On Sunday May 5th, the Amsden United Methodist Church will hold an open house from 2pm-4pm and all are welcome! Lois Trumpler, a long-time resident of Amsden and member of the Amsden Church, will give a 30 minute presentation on the history of the Amsden area and church. Visitors will be able to see the original features of the church and windows from the inside. There will also be historical pictures and articles available for viewing throughout the afternoon. This is a free event and those who are participating in the Secrets of Seneca County Historical Driving Tour (learn more here) can take advantage of getting to explore the inside of this stop in Jackson Township! The Seneca County Bicentennial Committee extends a warm invitation to all to join in a celebration of community and heritage.
In the heart of Seneca County, nestled on the fringes of the once-impenetrable Black Swamp, lies the charming village of Amsden. Established amidst the trials and tribulations of the mid-1800s, this settlement stood as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit against nature’s harshest whims. Life in Amsden during its infancy was akin to a battle against the elements. Mosquitoes danced in swarms, and the howls of wolves echoed through the marshy landscape, making every day a struggle for survival. Yet, undeterred by these adversities, the pioneers of Amsden forged ahead, laboring tirelessly to clear the land and drain its marshy waters.
The advent of the LE & W Railroad breathed new life into Amsden, connecting it to bustling hubs like Fostoria and Sandusky. Like arteries pumping vitality into the village, the railroad brought prosperity, as small businesses and homesteads sprouted along its path. Where once stood wilderness, now stood a thriving community. Amidst the hustle and bustle of progress, the Amsden Church emerged as a beacon of hope and unity. Erected by the Methodist Episcopal Church, it stood not only as a place of worship but also as a memorial to the brave Union Soldiers who fought in the crucible of the American Civil War. The stained-glass windows, adorned with symbols of honor and sacrifice, whispered tales of courage and resilience to all who entered.
Fast forward to the present day, and the Amsden Church stands as a timeless testament to the enduring spirit of its founders. During this weekend’s event, visitors are invited to embark on a journey through time, exploring the rich tapestry of Amsden’s past. So come, wanderer, and heed the call of history. Step through the hallowed halls of the Amsden Church, where the echoes of the past mingle with the whispers of the present. For in this sacred space, the legacy of Amsden lives on, a testament to the enduring spirit of a community forged in the crucible of time.
Learn more about the Seneca County Bicentennial here.
