The Charlestown Historical Society was pleased to recently host Tim Morgan, the State Environmental Supervisor, who has worked at the site of the Ravenna Army Ammunition Plant for 37 years. The topic of his presentation was “An Inside Look at the Ravenna Army Ammunition Plant.” The 55 people in attendance listened intently to his informative and interesting talk that took us from the origin of what is commonly referred to as “the arsenal” through to its’ use today as a training facility for the Ohio National Guard known as Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center.
He addressed one of the most common misconceptions about why our area was chosen for the the location of the arsenal. It has been long thought to be due to the many cloud covered days we have in Northeast Ohio. However, this had nothing to do with it. The location was chosen because it was a large tract of level land away from the coasts. The land was inexpensive with labor, materials and two railroads in close proximity. Beginning in December 1939 through 1940, the U.S. Government purchased 22,000 acres enacting the right of eminent domain. The area purchased at the cost of 1.8 million was comprised mostly of farms with 250 homes and 1300 people displaced. They were given 30 days to vacate.
His power point display and maps showed the locations of the many ammunition ‘igloos’ and all the buildings constructed to enable the manufacturing of live ammunition to supply the need of WWII. He spoke of the extensive reclamation process that has taken place there over the years. Photos showed the training facilities and barracks for todays ‘use and also some beautiful woodlands and pristine creeks. I am sure everyone there left with a greater knowledge of the function and preservation of this massive property.
There will be a Charlestown Community Chili Cook-Off Saturday, February 15 at Charlestown United Methodist Church, located at 6408 Rock Spring Rd., Ravenna. Participants should arrive with their entries at 5p.m. with tasting from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.. All are welcome to come. Bring your family favorite chili, come just to taste or both! Please bring with you a card with a list of ingredients and name of your chili. Everyone attending will be given three tickets to vote for your favorites. Prizes and bragging rights will be awarded. Alternative soups, cornbread, veggie and cheese trays, desserts and beverages will be served. If you would like to enter your chili, please text 330-931-1860 and leave your name and number. There is no charge for this event. Donations will be accepted.
The Charlestown Activity Committee met recently to set the calendar of events for 2025. Each event will be announced in this column, on the digital sign at the center and on Facebook. Save this information so you won’t miss anything!
Saturday, April 12, 1 p.m. - EASTER EGG HUNT
Sunday, May 25, 11 a.m. - MEMORIAL DAY PARADE AND SERVICE
Saturday, June 7, 9a.m.-4p.m. - COMMUNITY YARD SALE DAY
Saturday, Aug. 2, 3-7p.m. - SUMMER FESTIVAL AND CAR SHOW
Sunday, Oct. 26, 2-4p.m. - TRUNK OR TREAT/BOO! AT THE PARK
Saturday, Dec. 13, beginning at 5p.m. - SANTA'S SPECIAL DELIVERY
Monday, Dec. 22, - JUDGING FOR THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTING CONTEST
Please contact me at [email protected] with any community news, information or announcements.
