The celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary has brought to light a variety of connections for Guernsey County, Ohio. Including its early immigrants from its namesake, the Islands of Guernsey.
The Islands of Guernsey are hidden gems. Situated just off the Normandy coast of France in the English Channel, Guernsey is just 65 square kilometers in size. As a beautiful archipelago of Islands, there are not one, but five Islands to explore: Guernsey, Alderney, Herm, Sark and Lihou, each naturally beautiful and diverse. The islands are rich in history, natural beauty and coastal allure.
“During the course of the past year, we have worked to establish a genuine relationship with our Isle of Guernsey cousins and collaborate with them to promote the things that make us both unique and similar – such as our scenic landscapes and historical points of interest,” said Debbie Robinson, Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB Executive Director.
The perfect place to learn about those connections in Guernsey County, Ohio, is the Guernsey County History Museum. The museum encompasses entertaining and interesting treasures from the past, along with hands-on experiences – including a one-room schoolhouse and a coal mine replica – perfect for kids to explore.
History buffs may also trace their family roots at the Guernsey County Genealogical Society. The society houses county records, including birth, death and marriage records, tax records, family history books and cemetery reading books.
Other must-see stops include the Byesville Historical Museum and National Road & Zane Grey Museum. The Byesville Historical Museum is housed in a historic bank building and features a collection of vintage photographs and artifacts. The National Road & Zane Grey Museum beautifully tells the story of the building of the National Road (US RT 40) and features an exhibit of the famed Ohio author Zane Grey.
For a complete list of historic points of interest and upcoming events, see https://visitguernseycounty.com/local-events/