Stemtown Historical Society Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Stemtown Historical Society to preserve the history of Green Springs located in Sandusky and Seneca County, Ohio. Such pursuit shall include the gathering and dissemination of historical knowledge, the collection and preservation of things historical, and the fostering of an appreciation of our historical heritage, for the education and benefit of the Society's members and the general public.

The Stemtown Historical Society, founded in 1979, emerged from the vision of eleven community members during a pivotal Green Springs council meeting. Proposing the establishment of the Society, they embarked on a journey to preserve the rich history of Green Springs, Ohio. At its inception, Claude Young assumed the role of the first President, and the Society found its roots in a quaint house on East Morgan Street, formerly owned by the Watrous family. A dedicated outbuilding was erected to house an expanding collection of artifacts.

In the spring of 2023, facing a challenge to the structural integrity of their original location, the Society made the difficult decision to close the museum temporarily. Determined to secure a new home, they were buoyed by the generous donation of $40,000 from Bud Rutherford in memory of his late wife Maxine. This benevolent contribution enabled the purchase of the former Calvary Church on South Kansas Street, seamlessly transitioning the Society from Sandusky County to Seneca County, while retaining its Green Springs identity.

The Stemtown Historical Society is on a noble mission to safeguard the history of Green Springs across Sandusky and Seneca counties. Their pursuits encompass the gathering and dissemination of historical knowledge, meticulous preservation of artifacts, and the cultivation of an appreciation for historical heritage. The museum not only serves as an informative hub about the Green Springs area but also envisions itself as a research facility, meeting space, and a host of engaging events suitable for all ages.

Why the name Stemtown? Founded by Jacob Stem in 1831, the village was known as Stemtown until its survey in 1839. Renamed Greenspring due to the color of the water in the spring north of the village, it evolved into Green Spring and ultimately Green Springs. The village's claim to fame lies in being home to the world’s largest natural Sulphur spring.

Operated by a dedicated group of volunteers, the Stemtown Historical Society holds nonprofit status as a 501(c)3 organization. Their curator, a subcontractor, collaborates with the enthusiastic board members listed below. With a small yet committed group of volunteers, they sustain their operations through generous donations, membership dues, and grants. Their doors remain open, welcoming the community to partake in learning, research, activities, and camaraderie. Admission to the museum is free, and donations are warmly embraced. Join the Stemtown Historical Society on their mission to be a cherished community space for exploration, education, and enjoyment.

Stemtown Historical Society Board  

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Are you passionate about what we're doing? Let us know! We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you. We're excited to have you join the team!

Whether you help through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or spreading our mission through word-of-mouth, thank you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you.