Historian to headline America 250 event

PORT CLINTON — As the nation prepares for its 250th anniversary, the Ohio State Parks Foundation is bringing the celebration to the shores of Lake Erie. Renowned presidential historian, author and CNN contributor Douglas Brinkley will headline a special America 250 event on Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Camp Perry Conference Center. The presentation, "The Battle of Lake Erie: Its Impact on Our Nation," highlights Ohio's crucial role in one of the defining naval victories of the War of 1812. Beyond the history of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's decisive victory, the afternoon marks the launch of the foundation's new "History in the Parks" initiative. The program aims to create a sustainable endowment to purchase historical artifacts and host educational speakers for state parks across Ohio. A portion of the proceeds from the August event will directly fund the new endowment. Lisa Daris, executive director of the Ohio State Parks Foundation, said the endowment provides a critical safety net for preserving local history. "Currently there is no sustainable fund in place to assist when artifacts are located or come up for sale," Daris said. "The foundation will work with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to explore what artifacts will be most beneficial to tell the story of the various parks as the endowment is created and built." Daris noted that many Ohio parks harbor fascinating histories waiting to be shared. She pointed to Middle Bass Island State Park, which once housed the largest winery in the nation and features an on-site museum. Other locations hold deeper historical significance, such as Kelleys Island State Park with its ancient glacial grooves and Great Council and Independence Dam state parks, which preserve the story of Ohio's native heritage. Dr. Marcia Sloan Latta, chair of the Ohio State Parks Foundation and senior philanthropy advisor at the University of Findlay, emphasized the connection between Ohio's public lands and its past. "Few places in America connect our natural landscapes and national history quite like Lake Erie," Latta said. "We're honored to welcome Douglas Brinkley for an unforgettable afternoon of storytelling, history, patriotism and reflection on the enduring importance of Ohio's state parks and historic places." Brinkley grew up in Perrysburg and graduated from Ohio State University. He frequently writes about the intersection of history, public lands and the American spirit. The event runs from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Attendees can purchase tickets starting at $75 online at ohiostateparksfoundation.org. The foundation notes that other state parks are planning and adding events to celebrate America 250 across the state, with a full schedule available at ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/news/america-250-events.