History, gardens, chickens, family activities, fascinating local stories, and community connections—there’s more to discover at the Anderson Township Historical Society than you might think. Have you ever driven past the old log house on Clough Pike and wondered what’s inside? Or passed the Urban Farm on Bartels Road and wondered what happens there? 

You may be surprised by everything the Anderson Township Historical Society (ATHS) has to offer—and you definitely don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy it! Founded in 1968, ATHS is an all-volunteer nonprofit serving Anderson Township, Mt. Washington, Newtown, and California, Ohio. 

While preserving local history is at the heart of its mission, ATHS also brings neighbors together through historic properties, gardens, education, family activities, community events, and volunteer opportunities. 

Step Inside More Than 200 Years of History 

One of Anderson Township’s most recognizable landmarks is the Miller-Leuser Log House at 6550 Clough Pike, dating to approximately 1796. The land was once part of 600 acres granted to Revolutionary War officer Captain Matthew Jouitt. In 1796, Ichabod Benton Miller purchased 440 acres for just $220. Generations of local families later called the Log House home. ATHS purchased the property in 1971, and in 1974 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. 

Today, visitors can actually step inside this piece of Anderson history. The Log House is open the first and third Sundays, May through October, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. 

What Stories Are Hiding in Your Own Attic? 

Right next door, the ATHS Research Center offers another way to discover the community’s past. Ever wonder who lived in your house years ago? Looking for an old school yearbook? Curious about your family history or remember the old Coney Island? 

The Research Center preserves family histories, cemetery records, newspapers, maps, yearbooks, military records, photographs, church and house histories, Coney Island memorabilia, and much more. Visitors can also see unique pieces from the past, including a folding typewriter, spinning wheel, vintage surveyor’s instrument, 1950s dollhouse, 100-year-old porcelain doll, and historic panoramic views of Cincinnati. 

And before you throw away old photographs, yearbooks, military items, or family records, consider ATHS. What’s hiding in your attic could be an important piece of our community’s story. 

Gardens, Chickens & Community Fun 

Think historical societies are all dusty books and old photographs? The ATHS Urban Farm at 2550 Bartels Road, next to Turpin High School, might change your mind. 

Covering more than 10 acres, the property features gardens, historic buildings, community garden plots, open green space, and the ATHS Urban Barn—complete with resident chickens! 

The chickens are especially popular with children and families, while the grounds provide a welcoming setting for community gatherings, educational programs, seasonal celebrations, picnics, garden activities, concerts, and special events. 

It’s a place where you can learn something new, enjoy the outdoors, meet your neighbors, or simply slow down and enjoy a unique part of Anderson Township. 

The Urban Farm represents what ATHS does best: honoring our past while creating new memories today. 

Making History Fun for Kids 

ATHS is also introducing a new generation to the community they call home. 

Each spring, second graders from all six Forest Hills elementary schools participate in an educational experience at Anderson Towne Center. Students learn about local government, nature, urban planning, bicycle safety, and local history. 

One of the most entertaining parts is comparing “then” and “now.” Imagine handing a second grader a rotary telephone and explaining how it works! Students also sit at antique school desks, write on slates, and look through McGuffey Readers. It’s a hands-on way to show children that history isn’t just in textbooks—it happened right here in their own backyard. 

There’s Always Something Happening 

ATHS offers activities throughout the year, from Log House open houses and educational programs to community picnics, seasonal celebrations, and Music on the Farm. 

Upcoming events include: 

October 4 – Sons of the American Revolution Experience Revolutionary War history through demonstrations, discussions, and even a cannon on site! 

October 7 – Membership Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Professor Emeritus John E. Hancock presents Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks and Travel Guide to Ancient Ohio. 

October 18 – Log House Closing Day & Celebration Celebrate the conclusion of another season at the Miller-Leuser Log House. 

November 4 – Membership Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Author Garry L. Knepp presents The Story of Camp Dennison, 1861–1865. 

Saturday, November 7 – ATHS Harvest Festival One of the biggest celebrations of the year! ATHS’s largest event features approximately 30 vendors, food trucks, live music, and more at the Urban Farm. Bring your family and friends and enjoy a fun community day! 

December 2 – Holiday Membership Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy Christmas music performed by the Anderson High School Chamber Chorale. 

Come Be Part of the Story 

You don’t have to know historical dates or be an expert on Anderson Township to enjoy ATHS. Maybe you love gardening. Maybe your kids or grandkids would enjoy the chickens. Maybe you’re curious about your home or family history. Or perhaps you enjoy community events, volunteering, and meeting new people. 

Because ATHS is an all-volunteer organization, there are many ways to get involved—from gardens and events to research, collections, school programs, and historic properties. History isn’t only about what happened hundreds of years ago. We’re making history right now. 

So, the next time you pass the Log House on Clough Pike or the Urban Farm on Bartels Road, don’t just keep driving. Stop by. Explore. Bring the kids or grandkids. Visit the chickens. Discover some local history. Meet your neighbors. 

You might be surprised by everything happening right in your own backyard.