Ohio Country 1776: Gateway to America
A series of 25 public programs to communities across Appalachian Ohio, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to experience Revolutionary-era history through hands-on, place-based learning.
Spanning five regions–Athens, Chillicothe, Marietta, Steubenville, and Zanesville–the initiative will feature five programs on the themes of building, growing, learning, making, and moving. Each program combines expert-led interpretation with immersive experiences such as traditional craft workshops, historical reenactments, and experiences boating on the rivers that helped the region grow into what it is today.
​This project brings the foundational history of Appalachian Ohio to life by focusing on the material realities of the times. If we can taste the same apples folks ate some 250 years ago, if we can walk part of Zane’s Trace and try our hands at 18th-century handtools, then we can begin to better appreciate how Ohio came to be and what it means to be here now. We look forward to working with numerous partners to showcase the region’s early beauty and resilience.
Programs are offered free of charge and are designed to engage a wide range of audiences, from families and students to lifelong learners and history enthusiasts.
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In addition to in-person programming, Rural Action will develop a series of self-guided audio tours to extend access and deepen engagement beyond live events.
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Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these programs do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Upcoming Events
Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom
Learn more about the 25 upcoming public programs to communities across Appalachian Ohio, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to experience Revolutionary-era history through hands-on, place-based learning.
Marking Memory: Exploring, Honoring & Documenting Place Nov. 7th, 2026 • Marietta, Ohio
How do we remember the places that shape our communities? Join Rural Action and The Castle for a two-part program exploring the ways people have documented, honored, and preserved meaningful places throughout history.
More info coming soon
Ohio Country 1776: Gateway to America is funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
