Worthington Historical Society Celebrates the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner, and once again the Worthington Historical Society will host some special events. Here are a few you don’t want to miss.

Orange Johnson House Holiday Open Houses

Dec. 2, 9 & 16 from 1 – 5 p.m.

Orange Johnson House

956 North High Street

Free admission

During these annual Open Houses, the historic Orange Johnson House is decorated for the holidays, and docents are dressed in costumes from the early 1800s. Tours of the house are available, along with light refreshments and musical entertainment in the parlor.

The Orange Johnson House is one of Central Ohio’s oldest residences standing in its original location. Built in 1811 by Arora Buttles, the house still has its original kitchen and open fireplace with a large iron crane and bread oven. In 1816, Orange Johnson purchased the house and built the front portion, a Federal-style addition with four, main rooms—each with a fireplace and mantel. Today the house is finished with period pieces, some of which have a connection to early Worthington families and activities.

Children’s Holiday Events

Dec. 1, 8 & 15 from 5 – 9 p.m.

Orange Johnson House

956 North High Street

$20/child

This holiday program for children in grades 3 through 5 includes traditional fireplace cooking, Christmas stories, games, crafts, singing, a house tour—and gifts from a famous visitor at the end of the evening. Participants will use the fireplace to make corn oysters, applesauce, cornbread and pumpkin pudding. (Note: Pre-registration takes place at the Orange Johnson House on Nov. 12 & 13 from 7 to 8 p.m.)

Wishbone Doll Making

Dec. 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Griswold Center

777 North High Street

$2/child

If you thought wishbones were only good for wishing, think again. At this event, you can learn how to use the wishbone from your Thanksgiving turkey to make a traditional wishbone doll. Find out why wishbone dolls were popular in the early 1800s, and then make your very own outfit and fabric head. (Note: Pre-register through the Worthington Parks & Recreation Department at 614/436-2743.)

For more information about holiday events in Worthington, visit our event calendar at http://visitworthingtonohio.com/calendar/.