The land that eventually became the Village of Amsden in Jackson Township once bordered the Great Black Swamp. Thanks to the perseverance of early settlers, the mosquito-infested marshland was tamed and settled, making way for development and the eventual arrival of the LE & W Railroad Company that spurred further growth in the village. The supplies and people the train carried to town, coupled with the area’s natural resources, allowed early pioneers to build their village and build their future.
Among the early buildings constructed in the village was the Amsden Church, which was built by the Methodist Episcopal Church as a memorial for Union Soldiers of the American Civil War. The church’s stained glass windows contain symbols of the National Women’s Relief Corp of the GAR and badges of the units of the Grand Army of the Republic from Ohio.
To celebrate the community’s inspiring history, the Amsden United Methodist Church (UMC) will hold an open house on Sunday, May 5 from 2 to 4 p.m. Lois Trumpler, a long-time resident of Amsden and a member of Amsden UMC, 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. Historical pictures and articles will be available for viewing throughout the afternoon. The building’s unique history earned the church a place on the Secrets of Seneca County Historical Driving Tour. More information on the tour can be found at https://www.destinationsenecacounty.org/seneca-county-bicentennial.
The Bicentennial Committee welcomes the public to the open house to learn more about the Amsden church and community. The church is located at 8180 W. CR 28 in Amsden. The program is free, but donations are welcome.