Johnston Farm & Indian Agency

2012-02-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

Frank Bullock as General William Tecumseh Sherman

Thursday, April 12, 2012, 7:30 p.m.

An Evening with General Sherman

To commemorate the American Civil War, and the role played by the Johnston Farm; the Johnston Farm Friends Council presents Frank Bullock, from Sherman’s hometown of Lancaster, Ohio as William Tecumseh Sherman in 'An Evening with the General'.

The Johnston Farm served as Camp Piqua in the late summer of 1862 and some of the men who trained there became a part of Sherman’s forces.

A dessert reception will precede the 7:30 program, which is a major fundraiser to support the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency. The Piqua Country Club is the setting for this unique opportunity to become acquainted with one of key figures in the American Civil War. Preceding the reception and presentation, guests may make reservations for a period dinner at their own expense in the Country Club dining room.

This is a RESERVATION ONLY event; so call either 800-752-2619 or 773-2522 for more information and to secure your spot for this trip back 150 years.

COST: $30.00, $25.00 for Johnston Farm Friends Council and Ohio Historical Society members.

John Johnston's son and grandsons served as well in the war between the states,
though not with General Sherman. Check out our Civil War page for more information!(http://johnstonfarmohio.com/civil_war_at_the_johnston_farm)

General William Tecumseh Sherman

2011-12-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

Johnston Farm & Indian Agency

2012 Season Hours

Groups By Appointment: April, May, September, & October: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Open to the Public: June, July, and August: Thursday & Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Saturday & Sunday Noon - 5:00 p.m.

2012 Special Events

April 12: An Evening with General Sherman - Reservation Event (Please visit our website at www.johnstonfarmohio.com and check out the Evening with General Sherman page for more info) To commemorate the American Civil War, and the role played by the Johnston Farm; the Johnston Farm Friends Council presents Frank Bullock, from Sherman’s hometown of Lancaster, Ohio as William Tecumseh Sherman in 'An Evening with the General'.
The Johnston Farm served as Camp Piqua in the late summer of 1862 and some of the men who trained there became a part of Sherman’s forces.
A dessert reception will precede the 7:30 program, which is a major fundraiser to support the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency. The Piqua Country Club is the setting for this unique opportunity to become acquainted with one of key figures in the American Civil War. Preceding the reception and presentation, guests may make reservations for a period dinner at their own expense in the Country Club dining room.
This is a RESERVATION ONLY event; so call either 800-752-2619 or 773-2522 for more information and to secure your spot for this trip back 150 years.
COST: $30.00, $25.00 for Johnston Farm Friends Council and Ohio Historical Society members.

April 21: A Springtime Hike at the Johnston Farm

Spring is a time of new beginnings, and what better way to enjoy spring and mark Earth Day than with a hike at the Johnston Farm? Nature and history will be the focus of the afternoon as we visit some nooks and crannies of this historic jewel not usually accessible to visitors. Hikers will depart the Historic Indian and Canal Museum for an interpreted, moderate hike. Visitors should come prepared for the fields, forest, and towpath that are each a part of the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency.

COST: $4.00/adults, $2.00/students 6-12, free to Johnston Farm Friends Council and Ohio Historical Society members.

June 9 & 10: Family Days at the Johnston Farm

John Johnston’s family home will come alive with games and activities enjoyed in days past. Allow enough time to visit the Johnston’s home to learn how the family lived, take in the Historic Indian and Canal Museum to gain insight to the lives of the first people who called Ohio home, and don’t forget to include time in your day for a relaxing ride on the General Harrison of Piqua and relive the time when mules pulled boats and the world moved at four miles per hour.

COST: Regular site admission.

July 7 & 8: Life on an Indian Agency

This is a year of commemorations of the War of 1812 and the American Civil War; both were events in which this place had a part. A look at the impact John Johnston had on our history when his home was a Federal Indian Agency will be a focal point of this weekend. Come to the home of John Johnston and take part in demonstrations of many of the skills needed for the daily life of both Native and Euro Americans at the time that this was a Federal Indian Agency in the early 1800’s. Many activities will be hands-on so each visitor can experience first-hand how our ancestors made a life for themselves. This is an excellent event for the entire family. Complete the experience with a visit to the Historic Indian and Canal Museum as well as a relaxing ride on our replica, mule-drawn canal boat General Harrison of Piqua.

COST: Regular site admission

August 11: An Evening of Feasting, Music, & Canawling - Reservation Event

Enjoy a relaxing dinner in the Historic Indian and Canal Museum. Guests will then continue their evening with a twilight ride on the replica canal boat General Harrison of Piqua as it plies the entire length of our restored stretch of the Miami and Erie Canal. Passengers will be entertained with the peaceful music of a Native American flute as they experience the canal from an entirely different perspective. This unique opportunity is offered once each season and is a RESERVATION ONLY event; so call either 800-752-2619 or 773-2522 beginning July 1 to book your passage by August 7.

COST: $30.00/adults, $25.00/children 6-12, $25.00 & $20.00 for Johnston Farm Friends Council and Ohio Historical Society members

October 13: Celebrate Fall at the Johnston Farm

Have you ever wondered what the Miami and Erie Canal looked like in the fall? There will be two canal boat rides aboard the General Harrison of Piqua; one at 1:00 p.m. that will travel north to Lock 8 and return to the landing. The second ride at 2:30 will travel the entire length of our section of the canal to give passengers an idea of what canawlers saw in 1845 as they moved across western Ohio at four miles per hour. For those visitors who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, hayrides will also be a part of the afternoon. Join the staff and volunteers of the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency for this special fall afternoon and take part in a variety of activities and demonstrations at the home of John Johnston as well as a tour of the home. Be sure to include a visit to the Historic Indian and Canal Museum.

COST: Regular site admission

December 1: Christmas on the Johnston Farm - Reservation Event

This very special holiday event begins with dinner in John Johnston’s dining room featuring a traditional seasonal menu from the Johnston’s era. Following dinner, guests will be escorted into Johnston’s Drawing Room where the Johnston Farm Mummers will visit and present a traditional holiday entertainment. Next guests will visit each room of the home decorated for the holidays and learn more about some of our holiday traditions. Some special surprise visitors and neighbors may call as well. The visit will conclude with dessert and holiday music by the fireplace in the winter kitchen. This is a RESERVATION ONLY event; so call either 773-2522 or 800-752-2619 to confirm your spot for this very unique holiday event.

COST: $30.00/adults, $25.00/children to age 12, $25.00 and $20.00 for Johnston Farm Friends Council and Ohio Historical Society members

Not a Friends member yet? You could be saving up to 20% on special events!!!! Jake and Kit say...

For more information on the Johnston Farm and its events, please call 937.773-2522 or email Andy Hite at ahite@ohiohistory.org

ChipIn campaign

2011-09-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

John Johnston's brick farmhouse was, most likely, built somewhere between 1810 and 1812. In a letter from John Johnston to Henry Brown of Dayton, OH dated May 23, 1815, Johnston states;

'I beg of you to send up W. Baker or some other good brick layer as soon as possible to examine my House and direct him to call and give McColough (sic) the person who built it information that he may attend.'

In honor of this and of the many other 200 year anniversaries the first half of this decade will mark for the site - John Johnston and his family making Piqua their home, Johnston's involvement in the war of 1812, the beginning of his career in Ohio as an Indian agent and many more, we are running a ChipIn campaign asking for donations to help further the site's mission now and in the future.

For those of you who do not know what 'ChipIn' is, it is an online site dedicated to building a strong internet donation base for non-profits such as the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, For those of you who have enjoyed the site - in person and virtually through our website at http://www.johnstonfarmohio.com/ - this is an opportunity for you to join in and become a part of the site's future. As we all know, we are in a tough economy, but that makes small things so much more important - a walk on a forested trail, a stroll past a lovely old house, a ride on a boat down a lazy river. The JF&IA provides all of this and much more, as well as continuing to serve and educate over 4000 school children each year.

If you would like to join us in this mission, click the 'ChipIn' widget on the right hand side of the page and...

CHIP IN!

The management and staff of the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency thank you.

Stepping into the past

2011-06-29T19:49:00.000-07:00

We are nearly one month into the 2011 season. Spring has sprung and moved on to summer. The flowers are in bloom and both the staff and the visitors have enjoyed some lovely June weather. We could go on and on about events and sunny days and fun, but you know the old saying - one picture is worth a thousand words.

So this batch must be worth a million! Enjoy! And then come out to the site and see us.

All photos courtesy of Richard Smith

An Evening in Pickawillany recap

2011-05-11T18:22:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe over a month has passed since our 'Evening in Pickawillany'. This year's season kick-off fundraiser held at the Fort Piqua Plaza was a rousing success with over 120 in attendance. Everyone greatly enjoyed the great desserts by Coldwater Cafe, the exihibition of artifacts from the Pickawillany site, and William Hunt Jr.'s masterful performance as Andrew Montour.

We hope you join us next year, and until them, enjoy these images from April's event.

An Evening in Pickawillany - April 7th, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.

2011-03-15T11:05:00.000-07:00

Join us on April 7th, 011 at 7:30 p.m. for our second annual fundraiser. This year we kick off the new season with An Evening in Pickawillany featuing a Chautauqua Style History Alive! Presentation by William F Hunt Jr. as Sattelihu, Captain Andrew Montour.

In the early years of the 18th century, France and England began a series of savage and bloody French and Indian Wars to wrestle control of the North American continent. As both powers jockeyed for position again in the 1740’s, the focal point shifted towards the vast, fertile Ohio country. This untamed wilderness, rich in natural resources, and especially large populations of fur bearing animals, loomed west of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains. Few Englishman had journeyed into this paradise. As French interests ebbed southward towards the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, the colonies of Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland, became increasingly alarmed at this French expansion onto their western borders. Wedged in between these two European powers, were the various native woodland tribes of Iroquoian and Algonquin stock. One of the most dominant was the powerful Six Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. Also present were mixed groups of Algonquin speaking Shawnees and Delawares. By 1754, war again began to boil over on to the Ohio. French and English envoys courted alliances with the Ohio Indians. The French were masters of Indian diplomacy. For the English, only a few men could counter the French.

Fortunately for the English, a man of mixed Franco-Iroquoian heritage emerged on the scene. Andrew Montour (Sattelihu), the eldest son of a French-Canadian mother, and an Oneida war chief, was born in an obscure Seneca village, and raised as an Iroquois. A gifted linguist, Montour could speak fluently at least 10 Indian languages, as well as French and English, and was a master of complex Indian diplomacy. A skilled warrior, guide and hunter, he knew the Ohio country better than most Anglo men. As early as the 1740’s Andrew Montour conducted diplomatic missions on the Ohio on behalf of Virginia and Pennsylvania. He accompanied a various number of English diplomats and traders into hostile and unknown Ohio villages, and served as a trusted interpreter at many important Indian councils. Montour, an enigma even in his own time, also understood the European cultures. A frequent guest to the royal governors of Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, Andrew Montour often appeared dressed in an odd assortment of Euro-native attire. Well respected among the Ohio tribes and beloved by the Ohio Iroquois, the French quickly feared Montour as a threat to French supremacy.

Throughout the French and Indian War and later during Pontiac’s War in 1763, Montour continued to serve English interest through diplomacy and warfare. In the words of Conrad Weiser, a Pennsylvania trader, and a diplomat of Indian Affairs, gave Andrew Montour the highest accolades of being, “Knowing, Faithful, and Prudent”.

William Hunt brings to life once again the exploits of Andrew Montour and his contributions to the English cause during this bloody and turbulent period in Colonial American history. By so doing, Mr. Hunt pays tribute to his own mixed-blood native heritage. Mr. Hunt, the former Director of the Historical Craik-Patton House in Charleston, WV, is a devoted historian of the 18th Century Colonial Frontier, and is also a historical interpreter of the same period. He has been fascinated by Andrew Montour for many years and has extensively researched to bring him into a first person, historical perspective. William has traveled to many historical locations related with Andrew Montour as he is continually researching and studying the 1700’s.

The Piqua Friends Council & the Piqua Public Library present a virtuoso performance by this veteran historic interpreter at the Fort Piqua Plaza, on the Square, William McKinley Ballroom, 308 N. Main St. Piqua OH. Also on display that evening w...ill be never before seen objects unearthed on the Pickawillany site.

Tickets are $30 for the general public and $25 for members. Call 1.800.752.2619 or email ahite@ohiohistory.org for more information.

HYPE seeks 365 Ways to Have Fun in Miami County

2011-03-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

If your favorite activity in Miami County is visiting the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Emerge) wants to know! Submit your suggestions for great activities by visiting the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/hypenmv, where you will find a link to a Facebook event for 365 Things to do in Miami County. You may also link to the Facebook page by clicking on the rotating banner on www.hits1055.com Suggestions will be collected through March 26, after which members of HYPE will select their favorite 365 suggestions.

Not a fan of Facebook? You may email your ideas to hypenmvcochair@gmail.org. All submissions should be specific and include both an activity and a location, which must be in Miami County . Suggestions will be collected through March 26, after which members of HYPE will select their favorite 365 suggestions. A promotional e-flyer will be produced and made available to the public after that time, and the group will continue to promote the list through weekly blog posts on www.daytonmostmetro.com about HYPE members trying out the activities included on the list.

"So many times I've heard friends and colleagues ask what there is to do in this area," says Doug Eakin, HYPE Chair. "As a newcomer to the area three years ago, I was amazed at how much our county has to offer. It's time we talk up the great amenities we have available and start taking advantage of the ones that remain best-kept secrets."

HYPE is a group formed by young professionals for young professionals in the Northern Miami Valley . The group strives to achieve its vision through focused efforts to support social opportunity, professional development and community involvement for young professionals in the area. HYPE was established in collaboration with the Covington , Piqua , Tipp City and Troy Area Chambers of Commerce. To learn more about HYPE or to participate in this project, check out their website at www.hypenmv.org or visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hypenmv.

Johnston Farm and Indian Agency accredited by the American Association of Museums in Washington, D.C.,

2011-01-19T18:02:00.000-08:00

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Historical Society announced Tuesday that the American Association of Museums in Washington, D.C., has accredited six OHS historic sites and museums for the first time - Johnston Farm & Indian Agency in Piqua, Adena Mansion & Gardens in Chillicothe; Armstrong Air & Space Museum in Wapakoneta; Campus Martius Museum in Marietta; Fort Ancient near Oregonia; and Fort Meigs in Perrysburg. In addition, the Ohio Historical Center in Columbus has earned reaccreditation, its fourth time to earn the designation.

Accreditation from the American Association of Museums is the highest national recognition achievable by an American museum since the program began in 1971. Currently, there are 780 accredited museums in the United States. That means that just 4.5 percent of the estimated 17,500 museums in the country are accredited. AAM accreditation is a widely recognized seal of approval.

Andy Hite, historic site manager at Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, was happy about the news of the accreditation. "We are very pleased to receive this recognition by the American Association of Museums. Accreditation reaffirms the quality of service that the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, as well as the other Ohio Historical Society sites, brings to the visitors who come to our sites. This accreditation shows that the highest standards of our profession are being met by the staff and volunteers at each of our sites. Visitors to the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency will know that there is no other site in the US that offers any better visitor experience on a daily basis," Hite said. "In many ways this just shows what we have felt here for a long time," he said. "Our staff and volunteers are as good, if not better, than at any other historical site in the nation."

"Since its founding in 1885, the Ohio Historical Society has been consistently recognized as one of the leading state historical organizations in the country," said Burt Logan, OHS executive director and CEO. "The Ohio Historical Center was among the first institutions to be accredited by the American Association of Museums when the program was established in 1971. This, the center's fourth subsequent accreditation, reaffirms that we continue to meet the most stringent professional standards in all areas of operation. It also is especially gratifying to have six of the Society's sites receive this coveted designation."

Developed and sustained by museum professionals for more than 39 years, AAM's museum accreditation program is the field's primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation and public accountability. To best serve their communities, it is essential that museums be committed to institutional improvement, maintaining the highest standards in collections stewardship, governance, institutional planning, ethics, education and interpretation and risk management. AAM accreditation signifies excellence and accountability to the entire museum community, to governments and outside agencies and to the museum-going public.
"Accreditation is an entirely self-motivated process, and is no small task," said Ford W. Bell, AAM president. "Accreditation is clearly a significant achievement. But put simply, it means the citizens of the communities served by these museums have in their midst a truly outstanding museum."

The AAM Accreditation Program recognizes museums' commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards and continued institutional improvement. To earn accreditation, a museum first must conduct a year of self-study, then undergo a site visit by a two-person team of peers. The accreditation commission, an autonomous body of museum professionals appointed by the AAM board, considers the self-study and site visit report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation. While the time to complete the process varies by museum, it generally takes as much as three years. All accredited museums undergo a subsequent review within 10 years of their last accreditation award.

At each of the newly accredited historic sites, the Ohio Historical Society will be hosting a reception to recognize the achievements of the site's management and volunteers as well as to present the accreditation certificate. A reception has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 14, for Piqua's Johnston Farm & Indian Agency.

The Ohio Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that serves as the state's partner in preserving and interpreting Ohio's history, natural history, archaeology and historic places. For more information, visit http://www.ohiohistory.org/.

First published in the Daily Call, Piqua, OH 12/29/2010 7:40:00 AM http://tinyurl.com/5uqj7y8

Support History Day

2010-12-06T14:54:00.000-08:00

One of our goals at The Johnston Farm & Indian Agency is to make history come alive. Another, is to KEEP it alive! Many Ohio children have benefited from their participation in Ohio's History Day and yet, sadly, due to budget cuts, there are many who have not had a chance to do so. History Day allows children not only to delve into a particular subject that interests them, but to learn analytical skills that are necessary in the history field, but in many others as well. This month you can help support hisory just by clicking! Please go to the link below and take a look.
http://www.refresheverything.com/ohiohistoryday

Johnston Farm Life on an Indian Agency

2010-07-19T18:56:00.000-07:00

Our July event has come and gone. Everyone attending seemed to have a great time, and with nearly twice as many visitors as last year, that was a lot of fun!

Nearly two hundred years ago John Johnston's Ohio farm became an Indian Agency for the Shawnee Indians. It was unique in Ohio then and still is today. John Johnston was known as a friend of Native Americans and spent his time and money supporting, supplying and providing a sancutary to Indians.

This years focus was on the early years of the agency, established in 1812. Grandma Johnston, John Johnston's mother, made an appearance, speaking about her life as a single mother on the frontier.

Jim Johnson was on hand representing Johnston's native friends, and he brought many a smile to both children and adults alike with his talents and generosity.

As usual our talented volunteers were also on hand to show all of the various chores and tasks it took to keep such a busy, active and important agency working smoothly.

In other words, a great time was had by all!

Johnston Farm Family Fun Day June 2010

2010-06-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

Our 2010 season kicked into high gear with last weekend's Family Fun Days. Old and young alike enjoyed watching the Ohio Village Muffins 1860s baseball team, taking a ride on the 1830s canal boat, visiting the Indian Museum, and touring the 1815 farmhouse.

Spinning, weaving, cooking and candle making demonstrations, along with a chance to try your hand at nineteenth century chores and Native American beading, rounded out the day. Take a look at the smiles on the faces of those attending and make certain you mark your calendar to come to the next event, Life on an Indian Agency, July 10th and 11th. There will be more of the same plus 1812 reenactors and a first person presentation featuring John Johnston's mother, Elizabeth Bernard Johnston, sharing what it was like to live life as a single mother on the frontier.

Signing of Johnston Book at the Piqua Taste of the Arts Festival May 21st, 2010

2010-05-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

Friday night Piqua Ohio hosts its annual Taste of the Arts. This year Marla Fair, interpreter at the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, will be a part of the Author's Book Fair located in the lobby of the Piqua Library in the newly renovated Fort Piqua Plaza. Marla will be on hand her to sign the recently published book, 'In the Midst of Danger: Book One of the Johnston Chronicles'. All profits from the sale of the book go to support the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, 9845 N. Hardin Rd. Piqua OH.

Come and see Marla and go home with a book or other item knowing that your purchase is helping keep history alive!

Taste of the Arts, Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm Location: Downtown Piqua. 14 area restaurants will be offering taster size portions of their popular menu items. Enjoy an evening of fun with art demonstrations, children's activities, music and more.

History Day Update - Ruolin Yang goes on to State!

2010-05-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

Canals and Locks - What America Has Forgotten
Ruolin Yang

http://76445069.nhd.weebly.com/

We are excited to announce that Ruolin Yang who did the canal website we featured last month has qualified for the National History Day contest in June! She also won the Ohio Historical Records Advisory Board Award for her project and received a check for archives use.

Congratulations, Ruolin!

History Day Project - Individual Website made by Ruolin Yang

2010-04-16T17:20:00.000-07:00

National History Day in Ohio is an exciting co-curricular program for students in grades 4-5 and 6-12. Each year, students conduct research based on the annual theme and create historical papers, original performances, media documentaries, creative exhibits and imaginative websites as a result of their research. More than just one day, History Day is a program that allows students to do independent research and create a project that has a life outside the program. Students choose a topic related to the annual theme and can create a paper, exhibit, documentary, performance or website.

For this week's post we'd like to share with you one local student's project. Ruolin Yang chose to do her History Day project on transportation, featuring America's canals and locks. She met with Andy Hite, site manager of the Johnston Farm and Indian Agency, and toured some of Miami County's remaining canal sites in preparation for creating her imaginative website. We'd like to thank Ruolin and her family for sharing the site with us - and now with you.

You can view Ruolin's project, Canals and Locks - What America Has Forgotten, at http://76445069.nhd.weebly.com/

Please add a comment and let us know what you think and we will pass it along to Ruolin.

A Dickens of a good time was had by all!

2010-04-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Just as Charles Dickens did when he met John Johnston in 1842, Roger Jerome and his masterful performance have come and gone in the space of two days.

April 08th, 2010 saw the public premiere of Dickens in Ohio. The event was held in the William McKinley Domed Ballroom at the Fort Piqua Plaza in Piqua OH. For the nearly one hundred and fifty guests in attendance, the event kicked off at 7:30 with a plate of period correct desserts and a cup of lemon shrub, and concluded with Roger Jerome's performance. In between there was time to mingle with costumed interpreters and volunteers (only a few guests were startled by the Indians!), to take a look at the 1840s exhibits (including a local collection of dageurreotypes, and artifacts kindly supplied by the Piqua Public Library), and to make a purchase at the PHA Friends Council table. Items for sale to support the site included hand-woven scarfs and sashes, ornaments and Cat's Meow representations of the site, as well as the first in a series of historical novels chronicling the Johnstons' lives - In the Midst of Danger.

The program, which began at 7:30, was introduced by James Oda, director of the Piqua Public Library. He was followed by Burt Logan, the new executive director and CEO of the Ohio Historical Society. Mr. Logan was in attendance not only to see Charles Dickens, but to announce the Piqua Historical Area's new name. Designation of an OHS site has only been changed two times in the Society's history. In order to reflect better the aim and purpose of the Piqua Historical Area, and to come more in line with the name most familiar to the public, the site's new designation is: Johnston Farm and Indian Agency, with the added identifying tag of 'Native American, Frontier and Canal History'.

As Andy said, 'Johnston Farm' is what the public calls the site already.

With this event, the Johnston Farm and Indian Agency looks forward to an exciting 2010 season. Watch the blog for news and events, as well as updates on local construction and more.

William Bernard Johnston - The Merchant 1824-1890

2010-04-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

William Bernard Johnston, the fourth son of John Johnston, is a bit of a mystery. Though there are more images of William (as an older man) than of any of the other boys, there are very few written references to him. William was born on January 22, 1824 at Upper Piqua, OH and seems to have followed the path of several of the other boys - schooled at home and an Ohio college, and then sent out to learn about buying and selling; finally, to establish his own business. He is listed in the 1880 census as a 'fine European merchant'. His business location was Cincinnati, first in a store with his brother James known as Johnston Brothers, and then, later, on his own. The location of Johnston Brothers was Pearl Street. Pearl Street Market, founded in 1816, was the oldest public market in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Market occupied the middle of Pearl Street between Broadway and Sycamore. The market was later torn down to make way for Cincinnati's Riverfront Stadium.

William married Josephine Brownell at Piqua, OH, Nov. 20, 1866. They had two children, Cornelia and William Jr. Neither child married. William Jr. and Cornelia lived with their mother until her death, and after that, with their maternal aunt.

William Bernard Johnston died November 17, 1890 in Cincinnati, OH at the age of 66.

Letter to Julia, Mary, Rosanna, Rachel, Rebecca, John, Catherine, and William Johnston at Upper Piqua Columbus January 22, 1833from John Johnston, at Columbus, OH
In answer to William’s letter, I am glad you all go to school, and that you are learning. At the time you wrote it was a very cold day here as it was with you. The weather is now warm again. I want you to learn to ride Charley so that you might go errands to the Post Office, etc.

John Johnston to AR Johnston January 1840
Your brother William at Columbus was quite well, growing tall* as yourself and Stephen. He is a boy of fine habits and temper and gives great satisfaction to his principals. (*author’s note: AR Johnston was over 6’ tall)

John Jones to AR Robinson Oct. 3 1843 Cincinnati
William is getting along very well in Rushville, IN. He is a remarkably fine young man. I like him much.

Two days and counting...

2010-04-06T18:00:00.000-07:00

..until Charles Dickens makes his appearance in Piqua, OH! You still have time to join the well over one hundred people attending this unique event. Call the site at 937-773-2522 or 1-800-752-2619 (toll free) to make your reservation. Come enjoy an evening of shrub, music, and masterful entertainment. Tickets cost $25 and include Roger Jerome's performance as Charles Dickens, beverages, and dessert, as well as an evening spent in the splendor of Piqua's newly renovated and restored William McKinley Domed Ballroom in the Fort Piqua Plaza.

New date for DICKENS IN OHIO event

2010-03-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

Due to the unexpected illness of Roger Jerome who portrays Charles Dickens, the DICKENS IN OHIO event has been moved to Thursday, April 8th, 2010. For those of you who could not attend the March date, and those who failed to get their invitations sent in time, this gives you an additional three weeks to do so.

Take advantage of this unanticipated opportunity by contacting Andy Hite at the Johnston Farm (aka Piqua Historical Area) at 937-773-2522 or 1-800-752-2619.

DICKENS IN OHIO March 18th, 2010

2010-02-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

CHARLES DICKENS IS COMING TO PIQUA!

The Piqua Historical Area Friends Council and the Piqua Public Library will present the public premier of "Dickens in Ohio" by veteran actor Roger Jerome on Thursday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Fort Piqua Plaza on the Square, William McKinley Ballroom, 308 North Main St.

The most famous living writer of his time, Charles Dickens visited several cities in Ohio in 1842 and met Col. John Johnston, whose farm is part of the Johnston Farm Historic Site in Piqua. The meeting with Johnston, and others he met during his travels in Ohio, is portrayed in the virtuoso performance of humorous stories, impressions and period music.

Tickets are $25 each and include a dessert reception and beverages. Reservations can be made by calling 800.752.2619 or 937.773.2522. Proceeds will benefit the Johnston Farm Historic Site. Other sponsors include the Miami County Convention & Visitor Bureau, Comfort Inn in Piqua and Eagle Printing & Graphics.

"This will be a wonderful event for our area for all who love our history and all who have enjoyed the many works of Charles Dickens," said Margaret French, chair of the development committee of the Piqua Friends Council. "Roger Jerome as Dickens provides an entertaining and absolutely fascinating glimpse of Ohio shortly after it celebrated its 30th year as a state."

The Friends Council has also arranged for Mr. Jerome to present his program to students at Piqua High School on March 19. A native of England and resident of Ohio, Mr. Jerome is a veteran presenter of Dickens’ works and has performed in a variety of venues throughout the country. He is a member of the Dickens Fellowship.

Dickens called Ohio "all that America had been, is and would be" following his month-long visit in April 1842 to Cincinnati, Lebanon, Columbus, Upper Sandusky, Tiffin, Sandusky and Cleveland. Generally considered the greatest English author of the Victorian period, Charles Dickens wrote several books that are still considered "required reading" today, including A Christmas Carol, A Tale of Two Cities, David Copperfield, Great Expectations, Oliver Twist and the Pickwick Papers.

John Johnston was a farmer, public official and United States Indian agent for western Ohio from 1812-1829. His farm is the centerpiece of the Johnston Farm Historic Site, which also includes the Johnston home and out-buildings, a museum with exhibits that trace the story of the Eastern Woodland Indians of Ohio and Ohio’s canal area, a restored portion of the Miami and Erie Canal, and a replica of the General Harrison of Piqua, a 70-foot-long mixed cargo canal boat. The site is administered by The Ohio Historical Society and the Friends Council is the primary support group.

For additional information about "Dickens in Ohio" and/or the Piqua Historical Area, please call Andy Hite, site manager, at 800.752.2619 or 937.773.2522 or ahite@ohiohistory.org.

Dickens in Ohio is co-sponsored by the Piqua Historical Area Friends Council and the Piqua Public Library, in cooperation with the Ohio Historical Society

Roger Jerome's image courtesy of Mr. Jerome. The above text was composed by Scott Mueller of The Piqua Historical Area Friends Council

John Henry Dearborn Johnston - The Reluctant Farmer 1820 -1863

2010-02-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

John Henry Dearborn Johnston, the third son of John and Rachel Johnston, was born on June 25, 1820 at the farmhouse at Upper Piqua, OH. John HD, as he was usually referred to, was the son chosen to inherit the farm and a farmer's life. There are indications in family letters that he was not well suited for it by constitution or temperament. His mother constantly refers to the fact that he is not rugged enough, and in the 1840s - when John HD was old enough to be settled down and to inherit the farm - he simply refused to 'get a wife' as it was put in that era. Getting married would have removed any impediment to him taking over from his aging father.

I cannot get John inclined to get himself a wife, yet we are in great need of a female head to the house. Our losses are considerable here on this house account. My health is declining with my years and want John suited before I am called. John Johnston to AR Johnston December 8, 1843 Upper Piqua, Ohio.

Another letter mentions the fact that John HD had decided to 'get' his wife in Pennsylvania, rather than in Ohio. Still, his sister Maggie suggested in a letter to her father that the idea of marrying had frightened him 'effectively out of the nation." Margaret Johnston to John Johnston April or May 1841 Upper Piqua

John HD finally 'got' his wife. Her name was Mary Jane Dye. The couple was married June 12, 1845 at her home in Piqua. Soon after the two of them took over running the Johnston family homestead.

In the late 1850s John HD advertised the Upper Piqua farm for sale. There are indications that this caused some sort of a rift between him and his father. John Johnston altered his will at the time, and in an addendum to it, tells his eldest daughter Elizabeth:

14th Octbr 1857 In the event of my son John selling or in any way disposing of the Upper Piqua Farm, I have enjoined upon him to give of the avails to his sister Mary McLean $2000 and to his sister Rachel Reynolds $2000, his sister Julia Patterson $1000, - and I charge you to see that this is fully complied with as an act of sheer justice; the property he received from me being of more value that than what all the other heirs received of my estate. John Johnston to Elizabeth Johnston Jones, Dayton June 9, 1856

This, along with a statement made by John Johnston in July of 1852, seems to suggest this is a continuation of an older trouble.

Had you gone to Upper Piqua John and wife would have made you welcome, and if you can make your arrangements for going there next spring, do so. If alive I will make all right there for you. Never be backward to go there. You all have right to go there. John Johnston to Mary McLean, July 26, 1852

Due to his fragile health, John HD did eventually sell the Upper Piqua farm to his brother, William and moved to town. He died on February 23, 1863, at age 43, of consumption. In his obituary John HD is described as ‘a modest, unassuming man and highly esteemed.’

Rachel Johnston to AR Johnston, January 1, 1835
John is grown a great deal and now works on the farm with a brother of James Miller. He is a good boy and we get along with the work very well.

Rachel Johnston to AR Johnston Upper Piqua, March 1, 1835
John is farmer this winter. I am afraid he is not rugged enough for it. A very little makes him sick.

Image of the Johnston Homestead is from Henry Howe's History of Miami County, 1846

Rebecca Johnston II, The Gentle Spirit 1818-1841

2010-01-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

Rebecca Johnston (II) was born August 02, 1818 at the farm at Upper Piqua, OH. Like her closest elder sister, Rachel, not much is known of her life. It appears she enjoyed visiting with the Pattersons in Dayton and living the ‘city’ life. Rebecca was also one of the girls who seemed most prone to illness. Family letters refer often to her health and her parents concerns over it.

Rebecca married James Findlay Whiteman May 13, 1840 at the Upper Piqua farm. She died April 26, 1841, age 22, several weeks after giving birth to her son, Benjamin, who followed her in death a few months later. The death was blamed on the birth though, as was often the case in the 19th century, the most likely cause would have been contamination carried to the mother through the person of the attending physician (if there was one). Doctors in this time period had no concept of germs and few washed their hands between patients.

John Johnston to his children at home, January 22, 1833

I suppose Rachel and Rebecca has to do the work, and lets Ma sit still and give orders and sew and darn stockings etc., and Julia make pound cake, and Rosanna milk and churn.

Rachel Johnston to Rebecca Johnston, December 20,1833

We looked for you last Monday and was disappointed when night came at not seeing you, but I suppose you are enjoying yourself. I was in hopes the bishop’s good words would have had such an effect of the good people of Dayton, they would not care for having more balls, but I see it was not the case. I was told there was a young lady at it, her name was Rebecca Johnston, I suppose you don’t know her. I know her and she is to write to her mother. If you see her, tell her how I was very much disappointed at not receiving a letter (by) the engineers (that) came up.

Julia Patterson to Jefferson Patterson – Piqua, April 13, 1833
I suppose by this time you are beginning to feel a little lonesome and would like to receive a letter. I know I should be monstrously glad to get one myself. Ma and I had a pleasant ride up though the roads were much worse than I expected to find them. All went well until Friday noon when Rebecca found an apple in my basket which she took and eat it and not being accustomed it made her very sick. She then went into a cold room to lie down and took a violent cold which has increased very rapidly and made her very ill. The Doctor is attending her and I believe considers her dangerous. At least he says he is astonished that inflammation has not taken place in her stomach. He bled her a few moments since and I think she appears easier. Neither Pa nor Ma appears at all alarmed about her, but it is my firm belief that her health will never be restored.

George Holtzbecher (brother-in-law) to Stephen Johnston Esq
It becomes my painful duty of informing you of the death of your dear sister Rebecca Whiteman who left us for the world of spirits today at 2 Oclock P.M. – Eight days since she became the mother of a fine boy since which time she was attacked with the bilious fever which terminated in a mortification of the bowels. – I need not endeavor to offer to brothers & sisters consolation for such a bereavement for you alone know the value of such an inestimable sister. – Her poor disconsolate husband is indeed to be pityed (sic), he was the most (devoted) of husband. he was throughout her sickness to be found at her bed side, he is inconsolable. Your father has not yet visited us being still at Sandusky, it will be a heavy stroke for his feeble frame to bear

Epitaph, Johnston Cemetery:

In memory of Rebecca Johnston Whiteman…a gentle spirit whose short life was devoted to those whose claims upon her affections and regards, as a daughter, she was ever dutiful and kind, as a wife perfectly devoted under all circumstances, and as a Christian meek and lowly, with a mind well disciplined for the enjoyment of those realms of bliss to which she was so early called.

Rachel P. Johnston, Sihouette of a Sister 1816 - ?

2009-12-06T17:33:00.000-08:00

Rachel P. Johnston, the sixth daughter of John and Rachel Johnston, was born on November 24, 1816 at Upper Piqua, OH. She is often paired in family letters and information with her sister, Rebecca, who was the next child born.

Little is known of Rachel in either life or death. From the few extant family letters that mention her, she seems from a young life to have preferred the city to the country life, once telling her brother Robinson that she wished 'between whiles that some stray person like yourself would drop in on us to gladden our hearts, and enliven our solitude.' Often in the Johnstons' time period, a grown and married daughter would return to the family home to act as a housekeeper if the need arose. It seems this is what Rachel did on at least this one occasion, as she had married William A. Reynolds May 25, 1836 at her childhood home and they residedat the time, in Cincinnati. Though it is to be assumed Rachel had children, we have no sure record of the family's descent. An online search did reveal an 1850 entry in Hamilton Co., OH for a Rachel and William A. Reynolds. If this is the Johnstons' daughter, her children at the time were: Mary 13, Elizabeth 11, Rebecca 9, James 7 and Kate, age 5. As these are the names of Rachel's siblings, the connection is likely.

Often in a family there is a lost child. For the Johnstons, it seems this was destined to be Rachel's role.

Rachel Johnston Reynolds died in Springfield, OH, date unknown.
John Johnston’s Memorandum Book 1832, starting May 14th
Rachel commenced board at Sage’s and going to school to Miss Bercaw’s.

John Johnston to Abraham Robinson Johnston, Upper Piqua, Ohio, Saturday March 28th, 1835
Your sister Rachel is still in Cincinnati. We look for her daily.

Stephen Johnston to John Johnston, Louisville KY, June 7th, 1843
Sister Rachel came to see us on Sunday last on her way to St. Louis, she having arrived thus far on her journey in safety. We were gratified to learn from her that your health has been for the last winter and spring more than usually good. The coffee pot and tumblers which you have sent us by her will be valued more highly than a present of greater intrinsic value and particularly to myself will they be dear as objects to awaken another time of boyhood’s home, and early days of happiness to bring to my remembrance...

Rachel Reynolds to AR Johnston Piqua, June 2nd, 1844
As far as here on the homestead we have been spending our spring season in the quietest way you could possibly imagine. John has been ploughing and planting, Rosanna milking and making butter, and raising chicks, turkeys and etc., and wishing between whiles that some stray person like yourself would drop in on us to gladden our hearts, and enliven our solitude.

Stephen Johnston to John Johnston, Louisville KY Dec. 4th 1842
I wish to be remembered in the most affectionately manner to Sister (sic) Rachel.

Abraham Robinson Johnston - Soldier, Scholar and Favorite Son

2009-11-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

Abraham Robinson Johnston was born to John Johnston and Rachel Hoping Robinson Johnston May 23rd of 1815. Robinson - as the family called him - was the second son of 5 boys, and as such was close to his elder brother, Stephen, in spite of the fact that 12 years separated them. When Robinson was only 5 years old, Stephen left to join the Navy. In a way this made him another 'first' son.

Robinson, more than any of the other boys, reflected his father's personality and interests, and seems from existing letters to have been the closest to him. Signed most often 'your affectionate' son, his letters are almost always addressed to 'my dear father'.

If one takes the letters of John Johnston's family and tries to piece their lives together - there is precious little info about the children in what is available from 1800 to 1840 - one comes away with an impression of a very well-educated, intelligent and humorous family, not immensely wealthy, but comfortable. A shift in political fortunes changed this to some extent, costing John Johnston his federal job and altering Robinson's life forever. John Johnston lost his job as Indian Agent due to the election of Andrew Jackson, and at that point Robinson was pulled from Miami Oxford University in Ohio where he was studying, and sent to West Point. The education at the military academy was free and from what his father said, that was a matter of some importance.

Apparently Robinson's first months at West Point were not spectacular. In February of 1831 his father received a letter telling him that "Cadet A. R. Johnston of the 4th class consisting of 87 members is 74 in Mathematics, 82 (in) French, ..He has committed 40 offences during these months 98 in demerit." In response to this John wrote to Robinson saying: "I do not of course well understand the above but you will, and whatever may have been amiss on your part for the late 6 months, you will have it in your power in future to rectify your experience there and your own good sense will point out your future course. In the present situation and resources of the family, the main dependence for money matters being cut off, makes it a measure of no little advantage to get one of the Boys supported and educated at the publick (sic) expense..... May you, my son, prove to be everything that I wish you, and in your maturer years be ranked among the Publick men, the Patriots and Sages of your Country." Robinson must have heeded his father's advice. By the end of his time at the Academy he had risen in rank to 23rd in a class of 61 and the Engineering Dept. informed his father that Robinson's conduct was 'exceptional'. He graduated July 1st, 1835 and was promoted in the army to the rank of Bvt. Second Lieut., Ist Dragoons.

Robinson had a distinguished military career spanning a little over 10 years, cut short by his tragic death at San Pasqual, CA in 1846. During the course of that 10 years he served at most of the forts in the West including Forts Gibson, Washita, Wayne and Leavenworth. Trained as were all the young men at West Point, he was a skilled engineer and his talents were put to use mapping and exploring - as well as policing - the wide open ranges of the American West. At one time he served with Captain Nathan Boone, Daniel Boone's son.

In 1846 Robinson was promoted to captain and made aide de camp to General Stephen Watts Kearney, who was placed in charge of the Army of the West during the Mexican War. The soldiers under Kearney traveled over 2000 miles, many of them on foot, from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas to just outside of San Diego. CA. At the bottom of a ridge, at an Indian village called San Pasqual, they encountered a band of Californios, and by the time the fighting was over 18 officers and men lay dead - including Robinson Johnston. General Kearney had put him in charge of the first assault of 12 dragoons and he was felled within seconds with a bullet to the head.

Stephen Johnston to John Johnston, May 31st, 1847 Norfolk, VA, Naval hospital

The melancholy intelligence of my poor brother’s death has only been conferred to me since my arrival at this place. My brother, to whom I was so much attached, how deeply do I feel his loss. I have tried in looking over the various accounts of that unfortunate expedition, to find some balm to my feelings, and I am gratified to say I found it in the official report of General Kearney. (sic) He says that Brother, with twelve dragoons, made a furious charge upon the line of the Enemy and in that met his untimely death. There was no dodging danger, everything was high-toned, chivalrous and becoming a Soldier. All this was like himself and precisely what he told me he would do were he to ever engage in battle with men in ranks. That he went off like a gallant soldier should certain be a source of melancholy satisfaction to his relatives who mourn his fate.

Robinson was 31 years old. He had become engaged to a young woman from New York by the name of Kate Cotheal shortly before he left for California. From what records remain, Kate never married. Letters seem to indicate that Robinson suspected he would die in California. He told a half-dozen people at least that he did not expect to return.

John Johnston to Mary McLean July 26, 1852

The information which you related about poor Robinson has reached me from other sources that he had a presentiment strongly impressed upon his mind that he never was to return from that campaign. He told the same to Major Cummings, his wife and daughters, at Fort Leavenworth.

As a last note, the image above may well be Robinson Johnston. When a comparison is made to his sister, Elizabeth's, portrait, there is a striking resemblance. At the least, it is a drawing done by Robinson and, as such, representative of him. The image is courtesy of Kenneth Woodward of the Woodward Museum in Ramona, CA.

Mary Johnston McLean, An Enduring Spirit 1813-1877

2009-10-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

Mary Johnston was born on November 28, 1813 at Upper Piqua, OH. She was the second of John Johnston's daughters to be born in their new home. At the time, the Johnstons were still living in their log house and the War of 1812 was in full swing, making the frontier a dangerous place for a new mother and child. In spite of this, Rachel Johnston refused to leave her husband's side and remained in the log house that rested within a stockade wall of 10 foot logs. In a letter to the merchant, Henry Brown, in Dayton, written October 1813, John Johnston says 'there is reason to believe we shall not again be interrupted by Indian Hostilities in this quarter'. So it seems Mary arrived just as fear and terror were ebbing in the west, though the eastern portion of the US had another year or more of warfare to endure.

Mary seems to have been the dutiful child. She spent her young years making her brothers’ and sisters’ clothes, aiding her mother in readying the house for winter, and teaching her siblings in a home school setting after their father lost his government job. She married Milton McLean June 10, 1834 at the Upper Piqua farm. In a letter dated January of 1834, John Johnston tells his daughter Julia Patterson, 'I have an indistinct recollection of Mr. Milton McLean. Know nothing of him except by hearsay. I suppose he is what may be called a promising young man without any property. I once heard Elizabeth speak well of him. I do not intend interposing any obstacles if the matter is agreeable to the others, knowing as I do from my own experience and extensive observation on the case of others that in our country everything depends on a good character and good habits united to an unwavering determination and fixed purpose to get ahead in the world, and that without these qualities all the wealth we may posses will soon leave us, all our rich men in Ohio are self-made men.'

The title of this post is 'an enduring spirit'. It seems Milton McLean never quite 'made it' as a self-made man. Johnston family letters seem to indicate Mary was often in ill health, and her financial state is a concern. Often, later in his life, John Johnston sent her money, and her children fabric and clothing. In one letter to her sister, Mary refers to her own family as ‘poor folks’. Apparently, she and Milton struggled with finances for most of their married life.

** I would like to thank one of Mary's descendants, George Hibben, for sending me the following. It adds something to the story and gives a 'picture' of Milton McLean.

The information comes from "The McLeans of East St. Louis," by Josephine Boylan, published in The Illinois Journal of Commerce, May 1936, pages 15-32. The article echoes John Johnston's thoughts about what he hoped Mary's husband would be. "The members of the St. Louis bar paid the highest honors to his [Milton] memory, saying that 'he ranked with the first young men of the West in view of talent, integrity and all the virtues.'" Milton died July 2, 1855.

Mary Johnston McLean died February 2, 1877, Cincinnati, OH, at the age of 63.

John Johnston to his children, Columbus January 22, 1833
I am glad to find that you are all so attentive to the school. It is a very great advantage that you have a sister capable of teaching you. Be obedient to her and learn all that you can…. I am glad school-keeping has proved so agreeable to Mary’s feelings and hope it may not prove too irksome an employment.

Rachel Johnston to Julia Patterson, Upper Piqua October 1, 1833
It is not in my power to send Mary at present. I may send after a while. I am in great want of Mary. I do not think I can do without her any longer and would rather let her go down and stay with you a while after we have got the house cleaned and the children’s clothes made for the winter.

Mary Johnston McLean to Rachel Johnston, March 14th, pre1841
When I wrote you again I did expect to be able to tell you the babe’s name, but I am sorry to say she is not named yet…. You know what constant attention a young infant requires…the babe grows and seems very healthy now so I suppose my time has not been altogether lost, as far as sewing I have done nothing at all which does not suit – poor folks you know.

John Johnston to Mary McLean, Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, July 26, 1852
I am glad my dear child that your health is so (much) improved by your trip into that high healthy country. You must always remember that it is your duty for the sake of your children to bear up against the trials and inconveniences of this life, to take care of your health and do the best you can under all circumstances. You have had many and severe trials and hard as your lot has been, there are thousands in the world, and many of them born to brighter prospects, worse off than you are. Therefore cheer up and do not suffer any of these adverse circumstances to overcome you. Trust God and He will strengthen you and cause all these things in the end to work for your good. He often permits us to be tried for our present and eternal welfare

Julia Johnston Patterson, Matriarch 1811-1897

2009-09-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

Julia Johnston was born August 16, 1811 at Upper Piqua, OH. She was the first of the Johnston children to be born in the new brick house. Julia, the fourth girl in the family, tended toward a melancholy disposition and had, as her father put it, ‘no taste for a farmer’s life’. She escaped the farm by marrying Jefferson Patterson of Dayton, Ohio on February 26, 1833 in a lavish ceremony that brought chefs to the Piqua farmhouse. The newlyweds lived at the Rubicon Farm in Dayton, part of which is now the Patterson Homestead. Two of Julia’s sons, John Henry and Frank Patterson, were the founders of National Cash Register or NCR in Dayton.

Julia was asked, as an older woman, to write her memories of the Upper Piqua farm. Thanks to her doing so, we have wonderful anecdotes about her grandmother taking care of the children's pet deer (after it had broken its ankle while stealing a sip of milk in the springhouse), and about the Johnston children baking poundcake, feeding the chickens and - once in a while - turning their mother's hair prematurely gray by finding Indian scalps hidden in a blockhouse.

Julia johnston Patterson died May 29, 1897 at age 85 about a month after suffering a broken hip. She was one of Ohio's last remaining pioneers.

Julia Johnston to Jefferson Patterson – Piqua July 1, 1833

I arose this morning in rather low spirits from some cause or other, I scarcely know what, but thought it would go off as it usually does in the course of an hour and then I would write to you, but I have waited until this evening and still my spirits are below par.

John Johnston to Jefferson Patterson, Upper Piqua, Sept. 6, 1833

There is nothing more unprofitable in this country than carrying a farm entirely by hired labour , and in point of vexation and want of comfort there is nothing to be compared to it, it is a continual scene of uneasiness. If you value your own comfort and happiness and that of your wife, have nothing to do with such things. She has no taste for a farmer’s life, and although raised on a farm, she knows nothing of the duties belonging to the station.

Rosanna Johnston, 1809 - 1844, A simple gift

2009-08-12T07:55:00.000-07:00

John and Rachel Johnston's fourth child, Rosanna, was born at Fort Wayne in the Indian Territory on July 2nd, 1809. Named after her maternal grandmother, Rosanna Robinson, the Johnston's third daughter was disabled. Her 1844 obituary states ‘the deceased had been as child of affliction from infancy’. There is no record of what ‘affliction’ Rosanna suffered, but one could assume her disibility came as a result of a common childhood illnesss such as measles. Rosanna was not so severely disabled as to be prevented from traveling and entering into other activities with her sisters, but there seemed to be no thought that she would ever marry or live anywhere other than with her family. Toward the end of her life Rosanna suffered epileptic fits. She died suddenly at home on August 11, 1844. She was 35.

John Johnston to AR Johnston, Columbus, Ohio Feb’y 3, 1831

Rosanna and John has not been well lately. The former has been disturbed with a kind of fits.

John Johnston to Jefferson Patterson Tuesday August 13, 1844

She done almost all the milking, churning, scrubbing, etc. My poor good tender-hearted child.

Ibid.

After leaving you on Monday and proceeding about 5 miles this side of Dayton, I met a messenger going in pursuit of me, with the melancholy intelligence that my poor afflicted child, Rosanna, was dead. She went to bed as usual on Sunday night and was found lifeless in her bed in the morning. I suppose she must have perished in one of those spasmodic fits to which she has been of late years subject. God for wise and holy purposes has doubtless taken her from the trouble to come. Ever since the death of her dear and most excellent mother, she has led a life of misery. No one to look to her wants and watch over her imperfections.

Hello!

2009-08-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

Hello Bloggers! My name is Diana and I work in the museum at the Piqua Historical Area, home of the Johnston Farm. I have been here for about 4 years and have learned a lot from many different resources. I will endeavor to keep you up to date about the various events, people, and random things that happen here, and hopefully entertain you as well. (Also, if you would like to add anything, say write about how fabulous your visit to the museum or house was, or how cool the mules are, feel free to add a comment.)

First, and this is a little late in coming, we had a totally awesome spring school season! We had almost 2500 students from all over western Ohio (and even Indiana!) visit our site. We enjoyed having them visit and hope they had fun and (hopefully) learned something new!

What do they learn about while here? Well, they learn about 1800s pioneer life by visiting and touring the home of John Johnston, Indian Agent, Canal Commissioner, and gentleman Farmer. They come down to the museum and learn about Ohio’s Native Americans and their first contact with European Traders, including a little bit about the first shopping mall in Ohio, Pickawillany. And last but not least, the students learn about the building and impact of the Miami and Erie Canal on the development of Ohio, and even get to RIDE ON A REPLICA CANAL BOAT!!! Is that beyond cool or what?

Teachers, if this sounds like something you would be interested in experiencing, or if you would like more information, please call 773-2522 or 800-752-2619. We still have some open spots for fall 2009 and spring 2010!

Life on an Indian Agency July event report

2009-07-16T16:05:00.001-07:00

This season we introduced a new July event, Life on an Indian Agency. Everyone who attended had a great time learning just what it took to operate a United States Indian Agency in the early to mid-1800s. John Johnston's tenure as an agent ran from 1802 until 1828. Johnston's job made him put on many hats - Native Americans were contacted, worked and treated with, traded with, as well as simply cared for on an agency. Treaties were worked on and completed, negotiations undertaken, but there were simpler everyday tasks to perform as well - Native men and their families were cared for, fed, and given a safe haven in times of need. At one time, during the War of 1812, the members of the Delaware Nation - counting in the hundreds - were brought to Johnston's agency to be cared for on their trek to their new home in the west. As might be expected, the local inhabitants of the nearby city of Piqua were not too happy. They even went so far as to petition the governor of Ohio to have the natives removed.

The event this weekend touched on many of these things. Jim Johnson of Troy, a member of the Shamanic Institute, represented the native aspect. Set up in the Indian Agency office, Jim spoke of native beliefs and customs while helping anyone who wanted to, to make a medicine bag. Sycamore Springs Clothiers, owner and operated by Beverly Smith and Kitty Thompson, represented the trade end of the business. Johnston carried many items on his land for trade. John Heater and Sheri Barhorst were on hand to demonstrate European and Native weaving. Nancy Weatherhead worked on the lucette, creating a knotted cord as Mrs. Johnston and her daughters would have done.

The day's special feature was a talk given by Robert Bowman on the Johnston's son, Abraham Robinson Johnston. Known to the family as Robinson, he was killed during the pivotal battle of the western campaign of the Mexican War, dying in 1846 at the Battle of San Pasqual. Bob used a powerpoint presentation to showcase the all too brief life and death of John Johnston's second son. Also in attendance that day were Richard Rozevink and David Bennett representing the agency during the War of 1812, when General William Henry Harrison was encamped at Upper Piqua before going to free Fort Wayne (IN) from the seige laid to it by the British and opposing Indians.

This event will repeat in the 2010 season with a special first person presentation of John Johnston's mother, Elizabeth Bernard Johnston. Elizabeth will speak of what it was like for the family to live in an agency house and to deal with the danger brought to it by the war.

Mark your calendars!

Elizabeth Johnston Jones 1807 -1878, Queen of the Queen City

2009-07-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

On September 22, 1807 Elizabeth Johnston was born in blockhouse #1, Fort Wayne, IN. At the time Fort Wayne was still, literally, a fort. She would have come into the world when her father John was US Factor to the Indians. Her earliest years would have been spent in the company of her brother Stephen, for her sister, Rebecca, died approximately 6 months before she was born. This made Elizabeth, the eldest daughter of the family. As such, as a young girl and teen, she seems to have been the little 'mommy' to her younger siblings. Elizabeth's existing letters reveal a woman who cares deeply for her extended family and is concerned about the proper order of things. These traits epitomized her adult life as the wife of John D. Jones of Cincinnati, one of the Queen City's premiere merchants.

Elizabeth was married on her sixteenth birthday to John Davies Jones, ten years her senior, in the Upper Piqua farmhouse September 22, 1823. While marriage near this age was not unusual in the early 1800s, she was still a very young bride. The household she kept in Cincinnati would have taken all of her young attention and energy to manage. Elizabeth and her husband supported the city’s many charitable organizations, including founding an institution for orphans, and their children were involved in the bank and railroad industries, several serving as presidents of major companies. Three of her sons served the Union side in the War Between the States. Col. William Graham Jones was killed in action at the Battle of Chickamagua, TN

Living in Cincinnati, the family was subject to the frequent outbreaks of cholera common to the time. The losses - which included three daughters lost in a period of less than two years -seem to have left Elizabeth's physical strength fragile. Her brother Stephen expresses concern for her in several of his extant letters, wishing she could avail herself of the 'sulfurous waters' in order to heal. As eldest surviving child of John Johnston, she served as her father’s executor. Elizabeth died November 19, 1878, at the age of 71 and is buried in Cincinnati.

Catharine Johnston Holtzbecher to A. R. Johnston, Cincinnati Sept. 23rd, 1840

My dear Brother,
I wrote you some time since if you had no objection I would take the money after paying your debts and purchase some articles for sister Margaret. I waited until yesterday for answer and decided not to wait any longer as I was going to Piqua. Supposing you would be glad to do anything for her in your power I purchased a handsome shawl and breast pin enclosing our dear mother’s hair for her and some other small articles she had need of. Write to me soon and tell me if I have done what is proper. Good bye and believe me your affectionate sister.
Elizabeth Jones
AR Johnston

John Johnston to AR Johnston, Columbus Ohio Dec. 20, 1834

Elizabeth had the great misfortune to loose her only daughter and namesake by the cholera somewhere about the beginning of the last month. Being the third child she has buried her health since has been bad, but the last account she was recovering from the effects of her trouble.

Stephen Johnston to John Johnston July 19th, 1847

I was desirous that Sister Elizabeth should have joined us. I believe that these baths, with the use of the Sulfurous waters afterwards, would have done her great service.

Rebecca Johnston I, 1805-1807, the lost child

2009-04-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Last month, I ended my post on Stephen Johnston by stating that his sister, Elizabeth, would be the focus of the second post in the series on the Johnston children. In doing so, I did disservice to the Johnston's second child, a little girl who lived less than three years. In the annals of history, this is but a heartbeat - if that. Still, Rebecca was once a living, breathing, laughing and loving child and as such, deserves to be remembered.

And so, here is the story of Rebecca Johnston I.

John and Rachel Johnston's second child, Rebecca, was born September 03, 1805 at Fort Wayne in the Indian Territory (present day Fort Wayne, IN). Like her sister, Elizabeth, it can be assumed that Rebecca was born in the safety of one of the fort's blockhouses, though this is not known for certain. Of all the Johnstons' children we know the least about Rebecca. According to the family Bible, she died April 26th, 1807 at the tender age of 2 years, 7 months and 23 days. Fort Wayne, like any far-flung frontier outpost, was filled with sickness, or what were known as 'billious' fevers. In a letter dated 1804, John Johnston states that ‘for twelve months I had it with scarcely any interruption, every summer it is looked for as regular as the season comes. Nothing but my poverty and the circumstances of the Secretary of War having placed me here would have induced me to continue at this place on account of its unhealthiness.’ Another letter of the same time relates that his wife, Rachel, has also been ill. Most likely, the baby, Rebecca, died of one of these fevers.

When one studies the past, it quickly becomes apparent that the death of a child was not an uncommon thing. In fact, it was to be expected. The average for the era the Johnstons lived in was that half of a family's children would die under the age of six. So did that make the loss any easier to accept than it is today? A letter of John Johnston's recently found and transcribed seems to answer that question. It is written to his daughter, Mary Reynolds, and dated 1852. After speaking of the recent burial of her brothers Robinson and Stephen, and of her younger sister, Margaret (all of whom died within three years of each other in the 1840s), John states: 'All my loved dead are there now in one enclosure, except that dear child who died at Fort Wayne 50 years ago, and which I once endeavored in vain to recover, the War of 1812 having obliterated all localities.' Fifty years had passed, but John Johnston still regretted having to leave Rebecca behind.

There is a marker in the family cemetery with Rebecca's name on it. In this way, John Johnston made certain his eldest daughter, brief as her life was, would never be forgotten.

Next time: Elizabeth Johnston Jones

Stephen Johnston, Son of the Sea 1803-1848 by Marla Fair

2009-04-09T17:12:00.000-07:00

Our series on the children of John and Rachel Johnston begins with their eldest son, Stephen.

Stephen Johnston was born April 02, 1803 in Fort Wayne, IN during the time his father, John, served as United States Factor to the Indians. At the time, the Johnstons lived in the Factor's House near the fort, which was a two story building. The family occupied the upper level. Cooks, interpreters and Indians occupied the lower floor. It is likely Stephen was born in one of the fort's blockhouses as his sister, Elizabeth, was years later, though we have no proof of this. Fort Wayne at the time was a typical frontier post replete with natives, soldiers, traders and trappers and it may have been deemed safer for a woman to give birth within the fort itself. Fort Wayne Gateway of the West 1802 – 1813: Garrison Orderly Books Indian Agency Account Books, 1927 , is filled with references to court-martialed officers, brawls, and duels being fought in the streets. It must have been an exciting if dangerous world for a young boy to grow up in.

Stephen Johnston was 8 years old at the time the family move to the farm at Upper Piqua. During the years Piqua served as the Indian Agency for the Shawnee and several other tribes, John Johnston was often gone for weeks, even months at a time. Stephen, as eldest son, would have had to grow up quickly and to shoulder adult responsibilites at a young age. This may explain why he entered the navy - his chosen career - at a much older date than most.

Stephen Johnston left home in 1823 at the age of 20 to join the United States Navy. His early years as a midshipman found him patrolling America's coasts. In 1830, just before being promoted to lieutenant, he took a trip to Russia. In 1838 Stephen Johnston and Elizabeth Clark Anderson were married in Louisville, KY. Elizabeth Clark Anderson was the great-niece of George Rogers Clark. A short time later the couple were parted when Stephen’s naval career resumed.

For the next few years, Stephen was stationed in the states and had some hopes of obtaining a position that would keep him permanently on land. According to a letter written by his father, John, these hopes were futile. The men of the family were committed Whigs, John remarked, and, as such, out of favor with those in power. Shortly after this, Stephen recieved orders to report to sea for what would prove to be his final voyage.

Stephen Johnston was appointed First Lieutenant of the ship Columbus, the flagship of the East India Squadron, under the command of Commodore Biddle. From 1846 to 1848 the Columbus traveled to China and Japan and was instrumental in beginning trade with both nations. Some time during this voyage, Stephen took ill. The nature of his illness is unknown, though the symptoms mimicked tuberculosis. Stephen was sent to the Sulphur Springs in Virginia in hopes of improving his health, but his condition continued to disintegrate and he died in Louisville Kentucky in 1848 at the age of 45.

Stephen and his wife had three daughters. Nell died in infancy. Hebe and Elizabeth (known as Lily) both lived and married.

Stephen Johnston to John Johnston, May 10, 1833

Partly owing to my time being much employed, and partly to our sailing sooner than I had expected, I did not write you from Norfolk. All the ladies is (sic) seasick which circumstances does not make them more beautiful or interesting. I like the ladies on shore everywhere but at sea, with my will, not one ever should get afloat.

Stephen Johnston to AR Johnston, Brooklyn, May 2, 1841

We this morning received the letter which I send you now bringing the melancholy intelligence of the death of our Poor sister Rebecca at a time when her hopes and wishes for the future were excited to the highest degree…. In a few short months we as a family have been called upon to mourn the departure of two of our nearest relatives, a melancholy event that has not taken place in the same circle for the thirty three years proceeding…. Within the range of my knowledge I do not now recollect an instance when a family had been so highly favoured by kind Providence by the absence of death among its members as our own.

Next installment: Elizabeth Johnston Jones, Cincinnati royalty

A Baker's Dozen and Then Some by Marla F. Fair

2009-03-26T17:43:00.000-07:00

John Johnston was a prolific man. He was well known for his excellent handwriting and keen mind, for his involvement in politics, for his strong sense of justice and caring work with Native Americans. He was also a leader in the Episcopalian church, a member of the Free and Accepted Order of Masons, and an innovative farmer. But he was prolific in one thing more than in any other -

And that was in having children!

John Johnston and his wife, Rachel Hoping Robinson Johnston were married for 38 years. During that time they had 15 children, and there was not one set of twins or triplets among them. They were born from 1803 to 1830. That averages out to one new baby approximately every eighteen months for nearly 30 years! Though such an accomplishment is not unheard of today (look at the so-called Octo-mom), in the Johnstons' time it was done without benefit of fertility drugs and was, in reality, somewhat commonplace. What was uncommon was that fourteen out of the fifteen Johnston children lived to adulthood. The average at the time was that one-half of a family's children would die under the age of six. With the exception of one small girl who died while the family lived at Fort Wayne in the Indian Territory, all of the Johnston children lived to reach maturity.

Among the Johnstons' boys were officers of the army and navy, a farmer, several merchants and an artist. Their girls were mothers and matriarchs of well-established families. While some never left Ohio, the other children’s lives took them to such far flung places as California, Japan and Russia. Their eldest son Stephen traveled over 30,000 miles to the China sea, while their second son, Abraham Robinson, took part in one of the longest marches ever undertaken by the US Army, traveling on horseback and foot approximately 2000 miles from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas to a point near present day San Diego, CA.

Over the next few months a series exploring the lives of each of the Johnston children will post to the blog. As author, I will look at each child in turn, going from eldest to youngest, employing quotes and photos where they are available. The story of the Johnston children is the story of America in her 'teens'. The American Revolution is over. The Civil War is decades away. What America is concerned with is learning how to stand on her own feet and walk proudly into adulthood.

Just like the Johnston kids.

Coming soon: Stephen Johnston, 1803-1848, Son of the Sea

Photos of John and Rachel Johnston are from the collection of the Ohio Historical Society

2009-03-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

The Piqua Historical Area and Johnston Farm celebrates two thousand years of Ohio's rich history from prehistoric Indians to Ohio's canal era. The focal point of the peaceful 200-acre park is John Johnston--farmer, public official, and United States Indian Agent for western Ohio from 1812 to 1829. Here Johnston's numerous contributions to the growth of early Ohio and settlement of frontier America are presented in a truly unique and beautiful setting. Today, visitors enjoy the home and farm of this most extraordinary man much as it appeared in 1829.

Preserved and furnished structures include Johnston's two-story mixed Dutch Colonial/Georgian style farmhouse, a unique two-story spring house, and a cider house. Costumed interpreters and craft demonstrators provide farm tours and display activities in the summer kitchen and fruit kiln areas. A mammoth double-penned log barn, constructed in 1808, is reputed to be the oldest and largest of its type in Ohio, and is still in use on the grounds. Nearby a ring-shaped mound earthwork discovered and preserved by Johnston was constructed by people of the Adena culture over 2,000 years ago.

Not far from Johnston's farm is a modern museum, which was constructed to resemble the blockhouse style of Fort Piqua, General Anthony Wayne's 18th century supply post. In 2001 the museum was renovated with updated exhibits that trace the story of the Eastern Woodland Indians of Ohio and the newly acquired Pickawillany site. Artifacts from Ohio's canal era are also on exhibit. Restroom facilities, snacks, and a gift shop are located in the museum. The patio portion of the museum building allows visitors the opportunity to view a restored mile-long section of the Miami and Erie Canal, which extended the length of Ohio from Toledo to Cincinnati. An array of outdoor interpretive panels explore Johnston's later role as a state canal commissioner and provide an introduction to how canals helped in the development and expansion of frontier Ohio.

Afterwards, guests may enjoy a ride aboard the General Harrison of Piqua, a replica 70 foot-long mixed cargo canal boat often used for transportation of passengers and cargo in the 19th century. Costumed guides direct the mule-drawn boat to provide an authentic and memorable experience for all.

The Piqua Historical Area State Memorial was established as Ohio's 47th state historic site in 1965. The Johnston farm and Miami & Erie Canal areas were formally opened on 3 September 1972, with the dedication of the museum facility following on 20 May 1973. Today the site is administered through the Ohio Historical Society's Site Operations Department.

For site hours and 2009 events check out the righthand sidebar on the Johnston Farm Ohio blog.

Welcome to Johnston Farm

2009-03-06T19:47:00.000-08:00

In a letter dated Monday February 16, 1846, John Johnston wrote to his son-in-law Jefferson Patterson stating, "I long for the spring when I can go abroad in the open air...."

I think we can all identify with that.

The staff at the Piqua Historical Area and Johnston Farm is looking forward to the upcoming 2009 season. We hope you will come and visit, and enjoy all the site has to offer. This blog will be the place to find out what is happening at our site. Within the next few weeks we will be posting our hours and a list of our 2009 events. Look for thoughts from the site manager and blog entries from our staff on topics ranging from ancient mounds to just how a lady dyed her hair in 1828. There will be posts regarding John Johnston and his family, as well as his dealings with the Indians. And we might even throw in a few recipes for dishes that would have brought all 15 Johnston children running to the supper table.

Anyone feel like a nice dish of pickled beef?

History is a precious thing. It teaches us about the past, but also about our present selves and the future. For both adults and children, it provides a way to put current events in perspective. We are all aware of the country's current economic woes. This site, like other historic sites all across America, is facing hard times. So are the wonderful people who support and visit us. At the moment, the future looks anything but promising. But did you know that this is not the first (or the second or third) time America has faced such a challenge? History shows us there is hope.

The following are John Johnston's words from January of 1840, written to his son, Robinson:

The time, as it is called, is becoming more and more critical. The produce of our farms no longer yields us an equivalent for our labour. There is no money. No confidence. Every kind of business is prostrate. Credit blasted. The very foundations of society is unsettled by the unwise and wicked legislation of ignorant and incompetent men. Here in Ohio our condition is most deplorable. The banks which possess all the available capital of the state are unable to loan a dollar to anyone. The credit of the state is annihilated. The progress of our canal and roads must be stopped. The most fearful prospect is before us. No man can tell how, when or where relief is to come from. Such is the effect of ignorance, presumption and folly being set up to rule.

John Johnston lived to see a brighter day and to take that walk in the open air. So will we.

Johnston Farm & Indian Agency

Johnston Farm & Indian Agency

2012 Season Hours

Groups By Appointment: April, May, September, & October: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Open to the Public: June, July, and August: Thursday & Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Saturday & Sunday Noon - 5:00 p.m.

April 21: A Springtime Hike at the Johnston Farm

June 9 & 10: Family Days at the Johnston Farm

July 7 & 8: Life on an Indian Agency

August 11: An Evening of Feasting, Music, & Canawling - Reservation Event

October 13: Celebrate Fall at the Johnston Farm

December 1: Christmas on the Johnston Farm - Reservation Event

ChipIn campaign

Stepping into the past

An Evening in Pickawillany recap

An Evening in Pickawillany - April 7th, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.

HYPE seeks 365 Ways to Have Fun in Miami County

Johnston Farm and Indian Agency accredited by the American Association of Museums in Washington, D.C.,

Support History Day

Johnston Farm Life on an Indian Agency

Johnston Farm Family Fun Day June 2010

Signing of Johnston Book at the Piqua Taste of the Arts Festival May 21st, 2010

History Day Update - Ruolin Yang goes on to State!

History Day Project - Individual Website made by Ruolin Yang

A Dickens of a good time was had by all!

William Bernard Johnston - The Merchant 1824-1890

Two days and counting...

***New date for DICKENS IN OHIO event***

DICKENS IN OHIO March 18th, 2010

John Henry Dearborn Johnston - The Reluctant Farmer 1820 -1863

Rebecca Johnston II, The Gentle Spirit 1818-1841

Rachel P. Johnston, Sihouette of a Sister 1816 - ?

Abraham Robinson Johnston - Soldier, Scholar and Favorite Son

Mary Johnston McLean, An Enduring Spirit 1813-1877

Julia Johnston Patterson, Matriarch 1811-1897

Rosanna Johnston, 1809 - 1844, A simple gift

Hello!

Life on an Indian Agency July event report

Elizabeth Johnston Jones 1807 -1878, Queen of the Queen City

Rebecca Johnston I, 1805-1807, the lost child

Stephen Johnston, Son of the Sea 1803-1848 by Marla Fair

A Baker's Dozen and Then Some by Marla F. Fair

Welcome to Johnston Farm

New date for DICKENS IN OHIO event