This week, we welcomed a team from Ohio Valley Archaeology, Inc. to the Copus Hill Historic Site to conduct ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and magnetometer scans—thanks to a generous grant from the Richland County Historical Society. These high-tech tools allow us to “see” beneath the surface without disturbing the ground. GPR detects buried objects and soil changes, while the magnetometer identifies variations in the earth’s magnetic field—both critical for locating potential archaeological features or unmarked burials. Before any plans for the site move forward, it’s essential we understand what lies beneath. These scans help ensure we preserve the history and sanctity of this important site. It will still be a few weeks before all the data is interpreted, but we look forward to seeing the results! (fb)

Throwback Thursday to “Apple Blossom Time” in Loudonville! On Thursday, March 27, 1930, the Loudonville High School Junior Class (Class of 1931) performed their class play, Apple Blossom Time, at the Loudonville Opera House. Directed by Miss Florence Rowland, the production was a lively slice of small-town life brought to the stage by a spirited cast of students. The cast included: Richard Pennel as Bob Mathew, an unwilling visitor at the crossroads Charles Getz as Charlie Lawrence, his go-getter friend Kenneth Paullin as Spud McClosky, direct from Sunshine Alley Vaughn Weirick as Cal Pickens, the village constable Gail Strang as Betty Ann Stewart, a human little whirlwind Eula Raby as Nancy Prescott, a pretty neighbor Freda Bird and Mabel Ann Temple as Loretta Harris, the prettiest girl in the village Olive Gilbert as Polly Briddle, caretaker of Tad Forrest’s home Garnette Parcell as Malvena Kurtz, whose ambition is to have a beau Rosella Stitzlein as Mrs. Forrest, the haughty sister-in-law of Tad Forrest Margaret Wolf as Annabel Spreggins, the village old maid The order of the cast in the photo is unfortunately unknown—but the enthusiasm and creativity of these students still shine through nearly a century later. Were any of these names familiar to your family? We’d love to hear your stories! (fb)