Murder Mystery CLUE at Brownella Cottage
The Brownella Cottage will transform into a real-life game board this May as the Galion History Center presents an immersive Murder Mystery CLUE experience inside one of Ohio’s most intriguing historic homes.
On Saturday, May 9, guests will step into a live action version of the classic board game, where nothing is quite as it seems. Set within the historic home of Bishop William Montgomery Brown and Ella Brown, the mystery begins with a fictional dinner gathering hosted by Bishop Brown, bringing together notable Galion figures from the past. Before the evening can unfold, the caretaker is found dead, leaving the Brown’s and their dinner guests under suspicion.
Participants become the detectives.
Guests will move through the rooms of Brownella Cottage, encountering six suspects, uncovering clues, and piecing together what happened that night. Each player receives an investigative kit and flashlights to assist in solving the crime as they navigate the house in the dark, adding an extra layer of suspense to the experience.
Event Details:
Saturday, May 9
Game times at 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Tickets are $20 per player
This is a family-friendly activity -recommended for ages 10 and up
Tickets are available online.
This one-night event is expected to sell quickly. Guests are encouraged to reserve their spot early and prepare for an unforgettable evening of mystery, history, and intrigue.
Summer Sound Baths at Brownella Cottage
🌸 Summer Sound Baths at Brownella Cottage 🌸
Step into stillness this Summer at the beautiful Brownella Cottage. Join us for a deeply relaxing sound bath experience designed to calm the mind, reset the nervous system, and leave you feeling refreshed and restored.
Led by Desiree Hanning, each session invites you to simply lie back and receive the soothing vibrations of sound in one of Galion’s most peaceful historic spaces.
✨ Session Dates:
• May 20th at 6:00 p.m.
June 7th at 4:00 p.m.
🎟 Tickets: $20 per person
⚠️ Space is limited!
What to bring:
• Yoga mat or blanket
• Pillow for comfort
• A drink in a closed container
Whether you’re new to sound baths or a seasoned attendee, this is the perfect way to welcome the Summer season with intention and calm.
👉 Reserve your spot and treat yourself to an hour of deep rest.
Barber Shop Exhibit Unveiling and Special Presentation by Dr. Margaret Sumner!
The Galion History Center invites the community to a special evening celebrating local history, culture, and connection with the unveiling of our newest exhibit: Galion Barbershops.
Join us on Friday, May 29 at 6:00 p.m. for a featured presentation by Dr. Margaret Sumner of The Ohio State University at Marion, titled:
“Cutting Hair & Creating Culture: How Black Barbers Forged Political & Social Networks in Early Galion.”
This engaging talk will explore the vital role barbershops played in shaping community life—far beyond haircuts. In early Galion, Black barbers created spaces that fostered conversation, influence, and connection, helping to build powerful social and political networks within the town.
Dr. Sumner’s presentation will take place inside the Historic Grace Church at 6:00 p.m., followed by the official opening of the exhibit at the Galion History Museum.
This event is part of our ongoing participation in America 250, highlighting the local stories that contribute to our nation’s history.
Admission is donation-based, and all are welcome.
Come experience an evening where history comes to life—through stories of community, culture, and the spaces that brought people together.
1976 Bicentennial Time Capsule Opening Ceremony & Community Picnic
As excitement builds for the opening of Galion’s Bicentennial Time Capsule, the Galion History Center is pleased to share important details about this once-in-a-generation event.
Originally buried in 1976 by the Galion Lions Club as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebration, the time capsule has remained sealed for nearly 50 years. While the Lions Club is no longer active in Galion, the Galion History Center is honored to lead the retrieval and public opening—bringing the community together to rediscover this remarkable piece of local history.
This is no ordinary time capsule. The capsule is an eight-foot burial vault, similar to those used in cemeteries. Due to its size and the specialized process required to open it, the vault will be carefully retrieved in advance of the July 4 ceremony. Once removed, experts at Longstreth Memorials will oversee the unsealing process.
Retrieving the capsule ahead of time allows the History Center to properly document, preserve, and organize its contents in preparation for the public unveiling.
Inside, the capsule holds several hundred “community envelopes.” In 1976, Galion residents placed photographs, letters, and small personal items inside, with the hope that they would be returned to their families 50 years later.
Following retrieval, the Galion History Center will compile and release a master list of names found on the envelopes so community members can determine if they have items waiting to be reclaimed.
During the Time Capsule Opening Ceremony on Saturday, July 4 at 12:00 p.m. in Heise Park, families will have the opportunity to begin retrieving their envelopes and reconnecting with these deeply personal pieces of Galion’s past. The History Center plans to return all labeled items that are in a condition to be safely preserved and shared.
More details about the ceremony and the envelope return process will be announced as the event approaches.
Join us as we open the past - together.
TIME CAPSULE OPENING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who buried the time capsule?
The time capsule was buried in 1976 by the Galion Lions Club as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration. While the Lions Club is no longer active in Galion, the Galion History Center is honored to oversee the retrieval and opening so the community can experience this historic moment together.
Where is the time capsule located?
The capsule is buried in Heise Park in Galion near the Gill Ave. entrance. The public opening ceremony and community picnic will take place there on July 4, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.
Why is the time capsule being removed before July 4?
The capsule is not a small container- it is actually an eight-foot burial vault, similar to those used in cemeteries. Because of its size and the specialized process required to open it, the vault must be carefully excavated and transported prior to July 4.
Professionals at Longstreth Memorials will assist with safely unsealing the vault. Retrieving it early will also allow the History Center time to document, organize, and assess the contents before the public ceremony and allow us to create a master list of community envelopes for return to families following the ceremony.
What is inside the time capsule?
The capsule contains a wide variety of items from 1976, including community memorabilia and several hundred “community envelopes.”
These envelopes were filled by Galion residents with items such as:
Photographs
Letters
Small personal keepsakes
They were placed in the capsule with the intention that they would be returned to families 50 years later.
Will families be able to get their envelopes back?
Yes. The Galion History Center plans to return all labeled items that are in a condition to be safely returned.
Following the opening ceremony on July 4, families will have the opportunity to reclaim their envelopes.
What if the person who placed the envelope in the capsule has passed away?
Family members may claim envelopes on behalf of relatives who originally placed them in the capsule.
What happens if an envelope is damaged?
Because the capsule has been underground for nearly 50 years, some items may have experienced wear or deterioration. The History Center will carefully assess the contents and do its best to preserve and return items whenever possible. The Galion History Center will release a statement on the condition of the items once it the time capsule has been opened.
What should I bring to the event?
This will be a community picnic and ceremony! Guests are encouraged to bring:
Blankets or lawn chairs
A picnic lunch – or grab food from the Pickle Run Festival!
Their curiosity about what Galion residents placed in the capsule in 1976
Will the contents of the capsule be displayed?
Yes! The Galion History Center plans to document and share many of the items discovered in the capsule. Some materials may also become part of future exhibits.
Where can I find updates?
Follow the Galion History Center on social media or visit galionhistory.com for updates as we get closer to the opening ceremony.
On the Move: Transporation Texts at the Annex Museum
🚗📱 On the Move: Transportation Texts
What if our transportation artifacts could text you their stories?
In honor of the America 250 theme of Transportation, the Annex Museum is opening its doors for a special experience. During On the Move: Transportation Texts, visitors will discover what happens when historic vehicles and tools “slide into your messages” with stories from Galion’s transportation past.
Explore the Annex at your own pace and uncover the voices behind some of our most fascinating artifacts — from powerful steam equipment to horse-drawn vehicles — each with something to say about how our community kept moving.
🗓 Dates: April 9 and April 21
🕕 Time: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
💵 Admission: Donation only
Perfect for curious kids, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a fresh twist on local history.
Come see what our artifacts have been dying to text you about.
Spring Sound Baths at Brownella Cottage
🌸 Spring Sound Baths at Brownella Cottage 🌸
Step into stillness this spring at the beautiful Brownella Cottage. As the season of renewal begins, join us for a deeply relaxing sound bath experience designed to calm the mind, reset the nervous system, and leave you feeling refreshed and restored.
Led by Desiree Hanning, each session invites you to simply lie back and receive the soothing vibrations of sound in one of Galion’s most peaceful historic spaces.
✨ Session Dates:
• March 29 at 4:00 p.m.
• April 10 at 6:00 p.m.
• April 19 at 4:00 p.m.
🎟 Tickets: $20 per person
⚠️ Space is limited!
What to bring:
• Yoga mat or blanket
• Pillow for comfort
• A drink in a closed container
Whether you’re new to sound baths or a seasoned attendee, this is the perfect way to welcome the spring season with intention and calm.
👉 Reserve your spot and treat yourself to an hour of deep rest.
The Great Brownella Easter Egg Hunt
The hunt is on!
Join the Galion History Center for The Great Brownella Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28 from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Brownella Cottage!
Search for the large eggs hidden throughout the Cottage - this is scavenger hunt style - no baskets needed!
Meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny - he's probably got a special egg for you!
Admission is donation only!
We hope to see you there for a fun-filled afternoon of Easter fun!
Brownella is located at 132 S. Union St. Galion, OH.
Questions? Call (419) 468-9338 or shoot us an email at galionhistory@gmail.com
America 250 Kick-Off at The Hub in Crestline
America 250 Crawford County Kickoff Celebration
Join the Crawford County History Alliance as we launch America 250 with a county-wide kickoff celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States and Ohio’s 223rd birthday!
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026
Time: 2:00–4:00 PM
Location: The Hub in Crestline
Suggested Donation: $5
This family-friendly event brings together all 14 member organizations of the Crawford County History Alliance, each featuring a table display highlighting local history and community stories. Guests can pick up their America 250 Crawford County History Passport, a special guide to exploring historic sites, programs, and events throughout this milestone anniversary year.
Celebrate with historical character appearances, live music, and patriotic birthday cake, and enjoy interactive exhibits and activities for all ages.
Featured Exhibitors Include:
Citizen to Patriot Group & Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Exhibits
Castle Coin Company – 250 Years of U.S. Coins
Cabin at Willow Hollow – Revolutionary-era items for sale
Bucyrus Public Library – Story Walk featuring Liberty Tree
Come celebrate America’s past, connect with local history organizations, and kick off a year of meaningful programming across Crawford County. This is your chance to discover how our community fits into the broader American story—past, present, and future
Brownella Lights Tours with Santa!
Wednesday, December 17 & Thursday, December 18 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Admission: Donation Only | Self-Guided Tours
Step into the holiday magic of Brownella Cottage! Each December, the historic home glows with the light of dozens of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, filling every room with sparkle and cheer.
Enjoy a self-guided evening tour by twinkling light as you take in the sights, sounds, and scents of a Victorian Christmas. Santa will be on hand both nights to greet visitors and spread holiday joy throughout the cottage.
Bring your family, your friends, and your holiday spirit for one of Galion’s most charming Christmas traditions — Brownella Lights Tours with Santa!
Brownella Cottage Holiday Cookie & Cocktail Pairing Tours
Step back into a Victorian Christmas wonderland at the Galion History Center’s Christmas Cookie & Cocktail Tours, taking place Friday, December 12th at Brownella Cottage, 132 S. Union Street. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening of sweet indulgence, featuring holiday cocktails paired with freshly baked Christmas cookies, all set within the enchanting rooms of one of Galion’s most beloved historic homes.
Tours will be offered at 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 p.m., with each time slot limited to provide a cozy and personalized experience. As visitors stroll through the beautifully decorated cottage, they’ll be treated to the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season - complete with twinkling lights, festive music, and a touch of Victorian holiday magic.
This event blends two great holiday traditions, cookies and cocktails, with the rich history of Brownella Cottage. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season while supporting local preservation!
Tickets are $25 per person and availability is limited, and early reservations are strongly encouraged.
Come raise a glass to history, community, and Christmas cheer. Brownella Cottage is waiting to welcome you.
GET TICKETS HERE:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/holiday-cookie-and-cocktail-pairing-tours-at-brownella-cottage
Brownella Cottage Annual Holiday Open House
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Brownella Cottage – 132 S. Union St., Galion, OH
Free Admission
Step into the holiday spirit at our Annual Holiday Open House! Each December, Brownella Cottage is dressed in its Christmas best, welcoming the community to experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas.
Enjoy a self-guided tour through the festively decorated home and explore the Galion History Museum & Gift Shop in the Brownella Carriage House, open during the event with unique history themed gifts and local treasures.
The Friends of the Big Four Depot will also be selling Christmas cards in the Bishop’s Study—perfect for adding a touch of Galion history to your holiday greetings.
This free community event is held in conjunction with the “Come Home to Galion” Christmas festival. Stop by, take in the sights, and celebrate the season surrounded by history, tradition, and holiday cheer!
Halloween 1937: The Last Rites
Halloween 1937: The Last Rites
Brownella Cottage Paranormal Investigation
132 S. Union St., Galion, Ohio
On Halloween night, 1937, Bishop William Montgomery Brown drew his final breath inside the shadowed rooms of Brownella Cottage. Local legend says the Bishop never truly left. This All Hallows’ Eve, step into the home where history lingers, and spirits stir, for a chilling night of history, hauntings, and the unknown.
Event Schedule
8:00 p.m. – Check-In & History Tour
Begin your evening with a guided walk through Brownella Cottage. Hear the story of the controversial Bishop, his infamous trial, and the Halloween night that sealed his fate.9:00 p.m. – The Final Drink (Ages 21+)
At the end of his life, Bishop Brown was comforted with a mixture of orange juice and whiskey. Join us in raising a glass to the Bishop’s last drink—an eerie ritual to begin the night’s investigation.9:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. – Paranormal Investigation
Explore the darkened halls of Brownella Cottage on your own! From the Bishop’s bedroom, where he passed on Halloween night, to the Historic Grace Church where he started his infamous career, you’ll have the chance to seek out the unexplained in multiple locations on the Brownella Cottage Complex.
Details
Space is limited for the integrity of the investigation.
$50 per person – Ticket Sales begin Friday, September 26th at www.galionhistory.com/events
Ages 13 and over only.
Limited investigative equipment is available for rent with your purchase while supplies last!
Will you dare to join the Bishop on the night he never left?
KIDS Trick-Or-Treat After Dark
🎃 Kids Trick-or-Treat After Dark at Brownella Cottage! 🍬✨
Bring your little ghouls and goblins to Brownella Cottage for a night of Halloween fun they won’t forget! Join us on Saturday, October 25th for our family-friendly Trick-or-Treat After Dark event.
🕰 Event Time: 7:00-9:00 p.m. (come anytime during event hours!)
Kids will enjoy a spooky (but not scary!) evening exploring Brownella Cottage and visiting multiple trick-or-treat stations throughout the historic home! Décor is spooky – not scary!
🧛 Costumes encouraged for kids AND grown-ups!
👻 Perfect for ages 12 & under but any age is welcome!
📍 Location: 132 S. Union St., Galion, OH
Make this Halloween magical! Join us for a sweet night of treats, giggles, and just a dash of spooky fun!
Adult Trick-Or-Treat: Cocktail and Candy Pairing Tours at Brownella Cottage!
🎃 Adult Trick-or-Treat is BACK at Brownella Cottage! 🍬🍸
Why should the kids have all the Halloween fun? Join us at Brownella Cottage for TWO nights of spooky delights at our Adult Trick-or-Treat Cocktail & Candy Pairing Tours on Friday, October 17th & Saturday, October 18th!
🕰 Tour Times: 7:00 • 8:00 • 9:00 p.m.
🎟 Tickets: $25 per person
🎟 On Sale: Friday, September 19th at 10:00 a.m. at www.galionhistory.com/shop
Explore Brownella Cottage at your own pace while sipping on 4 frightfully fun Halloween cocktails, each perfectly paired with a classic halloween candy to satisfy your sweet tooth.
👻 Ages 21+ only
🎭 Costumes or Halloween-themed attire are highly encouraged!
📍 Location: 132 S. Union St., Galion, OH
Spots vanish faster than a ghost—so mark your calendars, gather your ghoulish crew, and get ready for a hauntingly good time!
Questions? Call us at 419-468-9338 or email galionhistory@gmail.com.
**Please note the Saturday, October 18th event will coincide with the Magical Moon Witches Market on the Brownella Lawn from 4:00-9:00 p.m.
4th Annual Women of Galion Purse Bingo
🎉 Join Us for Our 2025 Purse Bingo Fundraiser! 🎉
Saturday, August 16th, 2025
📍 St. Joe’s Activity Center | 115 N. Liberty St., Galion, OH
🕚 Doors open at 11:00 AM | Bingo starts at Noon
Get ready for our biggest fundraiser of the year! Purse Bingo is back and better than ever as we celebrate 70 years of community impact. Enjoy an afternoon of fun with:
✨ 14 rounds of Bingo
👜 Brand-new designer purses from Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and Lululemon — each named in honor of a remarkable woman from the Galion History Center
🎟️ Raffles & 50/50 Drawing
🧀 Charcuterie, snacks, & cash bar
🎶 Music, laughter, and good company!
🎟️ Tickets:
Full Table (8 tickets): $400
Half Table (4 tickets): $200
Tickets go on sale Friday, July 11th at 10:00 a.m. on our website!
Reserve your spot early — this event sells out fast! Come celebrate Galion’s history and support our mission in style. 💼💃
*In the event that full tables sell out - 2 half tables can be purchased together to make a full table. Any half tables that come through on the same order will be seated together under the purchaser’s name!
If you have any questions about this event please call our office at 419-468-9338 or email us a galionhistory@gmail.com
2025 Purse Gallery!
August Community Garage Sale
August Community Garage Sale & Flea Market
📅 August 7–9 | 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
📍 200 W. Walnut St., Old Middle School Lot, Galion, Ohio
Join us for Galion’s biggest summer shopping event! Whether you're hunting for unique finds, antiques, or local produce—or just love the thrill of a good bargain—you won’t want to miss it.
Event Highlights
🛍️ Vendors selling new items, antiques, crafts, and produce
🚚 Food trucks on-site
💰 Affordable vendor spots (cash only, paid day of)
🛤️ Held during the Lincoln Highway Buy-Way Sale
🎯 Proceeds benefit the Galion History Center
Vendor Information
Set-Up: Wednesday, August 6 at 5:00 p.m.
Cost:
Single vehicle: $10/day
Vehicle & trailer: $15/day
Save $5 if you set up all 3 days!
Spots: First-come, first-served until full
Supplies: Vendors must bring their own tables and canopies
Contact
For more details, contact GHC Board Member:
📞 Dustin McMillen – 419-564-7561
Come shop, sell, and support local history while enjoying one of Galion’s favorite community events!
70th Anniversary Block Party!
You're Invited to the Galion History Center's 70th Anniversary Block Party!
Saturday, June 21st
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Brownella Cottage – 132 S. Union St., Galion, OH
Come celebrate 70 years of preserving and sharing Galion’s rich history with a fun-filled block party for the whole community!
What to Expect:
Brownella Cottage will be open for visitors to explore our brand new summer exhibit, featuring Ella Scranton Bradford’s never-before-seen diary — a unique and intimate glimpse into Galion’s past!
Grab a bite from two delicious local food trucks: The Messy Bun and KC Delights!!
DJ Marcia Yunker will keep the party going with great music
Free cake for everyone (while supplies last!)
Bounce house fun for the kids on the North lawn
The Galion History Museum & Gift Shop will also be open in the Brownella Carriage House.
Bring your family, bring your friends, and help us celebrate this exciting milestone with food, fun, music, and history!
FREE & open to the public!
70s Murder Mystery CLUE at Brownella Cottage
Imagine stepping into the halls of Brownella Cottage, the lights off, the scent of old books and polished wood lingering in the air as night descends. But tonight, it's not just a historic home - it's the scene of a murder mystery pulled straight from a 1970s Galion whodunit.
You're not just a guest. You’re a detective, moving from room to room in a live-action version of the classic CLUE board game, where the suspects aren’t Miss Scarlet or Colonel Mustard—they’re real figures from Galion's past, brought to life in 70’s garb!
In the parlor, you might encounter Dr. Bernard Mansfield, the town’s respected (and slightly mysterious) physician, sipping brandy and dodging questions about where he was during the crime. In the library, Mim Sayre, a fiery English teacher a with a sharp tongue and a sharper pen, might hint at knowing more than she’s saying. Every corner of the house, once the home of Bishop William Montgomery Brown, has become a potential crime scene: the study, the dining room, even the kitchen, each filled with clues, red herrings, and the occasional blood-stained candlestick.
The year is 1976, and the town is abuzz with talk of murder at the Brownella Cottage estate. Miriam Sayre was hosting a dinner party at her home when she offered her guests an exclusive late-night tour of the allegedly haunted Brownella Cottage. An old friend of Bishop Brown, Miriam had arranged a tour with the current caretaker of the empty estate. They wandered the rooms with giggles and gasps, candles flickering as Dr. Mansfield reads from a book of the Bishop’s heretical writings. Martha Wheatcraft claimed to hear footsteps upstairs. Jack Arlen swore he saw a face in the mirror…
Then - the lights flickered. A sharp, shrill scream cut through the laughter. The care taker is dead and someone in the group is the killer.
Was it the suspiciously polished and put-together female politician in the solarium with a letter opener? Or the beloved GHS Band Director in the garden with a wrench?
Brownella Cottage, with its antique furniture and creaking floors, becomes a character itself—an atmospheric backdrop that adds an eerie authenticity to the game. It’s murder mystery meets interactive history, a time-traveling, spine-tingling night where Galion’s past comes alive—and someone might not make it out.
Would you play?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tickets are $20 per player! Tickets go on sale on Friday, May 2nd at 10:00 a.m.
Brownella Cottage - 132 S. Union St.
This event will start at the Historic Grace Church directly across the street from Brownella Cottage! Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the start of the game. Ages 10+
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Tickets for this event are non-refundable. If you cannot make the event for any reason your admission remains a donation to the Galion History Center.
Private Investigations at Brownella Cottage
Private Investigations of Brownella Cottage happen on select Friday and Saturday evenings each year. All private investigations run from 8:00 p.m. til Midnight. Groups attending a private investigation have a max limit of 10 people.
These dates are determined by times that we can have staff or volunteers present during investigations and times that do not interfere with Galion History Center events. Please do not email us about dates that are not listed as available.
PRICING:
Private Investigation cost $50 per person. The Galion History Center requires a minimum fee of $250 for groups under 5 people. This $250 fee is due at check-out to secure your date. If your group is larger than 5 people the Galion History Center will invoice you the remainder of your payment. This must be paid 2 weeks prior to your investigation.
EXPECTATIONS/RULES:
Private Investigations are geared toward experienced investigators. Groups are expected to bring their own investigative equipment. A brief history tour is available before or after your investigation - depending on your group’s personal preference. Brownella Cottage is filled with the Brown family’s original furniture therefore our staff and volunteers will expect groups to treat the home and its belongings respectfully. Ouija boards/seances/and provocation are strictly prohibited.
Questions/More info: galionhistory@gmail.com
Public Ghost Hunt at Brownella Cottage
Brownella Cottage Public Ghost Hunts are perfect for those that are curious about the paranormal at Brownella Cottage but aren't yet ready to commit to a private investigation! Public Ghost Hunts last from 8:00 p.m. -1:00 a.m. and guests can investigate Brownella Cottage, the Galion History Museum (located in the Carriage House), and the Historic Grace Church. Tickets are $35.00 per person.
Public Ghost Hunts begin with a brief history of Brownella Cottage and the Brown family. The Cottage is filled entirely with the Brown family's original furniture therefore our staff and volunteers will expect groups to treat the home and it's belongings with respect. Ouija boards/seances/provocation are strictly prohibited during the session.
We strive to keep our public ghost hunts small so that you get as private of an experience as possible. Tickets are limited to 20 people per session with 3 buildings for groups to spread out while investigating.
No paranormal investigating equipment? No problem! We have a limited number of beginner-friendly kits for rent that include a K2 (EMF) reader, divining rods, light balls, and flashlight for you or your group to use for the duration of your session. This kits are $10 and can be added to your online purchase while supplies last.
Brownella Cottage is located at 132 S. Union St. Galion, OH 44833
If you have any questions about this event please contact us at 419-468-9338 or galionhistory@gmail.com
70th Anniversary Donor Campaign
This year marks an extraordinary milestone for the Galion History Center as we celebrate our 70th anniversary of preserving and promoting the history of Galion and its surrounding areas. Originally established as the Galion Historical Society, led by Dr. Bernard Mansfield and many other caring citizens, our organization has grown and evolved, but our mission remains steadfast: to honor the past, enrich the present, and inspire the future. As we reflect on our journey, we are reminded that our success has always been rooted in the generosity and support of individuals, businesses, and organizations like yours. Today, we invite you to be part of our annual appeal to ensure that we can continue sharing Galion’s rich history with our community and beyond.
Your support directly impacts our ability to:
Educate and Inspire: By welcoming locals and guests to our four historical buildings, we offer a glimpse into Galion’s unique past. Our efforts extend to local schools, where we provide field trips that engage students with hands-on history lessons, fostering curiosity and learning.
Enrich Community Life: Through recent initiatives like our Prohibition Galion walking tours in Uptowne Galion and Murder Mystery CLUE at Brownella Cottage, we strive to bring history to life and explore the people and stories that shaped our city.
Create Memorable Experiences: From book signings and museum exhibits, as well as interactive programs that bring history to life, like our seasonal cocktail pairing tours and kids Trick-Or-Treat After Dark, we create opportunities for community members of all ages to connect with history in fun and meaningful ways.
Your contribution will help us sustain these efforts and expand our programs. History is not just about preserving artifacts—it’s about connecting generations, understanding our roots, and envisioning a brighter future built on the lessons of the past. By supporting the Galion History Center, you become a part of this important work. Your generosity ensures that we can continue to provide educational opportunities, preserve our historical sites, and enrich the cultural life of our community for years to come. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to our annual appeal. Donations can be made by visiting our website www.galionhistory.com/donations, mailing a check or cash in the provided envelope, or calling our office at (419) 468-9338.
Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference. Thank you for your commitment to preserving the history that makes Galion so special. Together, we can ensure that the stories of our past continue to inspire generations to come.
Donor Tiers
Promoter - $5-$50
Preservationist - $51-$100
Educator - $101-$150
Archivist - $151-$200
Historian - $200 +
Visionary - $500 +
4th Annual Holiday Cookie & Cocktail Pairing Tours at Brownella Cottage
The Galion History Center is excited to host its 4th Annual Holiday Cookie & Cocktail Pairing Tours at Brownella Cottage! Tours will be held Friday, December 13th at 6:00, 7:00, & 8:00 p.m. Guests will take a self-guided tour of Brownella Cottage and find 4 cocktail and cookie pairing stations along the way! Tickets are $25 per person and will go on sale on Friday, November 15th on our website under the shop tab!
The 2024 Pairing List will be posted soon!
Brownella Cottage is located at 132 S. Union St. in Galion, Ohio. The home was built as wedding present for Bishop William Montgomery Brown and his wife Ella in 1887. The Cottage remains filled with their original furniture and is a time capsule of Victorian era life in Galion. Don’t miss this unique seasonal tour!
If you have any questions regarding our Holiday Cookie & Cocktail Pairing Tours call our office at (419) 468-9338 or shoot us an email at galionhistory@gmail.com!
Brownella Cottage Annual Holiday Open House
The Galion History Center’s Annual Holiday Open House at Brownella Cottage will be Saturday, December 7th from 1:00-4:00 p.m. during the community wide Come Home to Galion holiday event!
The Brownella Cottage main level and the Galion History Museum & Gift Shop will be open for visitors free of charge! Don’t miss seeing Brownella Cottage decorated for the holidays!
Halloween Night Ghost Tour at Brownella Cottage
Join at Brownella Cottage for a tour full of spooky stories, metaphysical experiences, and paranormal encounters! Brownella Cottage Ghost Tours are highly interactive tours that let you experience the paranormal and learn about the history of the historic Brownella Cottage! Ages 12+ are welcome to join in on the fun! Our Halloween night ghost tour will happen Thursday, October 31st @ 8:00 p.m.! Tickets are $20 per person and go on sale on our website Friday, September 27th at 10:00 a.m. ! Ticketing can be found under the “Shop” tab!
Space on our Ghost Tours are limited and tend to sell out!
Comfy shoes are a must as our tours entail a lot of walking and several sets of staircases!
Brownella Cottage Trick-Or-Treat AFTER DARK!
We are changing up our annual Trick-Or-Treat event at Brownella Cottage this year! This year we are hosting our first ever Trick-Or-Treat After Dark!
Safety is our first priority and we will have several volunteer crossing guards to help families that may need to cross the street to get to the Brownella Cottage grounds!
Trick-Or-Treaters will take a short walk through the main floor of Brownella Cottage as volunteers pass out candy! All decor is spooky- not scary!
In the event of severe inclement weather - we will open up during the community Trick-Or-Treat hours the following day on Sunday, October 27th from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Brownella Cottage Adult Trick-Or-Treat - Cocktail & Candy Pairing Tours
Don't let the kids have all the Halloween fun! Join us at Brownella Cottage for an Adult Trick-Or-Treat cocktail and candy pairing tours on Friday, October 18th! Tours start at 7:00 - 8:00 - & 9:00 p.m. that evening!
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets will go on sale on Friday, September 27th at 10:00 a.m. on our website: www.galionhistory.com/shop
Tours are self guided and will feature 4 Halloween cocktail and candy pairing stations!
This event is strictly for ages 21+
Halloween costumes or Halloween themed attire is strongly encouraged!
Brownella Cottage is located at 132 S. Union St. Galion, OH
If you have any questions about this event, please reach out to us at 419-468-9338 or email us at galionhistory@gmail.com!
3rd Annual Women of Galion Purse Bingo & Brunch
Join us for a Purse Bingo and Brunch honoring women from Galion history on Saturday, September 14th!
Venue: St. Joe's Activity Center (115 N. Liberty St.) Doors open at 10:30 a.m.
Tickets go on sale on Friday, August 16th at 10:00 a.m. at: www.galionhistory.com/shop
*Tickets must be purchased online*
Set a reminder! This event sells out very quickly!
Guests must be 18+
Half Table - 4 seats -$150
Full Table - 8 seats - $300
This year's event will include 14 rounds of bingo for designer purses from Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Lululemon, and more! We will have a Brunch/Charcuterie grazing table and a Mimosa and Bloody Mary cash bar! Non-alcoholic drinks will also be available. Each ticket will include on bingo book but extras will be available for purchase for extra chances to win! Please plan to bring cash for raffles, pull tabs, and more!
If you have any questions about this event please reach out to Tanesha Pickering at 419-468-9338 or galionhistory@gmail.com
"Nazi War Trophies: Confiscated & Looted" Presentation and Exhibit Unveiling
The Galion History Center has been pleased to host OSU-Marion student, Micah Harris, as an intern during the 2024 summer season. Micah Harris studies Eastern History at the OSU - Marion campus and has a special interest in WWII. Micah has spent his time at the Galion History Center exploring their WWII collection and helping archive with GHC Curator, Keily Cunningham.
Micah Harris will present his summer project and unveil a new exhibit in the Galion History Museum -"German War Trophies: Confiscated and Looted" that will be open to the public in late July. The exhibit explores the subject of war trophies in the context of WWII and displays Nazi war trophies such as flags, banners, pins, badges, textiles, weapons, and more brought home by Crawford County WWII Veterans Francis Frye and Robert Christman.
The presentation will take place on Tuesday, July 23rd at 4:00 p.m. at the Historic Grace Church (130 W. Walnut St. Galion.) After the presentation the Galion History Museum located in the Brownella Cottage Carriage House will be open to unveil the new exhibit to the public for the first time!
The Galion History Center would like to thank the families of Francis Frye and Robert Christman for loaning items to this exhibit!
The presentation and exhibit unveiling on July 23rd is free and open to the public!
Breweries, Bootleggers, and Buggy Whips: Galion During Prohibition Uptowne Walking Tours
Take a step back into Prohibition Era Galion! This walking tour will start at the Women’s Christian Temperance Union Drinking Fountain (200 W. Walnut St.) located on the old middle school lot and will continue through the uptowne Galion as you learn about the Temperance Movement, Carrie Nation, saloon locations, the 19th Amendment, bootleggers, dry agents, and so much more!
Tickets: $10
Purchase at www.galionhistory.com/shop
Parking is available at the Galion History Center in the Grace Church Parking lot.
This tour is approximately a half mile and will end at the 123 Pub House or the Galion Community Theatre depending on the date of you tour. Please dress for the summer weather and walking!
Tickets must be purchased online and in advance! In efforts to keep our groups at a manageable and enjoyable size, no walk ups will be allowed.
Summer Open Hours
Brownella Cottage and the Hayden Helfrich Annex will be open on select Thurdays from 6:00- 8:00 p.m. during the Summer 2024 Season! Please remember that private tours can be scheduled through our office at 419-468-9338 or by sending us an email at galionhistory@gmail.com. We highly encourage that private tours are scheduled in advance as same-day tour scheduling cannot be guaranteed!
BROWNELLA COTTAGE & MUSEUM DATES:
June 13th • 6:00- 8:00 p.m.
July 11th • 6:00- 8:00 p.m.
August 8th • 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
HAYDEN-HELFRICH ANNEX DATES:
June 20th • 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
July 25th • 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
August 22nd • 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Blackout Block Party at Brownella Cottage
A historic total eclipse is coming to Ohio on April 8th, 2024 and Galion is in the Path of Totality! The Galion History Center is excited to host a Blackout Block Party in honor of this rare solar event featuring viewing, tours, vendors, food, music, and more!
VIEWING
Viewing for the eclipse will be available on the Historic Union Schoolyard from the start of the event through the duration of the eclipse from 11:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket! GHC will not allow parking on the school lot.
BROWNELLA COTTAGE
Brownella Cottage (main level) and the Galion History Museum & Gift Shop will be open for self-guided tours from 11:00-2:00 p.m.! Brownella Cottage tours are $5 per person!
SOUTH LAWN
Craft Vendors of all varieties and DJ Marcia Yunker will be set up on the South Lawn!
If you are interested in being a vendor at this event, please email us at galionhistory@gmail.com or call our office at (419) 468-9338!
FOOD
The Messy Bun Food Cart and A&M's Donut Wagon will be on site from 11:00-2:00 p.m.!
ASTRONOMY PORCH RAFFLE
The Galion History Center is raffling off the chance to view this historic solar event from a historic place – Bishop Brown’s Astronomy Porch located on the 4th floor of Brownella Cottage! Raffle tickets are $5 and are available for purchase online only at www.galionhistory.com/shop. A raffle ticket enters you to win two spots on the astronomy porch to view the solar eclipse in its entirety (1:50 -4:30 p.m.) The drawing will take place on Monday, March 25th!
Eclipse Timeline for Galion, OH
Partial begins - 1:56:50 pm
Full begins - 3:11:50 pm
Maximum - 3:13:36 pm
Full ends - 3:15:22 pm
Partial ends - 4:27:34 pm
If you have any questions about this event please feel free to reach out at (419) 468-9338 or email us at galionhistory@gmail.com!
Tony's Pastry Shop Exhibit Unveiling
The Galion History Center staff have been working on something sweet! On Friday, February 23rd, Executive Director, Tanesha Pickering, and Curator, Keily Cunningham, met Tony Weibl and his family in the Galion History Museum as his family surprised the renown Galion baker with GHC’s newest exhibit Tony’s Pastry Shop! The exhibit showcases artifacts from Tony’s Pastry Shop and pays homage to the incredible life of master baker Tony Weibl and the impact his bakery had on Galion.
Originally from Yugoslavia, Tony Weibl and his family fled to Germany when Russia advanced on Yugoslavia in 1943 and took the family property. Their once well-off family was devastated from the effects of WWII. With Tony’s father away at war and experiencing hunger, at age 13, Tony became the apprentice to a German baker. Tony was often able to take baked goods home to his family after his work day. The family came to America in 1951 where Tony joined the U.S. Army and put his baking skills to good use and quickly learned English.
In 1959, Tony moved to Galion and bought the Malloy Bakery at 244 Harding Way E. The Grand Opening of Tony’s Pastry Shop took place in early February of 1960. The shop served a variety of breads, rolls, pastries, cake, cookies, pies, doughnuts, and delicacies over it’s 29 years in uptowne Galion. It truly was a beloved business by so many in Galion! Tony retired and closed his shop in 1988. At age 91, Tony Weibl still spends time baking at Andrew’s Pastries in Marion. Andrew’s Pastries keeps Tony’s recipes alive and well to this day!
The Galion History Center will hold a public unveiling of its new exhibit in the Galion History Museum and Gift Shop (located in the Brownella Cottage Carriage House – 132 S. Union St.) on Saturday, March 16th from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Tony’s famous sugar brownies will be provided by Andrew’s Pastries while supplies last! Admission is by donation only! We look forward to seeing you there!
Holiday Cookie & Wine Pairing Tours
The Galion History Center is excited to host its 3rd Annual Holiday Cookie & Wine Pairing Tours at Brownella Cottage! Tours will be held Friday, December 15th at 5:00, 6:00, & 7:00 p.m. Guests will take a self-guided tour of Brownella Cottage and find 4 wine and cookie pairing stations along the way! Tickets are $25 per person and includes a commemorative Galion History Center wine glass. We are pleased to again, partner with Fox Winery and Cake & Icing Bakery for as taste of Galion flavor!
The 2023 Pairing List will be posted soon!
Brownella Cottage is located at 132 S. Union St. in Galion, Ohio. The home was built as wedding present for Bishop William Montgomery Brown and his wife Ella in 1887. The Cottage remains filled with their original furniture and is a time capsule of Victorian era life in Galion. Don’t miss this unique seasonal tour!
If you have any questions regarding our Holiday Cookie & Wine Pairing Tours call our office at (419) 468-9338 or shoot us an email at galionhistory@gmail.com!
Brownella Lights Tours
Join us for an evening holiday tour of Brownella Cottage! On Wednesday, December 6th and Thursday, Dec. 7th from 5:00 -7:00 p.m. the main level of Brownella Cottage will be open to visitors for a self-guided holiday tours of the Cottage! Santa will be at Brownella to visit and take pictures with kids on December 6th from 5:00-7:00 and December 7th from 5:00-6:00 p.m.!
Admission is by donation only! Don’t miss seeing this beautiful Victorian home all decked out for the holiday season!