.D., is a graduate of The Ohio State University. He is a retired professional from the Ohio History Connection, formerly known as the Ohio Historical Society, and a retired professor of Ashland University. Jeb is responsible for maintaining the Society's extensive collection of ancient artifacts. 
Our Story
Established in 1966, the Historical Society has maintained and curated historical sites such as the Clarke-May Museum and Mount Oval. Our efforts ensure that historical artifacts, documents, and stories are safeguarded for generations to come.
Officers
Kevin Driesbach
President

Robert Radcliff
1st Vice President

David Schein
2nd Vice President

Charlie Weaver
Treasurer

Denise Barthelmas
General Administration Secretary

Denise Simms Sunderland
Recording Secretary
Clarke-May Museum

Gayle Simms
Mt Oval

Darlene Weaver
Genealogical Library

Judy and David Beavers
Quarterly Editors
Board of Trustees
Terms ending 12/31/2026

Don Balthaser
Kevin Driesbach
Rich Minshall
Connie Drummond Angles
David Schein
Charlie Wiggins

Terms ending 12/31/2027

Jeb Bowen
Kevin T. Donahue
Richard Gerhardt
Jane Shaw
Charlie Weaver
Darlene Weaver

Terms ending 12/31/2028

Steve Barthelmas
Rick Hartinger
Robert Radcliff
Ellery Elick
Steve Spicer
David Winner
2026
Meeting / Event Schedule
TRUSTEE MEETING DATES
Meetings in Gen Library at 7:00pm
January 8, 2026
March 12, 2026
May 14, 2026
July 9 , 2026
September 10, 2026
November 5, 2026
Annual Meeting
November 12, 2026
@ Emmett Chapel
beginning at 5:30pm

REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS:

The regular Board Meetings are the SECOND Thursday of the designated

months, except November when it is the FIRST Thursday. The meetings begin at 7:00 pm and are held at the Genealogy Library at 210 North Court Street.

GENERAL MEETINGS:

The General Meeting for the membership are held on the THIRD Sunday of the designated month at 2:00pm. The location may vary. Trustees should attend.

  • Winter-March 15, 2026-Location to be determined
  • Spring-May 17, 2026-Location to be determined
  • Fall-September 20, 2026-Location to be determined