By Carol Chroust
Clinton County was visited by glaciers in earlier ages that left rich flat rolling farm land in their wake. Attracted by opportunity and fertile soil, the settlers came early, before the turn of the 18th century. The county was formed in 1810 from parts of Highland and Warren Counties and named after the vice president of the United States, George Clinton. That same year, sixty acres near Lytle Creek were given for a county seat. Early settlers named it after their home town, Wilmington, North Carolina. Green and lush, Clinton County is the coolest and wettest county in Southern Ohio.

 
   The town square of Wilmington surrounds the massive court house built in 1918. With its marble walls and columns, ornate plasterwork and dome, it is a spectacular and impressive building. After major renovation, the court house was restored to much of it former beauty. It is well worth a walk-through and a climb up the stairs just to experience the stunning beauty and grandeur of the interior.
   On the corner of the court house lawn is the recently built Veteran’s Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to the service of all veterans of Clinton County. Pause a few minutes, sit on a bench, read the letters engraved in the wall and reflect on the sacrifices made by Clinton County veterans.
   Nearby, with its vintage marquee, is the Murphy Theatre, a downtown landmark and treasure for the community. It was built by Charles Webb Murphy, the owner of the Chicago Cubs, “during their glory years of 1906-1914”. With work done mostly by volunteers, the 750-seat theatre was restored to its original splendor and attracted a number of famous performers to its stage. The theatre has a regular season and presents outstanding community programs including the community Christmas Show. Open by appointment for tour groups. (murphytheatre.org/, phone: 937.382.3643)
   Across the street is the “Main Street Market” Mural. The mural features an indoor farmer’s market and a 1918 hot air balloon launch that actually took place on the corner of Main and Walnut Streets. The Wednesday Farmer’s Market is held under the mural during the vegetable growing season. An OSU Tailgate Party is planned for September 12th in the mural parking lot for OSU fans.
   The mural is behind the General Denver Hotel and Restaurant. The hotel was built in 1928 and was named after General James W. Denver. The lovely vintage hotel offers lodging. Open Tues-Sat for lunch 11-2, dinner 5-9 and Sunday brunch 9-2.
   A walk through the Wilmington Commercial Historic District and the Historic District on South Street is not long and the visitor can enjoy the beautiful buildings and homes. Both areas are on the National Register of Historic Places. A self-guided walking tour is available from the Clinton County Historical Society and Clinton County Visitor’s Bureau. If you enjoy walking, catch the Clinton County Rails to Trails that goes right through downtown.
   Stop in the downtown and browse through the shops, stores, galleries, photography studios, restaurants and businesses.
    The Clinton County History Center houses the Historical Society, Genealogical Library and Rombach Place Museum. It is in the former home of General James W. Denver. Denver was well-known and Denver, Colorado was named after him. The museum features, among countless other items, sculptures and paintings by world-renowned Quaker artist, Eli Harvey, a Clinton County native, and a collection of Quaker clothing dating back to 1820. Admission for non-members is $5, children under 14 are free.
   College Hall was built in 1870 by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Wilmington College has excellent theatrical productions and cultural events and a wide range of events for the public interest. One of the signature events is the fall Quaker Peace Symposium featuring nationally known public speakers. The college has a full range of outstanding athletic sports teams. (www.Wilmington.edu)
   The Oktoberfest will be held downtown on September 25-26th. It is a family oriented German fest with fun, games, rides, booths. A German style pig roast with German food sides and other choices will be on the menu. Sponsored by the local Knights of Columbus, the proceeds go to a local charity.
   Roberts Centre is known nationally for its show events. Some of the events include dog, gun, knife, antique, military shows and many others. The Southern Ohio Indoor Music Festival will be November 12-14 and will feature Bluegrass and acoustic music with award winning performers. (www.http://robertscentre.com/events)
   The Hometown Holidazzle Illuminated Parade and Festival is November 21st all day and evening and celebrates the start of the Christmas season.
   The event features thousands of lights decorating the nighttime parade. The merchants will have open house and there will be Christmas caroling, Santa Claus, games, food and strolling musicians. There will be free admission to the Murphy Theatre for the Merrytuba Concert.
   The Homespun Christmas is the first weekend in December and features many hand-crafted items.
   A unique Clinton County annual event is the Banana Split Festival. The event celebrates the Wilmington creation of the first banana split. Come and join the fun and have a banana split made just for you.
   Watch for upcoming announcements for the Clinton County/Wilmington 2010 Bicentennial celebration.
   Come to Clinton County, visit the downtown, discover the landmarks, enjoy the pastoral countryside and join us for the activities and fun.

If You Go...
Contact the Clinton County Visitor’s Bureau:
Address: 53 East Main Street, Wilmington, Ohio, 45177
Phone: 1-877-4AVISIT or 937-382-1635
Email: clintoncountyohio.com