It's not every day that a plaque dedication rolls around to make headlines, but when it's tied to Ohio's historical memory, it nudges its way into the spotlight. Ohio's First Lady Fran DeWine recently had such a moment of honor as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) celebrated her contributions to Great Council State Park. The park, a testament to Ohio's Shawnee history and pioneer past, is marking its first anniversary on June 7.
According to a recent ODNR announcement, "First Lady was a driving force every step of the way when it came to the creation of Great Council State Park," ODNR Director Mary Mertz commented. This park, located conveniently off U.S. Route 68 in Xenia, has now been paired with a plaque that is set to closely follow in prestige the theater itself—a testament to Fran DeWine's vision and persistence in making the park a reality. On the premises, visitors are treated to a 12,000-square-foot interpretive center, equipped with interactive exhibits that effortlessly whisk them back to 1700s Ohio.
In remarks that resonate with history buffs and families alike, Fran DeWine told ODNR, "My family has land a few miles from this park that dates to back to 1814. Today, I love that so many children and visitors are learning about this important part of Ohio history." Blending personal heritage with educational outreach, the First Lady's deep-rooted connections to the region add a layer of authenticity to the park's narrative. The interpretative center's film and exhibits highlight significant historical figures, including Shawnee leaders Tecumseh and Blackfish, as well as renowned frontiersmen such as Daniel Boone and Simon Kenton.
Ohio's Governor Mike DeWine, also vocal about the park's significance, stated, "Fran is so passionate about Great Council State Park and honoring this part of Ohio’s story." These words, not divorced from the gravity of the park's cultural impact, reflect the shared dedication of the DeWine family towards Ohio's storied past. Since opening, Great Council State Park has welcomed a diverse range of visitors - from regional school kids to global tourists from as far away as Australia and Hungary.
