7-24-2026 10:04pm

ODNR Invites Public to Explore 250 Years of American History at Independence Dam

Beth Callahan Editor

Independence Dam State Park will host a two-day-long "Walk through History" event in honor of America's 250th anniversary.

Story and photo courtesy of ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft

OHIO -- Looking for more events here in Ohio to celebrate America 250, as part of its year‑long America 250 celebration, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft will host a two‑day “Walk Through History” event at Independence Dam State Park in Defiance County, Ohio. (About 2½ hours north of Lebanon, OH.)

On August 8-9, visitors will be offered an immersive journey through America’s past—from the Revolutionary War to the modern era.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 9, featuring nearly 80 historical reenactors and educators representing periods from 1776 to the present day. Guests can explore living‑history camps, enjoy historical demonstrations and entertainment, and grab a bite to eat from on‑site food trucks.

A major highlight of the weekend will be a solemn wreath‑laying ceremony at the Fort Starvation War of 1812 memorial, taking place at noon on Saturday. The Plymouth Fife and Drum Corps will lead a procession of War of 1812 reenactors to the memorial, where the Daughters of 1812 Kentucky Chapter will offer brief remarks before placing the wreath. The ceremony will also include a bugler tribute, the National Anthem performed by local Girl Scout troops, and a scheduled flyover by a World War I-era biplane, weather permitting.

The celebration is being presented in partnership with the Friends of Independence Dam State Park, whose support and collaboration have been instrumental in bringing this regional heritage event to life. Together, organizers aim to honor northwestern Ohio’s deep frontier history as the nation marks its 250th anniversary this year.

“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, this event offers a meaningful way to reflect on the people and moments that shaped our nation,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Independence Dam is the perfect setting to honor that legacy, and we’re thrilled to invite Ohioans to experience this living history.”

“A Walk Through History” event weekend is free and open to the public, offering families, history enthusiasts, and community members a meaningful way to connect with Ohio’s past while enjoying the natural beauty of Independence Dam State Park.

Recognized as the No. 1 state park system in America with the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.