The daffodils and crocuses of spring are signs of hope – much needed after the past year! And with hope comes plans for getting out and about and taking road trips again. If you are looking for destinations that are just a short drive away and offer safe and family-friendly attractions, check out what is on the calendar in Steubenville, on the eastern border of Ohio.
The Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Center (120 S. 3rd Street) presents “The Ohio Valley & the Civil War” with a display of objects and artifacts from the period. Original Civil War letters, swords, firearms, uniforms, pictures, and personal items are part of the exhibit. Additionally, text panels explaining the Civil War and its impact on the Ohio Valley are displayed along with the restored cannon donated to the veteran’s section of Steubenville’s Union Cemetery by Veterans of the Civil War. The exhibit will be open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm or by appointment until March 20.
On March 29, the annual Spring Quilt Show will open at Historic Fort Steuben featuring dozens of hand-crafted textile creations from local artisans; some classic patterns and some new ones. The display will be up through April 10, Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 pm or by appointment.
The city offers several outdoor activities that allow social distancing while getting some exercise. Known as “The City of Murals,” Steubenville has 25 larger than life works of art, most within walking distance in the downtown area. A map of the murals can be obtained at the Visitor Center. For a more strenuous activity, Friends of Beatty Park invite you to a “Spring Hike to the Fossil and Secret Staircase” in the 19th century park/nature preserve located at 621 Lincoln Avenue on March 20 at noon.
The annual Great Steubenville Eggsibition will open on April 2 with over twenty 3′ tall, hand painted Easter eggs strategically placed in downtown businesses for an all-city, all ages Easter Egg Hunt! It will run through May 2 and maps can be obtained at Leonardo’s Coffeehouse or at the Visitor Center.
And before you know it May will be here when Historic Fort Steuben opens for tours of the eight fully furnished buildings that recreate life in an 18th century frontier fort as well as the adjacent original log structure that served as the First Federal Land Office from 1801 to 1840. A special exhibit based on the best-selling book by David McCullough, The Pioneers, will be on display from May 16 to June 30.
So, get out of the house and explore! For information on these and other events in the area, contact the Fort Steuben Visitor Center, 740-283-4935, or check the website www.VisitSteubenville.com.
The Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Center
