Our History
The Richmond Area Historical and Genealogical Society (RAHGS) is a non-profit organization established in January 1990 when a group of citizens gathered in the Richmond Public Library to pursue a common interest: the preservation of a 19th Century one-room schoolhouse, which then was located in the middle of a cornfield owned by James McKiernan of Richmond Township.
Shortly thereafter, the newly formed Society was offered a former Grand Trunk Railroad Depot from Columbus Township, which was located at that time on private property on Rattle Run owned by Joseph Maranzano. Members and interested individuals were able to save these historic buildings from the wrecking ball by moving them to the Bailey Park property donated by the City of Richmond.
IIn 1996, the descendants of John Donley, formerly of Lenox Township, donated a log cabin, complete with outhouse, which was also moved to the park.
IIn 2007 the Society raised funds and built a replica Blacksmith Shop to sit alongside the historic buildings. The building was completed in the spring of 2009 and serves as a museum, office space, and additional storage.
Our Mission
- To share with others the legacy left us by our forefathers, the migrants from the East and the immigrants from Europe, who with foresight and conviction built a better future.
- To honor and remember those who cleared the land, grew the crops, educated the young, and pay homage to those who fought in the wars and sacrificed their lives for something they believed in.
- To encourage our community leaders to preserve the few historical buildings remaining today.
- To provide assistance to those who turn to us for help in finding their roots.
2012 Society Officers
President: Christine
Rowley
Vice-President:
Patrick McClellan
Treasurer: Lori
Nye
Secretary: Richard Weinert
Directors:
Norm Gibson
Mary Ellen Shepherd-Logan
Gil Orris
The Board of Directors meet the first Monday of
the month at 7:00pm in the Blacksmith Shop/Museum. All board meetings
are open to the public.
