How do you pay proper tribute to a bicentennial milestone? It starts with a taste of the township. Formed in 1824 from the eastern portion of Sycamore Township, Symmes Township offers a number of attractions that, to this day, make it a remarkably vibrant and unique community.
“Symmes Township has eight township parks, with more than 196 acres for our residents and the surrounding community to enjoy,” explains Administrator Kimberly Lapensee. She adds that part of the Little Miami Bike Trail is located within Symmes Township, too, right in the Camp Dennison area.
“We also have a healthy business district along our three main arteries,” she adds, spanning Montgomery Road, Fields Ertel Road and Loveland Madeira Road. “Plus, we have three active cemeteries and three fantastic school systems, all within our township—Indian Hill, Sycamore and Loveland.”
There’s more than a dash of history, as well.
“We were named after John Cleves Symmes,” Kimberly shares some notable highlights. “Camp Dennison was established as a military campsite in 1861, and Morgan’s Raiders came through there, staying at the military camp during the Civil War in 1863. Symmes was also home to the 16 Mile Stand on Montgomery Road during the era of stagecoaches. Then in 1931, Arthur Rozzi moved to Symmes Township from Pennsylvania to start his fireworks company. And don’t forget the Loveland Castle, which is actually located in Symmes Township.”
It was 200 years ago that Symmes Township became independent from Sycamore Township, and a number of celebratory events throughout this year will offer opportunities for entertainment, education, ice cream, and even a 5K run. Mark your calendars and come celebrate this boomin’ bicentennial!
CAN’T-MISS EVENTS
Fishing Tournament
Saturday, April 20 – 9 a.m.
Think you’ve got what it takes to pull in the area’s best catch? Here’s your opportunity to do just that (or have a great time cheering your neighbors on!). “Big fish” stories expected.
Seven Gables Park Dedication
Thursday, May 16 – 5–7 p.m.
A dedication at this vibrant and awesome family destination will highlight a new play structure with Dr. Suess characters (complete with a “Whoville” theme). It will also include a scavenger hunt, an art chalk contest, a roaming balloon artist, and a sweet cotton candy machine. Bonus: a Kona Ice truck will be on-site, as well. Yum!
American Heritage Day in Camp Dennison
Saturday, TBD in June
Ready for a glimpse of what life was like back in 1824, when Symmes Township was founded? Camp Dennison’s American Heritage Day will give you that opportunity, featuring historic reenactments and carriage rides. Enjoy artisans and fiddlers performing music from that period. Take in exhibits, like a spinner-weaver in action. And don’t miss demonstrations that cover what farming, cooking and blacksmithing were like back in the day.
Symmes Bicentennial Blast
Saturday, July 20 – 12 p.m.
Bicentennial Blast!? Say no more! This will be the bicentennial celebration’s cornerstone event, featuring live music, carnival games, rides and raffles, a ton of activities for the kids, mouth-watering food trucks, and a fireworks display that has to be seen to be believed. Don’t miss this one!
Harvest Festival at Meade Historical Preserve
Saturday, August 24 – 11 a.m.
A one-of-a-kind affair where patrons will experience firsthand demos of activities like cooking and beekeeping. The festival will also have a petting zoo, and a local market (with items like local honey, produce and flowers).
Ice Cream Social/Movie Night at Hopewell Meadows Park
Saturday, September 14 – 7 p.m.
This special event will feature hot dogs cooked up by our very own Symmes Township Fire Department, along with a crave-worthy ice cream truck. It’s just the ticket for those looking to gather and meet with neighbors—there’s even going to be a movie for all to enjoy on a large outdoor screen.
5K Run
Saturday, October 19 – 9 a.m.
What better way to celebrate community than to join together for a healthy 5K run? This one takes place at Home of the Brave Park. Look for registration info (and start training!).
Symmes was home to the 16 Mile Stand on Montgomery Road during the era of stagecoaches.
Symmes Township offers a number of attractions that, to this day, make it a remarkably vibrant and unique community.
