CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – The Ohio History Connection (OHC) is set to take direct management of Adena Mansion & Gardens, a significant historical site and former home of Thomas Worthington, Ohio’s sixth governor and a pivotal figure in the state’s founding. This transition, effective by February 14, marks a return to OHC’s direct oversight since first assuming stewardship in 1946.
For over a decade, the Adena Mansion & Gardens Society (AMGS) has managed the day-to-day operations of the estate, which draws visitors from across Ohio and beyond. Megan Wood, Executive Director and CEO of OHC, acknowledged the Society’s contributions.
“We are thankful for the years of excellent service by the Adena Mansion & Gardens Society, whose board and members have truly been dedicated to helping local history flourish at this site,” said Wood. She added that direct management aligns with OHC’s goals to position high-profile sites like Adena as premier visitor destinations.
Don Gatchell, Vice Chair of the AMGS board, expressed gratitude for the partnership with OHC. “It has been a rewarding experience,” Gatchell said. “Thanks to our community, we have had the opportunity to share the stories of early Chillicothe and the Worthington family. Our board looks forward to the heights this site can achieve under the full-time management of the Ohio History Connection.”
Adena Mansion: Challenges and the Path Ahead
This development comes amidst previous reports by the Guardian highlighting operational challenges at the site. In May, we reported on rising maintenance expenses, limited resources, and unmet promises from state officials that placed strain on the AMGS’s ability to sustain operations.
The Society, which receives $160,000 annually from OHC along with some maintenance support, has struggled to bridge a financial gap between revenue and expenses. Recent tax filings revealed revenue of $240,751 against expenses of $399,069, underscoring the funding shortfall.
Additionally, the site employs only two full-time staff and relies on a 74-year-old seasonal worker for maintenance, none of whom receive healthcare or retirement benefits. Equipment shortages and inconsistent maintenance support further exacerbated these issues. Despite these challenges, OHC maintained its commitment to Adena, citing ongoing efforts to preserve the estate.
A Historical Treasure with a Bright Future
Adena Mansion, situated on a 2,000-acre estate, is a cornerstone of Ohio’s history. Designed by famed architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe and completed in 1807, the restored mansion and its formal gardens offer visitors a glimpse into the life of Thomas Worthington and the state’s early years. The site serves as both an educational resource and a cultural gem for the region.
Under OHC’s full-time management, the site’s public operating hours are set to resume in April, with a renewed focus on programs and events to draw visitors from across the state and beyond. “We look forward to implementing programs and events at Adena Mansion & Gardens to keep engaging visitors from all over the state, nation, and world,” Wood said.
As Adena Mansion transitions to direct management, the community remains optimistic about its potential for growth and preservation. With OHC at the helm, the site is poised to continue its role as a beacon of Chillicothe’s and Ohio’s rich historical legacy.