big darby plains byway corridor management plan · the big darby creek winds its way along this...

1

Big Darby Plains Byway Corridor Management Plan

Date: Submitted in June 2015, this Byway Corridor Management Plan (CMP) is intended to

guide our byway organization in the next five years.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

Thanks is extended to all those who gave time, support, and effort to the completion of this Big

Darby Plains Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan. The following are those individuals

who volunteered their time and served in an official capacity for this process.

Committee Members:

Tina Knotts, Union County CVB

Katie Comstock, Union County CVB

Corrie Bott, Union County CVB

Amanda Morris, Honda Marysville, Hinkleys, CVB Board Member

Laura Michalak, City of Marysville, CVB Board Member

Crista Miller, Union County Historical Society, CVB Board Member

Joe Duke, Uptown Steakhouse, CVB Board Member

Kandi Krebehenne, Richwood Bank, CVB Board Member

Michelle Heuer, Hampton Inn, CVB Board Member

Sylvia Zimmerman, Fulton Creek Dairy, CVB Board Member

Megan Colwell, Der Dutchman, CVB Board Member

Sue Irwin, Allen Center Resident

Steve Stolte, Union County Commissioners

Cheryl Hollingsworth, North Lewisburg Council

Jane and Ron Payne, Milford Center Residents

Jeff Parren, Insurance Broke

Joyce Hinton

2

Advisor:

Tina Knotts, Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Director

Eric Phillips, Union County Chamber of Commerce CEO

Advisory Support:

Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Board

Union County Commissioners

Union County Chamber of Commerce

Union County Engineers Department

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION

A. Byway Description

B. Primary/secondary intrinsic qualities for which it was designated

C. Route map

D. Date of byway corridor designation by ODOT

Chapter 2 BYWAY VISION AND MISSION

A. Byway Vision and Mission

B. Accomplishments from previous CMP

C. 5 Year Action Plan/Goals

Chapter 3 BYWAY ORGANIZATION

A. Active Byway Organization

B. Current/Future Byway Committee Representatives

C. Primary and Secondary Byway Leader Contact Information

D. Level of Participation in State/Regional Meetings and Trainings

E. Byway Leadership Succession Plan

F. Current and Future Funding Needs

Chapter 4 CURRENT BYWAY CORRIDOR CONDITIONS

A. Road Conditions

B. Primary and second intrinsic quality/resources

C. Changes to intrinsic quality/resources

D. Accessibility to intrinsic quality/resources

Chapter 5 VISITOR EXPERIENCE

A. Interpretation

B. Preservation

C. Sign Inventory

Chapter 6 MARKETING AND PROMOTION

A. Current/Future Planned Marketing Activities

B. Additional attachments

Chapter 7 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

A. Ongoing Communication & Cooperation with Community Partners

B. Public Meetings and Public Participation Opportunities

4

C. Steps Taken to Update Byway Mission and Vision

D. Narrative on Critical Issues and How They Will Be Addressed

Chapter 8 MAPPING

Chapter 9 APPENDIX

A. Pictures

B. Maps

C. Other attachments

5

Chapter 1 Introduction

Statement of Significance

The mission of the Union County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is to promote Union

County as a tourist destination through marketing strategies and programs that balance economic

growth with the need to preserve the natural and cultural heritage in Union County. Over 87% of

the land in Union County is designated as agricultural. Based on this fact, the Convention and

Visitor’s Bureau and the Engineer’s office decided to form a citizens committee for the purpose

of creating scenic byway in accordance with the Union County Comprehensive Plan.

It is the mission of the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway committee to preserve the natural

resources and beauty of the scenic Big Darby Plains, to showcase the Big Darby Plains’ rich

agricultural background, to support in preservation of the region’s historical sites and landmarks,

and to promote cultural activities and events of the byway and its surrounding area.

Ecotourism is a relatively new trend in the tourism industry. Ecotourism is defined as

responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of

local people. This means those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should

minimize environmental impact and raise sensitivity to local people, cultures and issues that

provide positive experiences to both visitors and host community.

A Byway Committee was officially formed in 2004 and charged with three goals:

Goal 1: Establish a plan to identify needs and support efforts in preserving the natural

resources and beauty of the scenic Big Darby Plains.

Goal 2: Establish a plan to identify the needs and support the preservation of the region’s

historical sites and landmarks.

Goal 3: Establish a plan to identify recreational opportunities and support the promotion

of cultural activities and events of the byway and its surrounding area.

The Ohio Scenic Byway program was adopted by the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

and the Union County Engineer’s office as one avenue for achieving the three goals.

Byways beckon the traveling public to experience our nation’s rich beauty, historic past,

cultures, traditions, and diversity. People are drawn to prairies, farmland, and lakes. They come

to experience life in cities and towns that reflect the cultures of the people who built them and

the people who live and work there today. The Big Darby Plains Byway is one such byway.

A. Byway Description

6

Prior to European settlement in the early 1800s, Ohio, including Union, Champaign, and

Madison Counties, contained about a thousand square miles of prairies. These prairies, scattered

around the western half of the state, varied in size from a few acres to several thousand acres.

One of the largest concentration of prairies occurred in the Darby Plains. Small, but excellent

remnants of this prairie ecosystem can be seen today along the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway

which spans 40 miles.

The main route runs parallel to the state and nationally designated Scenic Big Darby

Creek for more than 27 miles. The various spurs of the byway feature access to nature preserves,

parks, century farms, cemeteries including Bigelow Cemetery State Nature Preserve, and homes

of interest as it passes through Milford Center, North Lewisburg, Unionville Center and Plain

City.

The byway also connects the historic covered bridges of Union County. Union County

has five historic bridges four of which were built in the late 1860s and 1870s. This is well above

the average for the state of Ohio. Four are still in use as part of the county highway system and

are currently being well-maintained by the Union County Engineer. All four historical covered

bridges in Union County were designed and built by Reuben L. Partridge (1823-1900) and are

based on a design he patented in 1872. When traveling along the Big Darby Plains Scenic

Byway, you will piece together Union County’s past and gain deeper knowledge of its historic

and agricultural importance. Just follow the byway signs!

B. Primary/Secondary Intrinsic Qualities

The Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway is primarily a scenic and natural designated byway.

Our most prominent scenic quality is the Big Darby Creek, a nationally designated scenic river.

Our natural intrinsic qualities include the Big Darby Plains, the covered bridges (also a historic

intrinsic quality), and the farmland. Some portions of the Big Darby Plains are gone. They have

been used for farmland or to build houses. However, there are still remnants, the most obvious

being the Bigelow Pioneer Cemetery. The Bigelow Pioneer Cemetery has never been mowed, so

the grasses and plants growing there are just like they were when the area was unsettled and

wild. It is said that the grass of the Big Darby Plains grew so high that a man on horseback could

grab grass on either side of him and tie a knot over his head.

Below are detailed descriptions of the intrinsic qualities on our byway:

This stretch of the byway includes: Stokes Road (CR 168), West Darby Road (CR 167),

North Lewisburg Road (CR 164), and Inskeep-Cratty Road ( CR 163)

Description

Three covered bridges, scenic views of fertile farm land, and views of the Big Darby

Creek and Darby Plains are the featured highlights of this leg of the byway. Approximately 1/3

7

mile west of West Darby Road on North Lewisburg Road is the new North Lewisburg Road

Covered Bridge spanning the Big Darby Creek. Running parallel to the south of the creek, the

Darby Plains was home to bands of Wyandot, Shawnee, and Delaware Indians and the first

European settlers in this region. The pioneers of the 1800’s found the Darby Plains beautiful, but

also challenging for agriculture. Settlers worked to control the wilderness. It was only after

drainage tiles were installed and the land was tilled that the rich, wet prairie was converted into

farmland.

The historic Pottersburg Covered Bridge which formerly spanned the Big Darby Creek,

now rests on a multi-purpose trail approximately 3/4 mile southwest of its original location.

Enjoy views of the Darby Plains watershed, farmland, and tree lined tributaries as you

travel Inskeep-Cratty Road. Just north of SR 245, you will see the Spain Creek Covered Bridge.

The 135’ North Lewisburg Road Covered Bridge was constructed in 2006 by the Righter

Company. The bridge is designed to carry two lanes of traffic and meets modern day design

standards. A beautiful vista of the Big Darby Creek can be enjoyed from the bridge of the pull

off area just west of the bridge.

The Pottersburg Covered Bridge, formerly in the location of the North Lewisburg Road

Covered Bridge, was designed and built by Reuben Partridge in 1868. The full length canopy

with windows was added in 1937. In 2006, the 94’ Partridge truss bridge was moved and

rehabilitated. This historic bridge now rests on a multi-use trail which begins in the village of

North Lewisburg and ends at the bridge on the Union/Champaign County line near Inskeep-

Cratty Road.

The Spain Creek Covered Bridge, also known as Inskeep-Cratty Road Bridge, is a pretty

little covered bridge spanning 64’ over Spain Creek. The bridge was designed and built by

Reuben Partridge in the 1870’s. Spain Creek currently achieves criteria associated with the

Exceptional Warmwater Habitat and Coldwater Habitat use designations by the Ohio

Environmental Protection Agency

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: Middleburg Road (TR 211), Rush Township

(Champaign County)

Description

The Big Darby Creek winds its way along this stretch of the byway creating continuous

views of the Darby Plains and some opportunities to experience the Big Darby Creek up close.

This region is known for its exceptional farmland, some of which has been farmed by the same

family for generations. Historic homes and barns dot the landscape.

8

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: Middleburg Plain City Road (CR 57), Allen

Township (Union County)

Description

The Big Darby Creek begins its state and national scenic designation as it enters Union

County in Allen Township just northwest of Buck Run Road. The Nature Conservancy has

declared the Little and Big Darby as on the of the “Last Great Places in the Western

Hemisphere”. The Big Darby Creek was by far the most important natural resource to the Indians

and early settlers. The creek itself is named after a Wyandot Indian Chief.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: Buck Run Road (TR 146), Allen Township (Union

County)

Description

Just east of Middleburg Plain City Road on Buck Run Road is the Buck Run Road

Covered Bridge, a new covered bridge built over the Big Darby Creek in 2006. Enjoy scenic

views of the Big Darby Creek from the bridge. Turn around at the intersection of North Darby

County Road (CR 75) to complete the spur and return to Middleburg Plain City Road by the

byway. This new two lane covered bridge was built to stand proudly for generations. Built by the

Righter Company in 2006, it has an impressive 160’ span.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: Middleburg Plain City Road (CR 57), Union

Township and the Village of Milford Center.

Description

Spectacular views of the Big Darby Creek, historic homes and churches, an ancient oak

tree, a replica of the county’s first courthouse and the quaint village of Milford Center can all be

enjoyed along this 7.18 mile section of the byway.

9

At the bridge near the intersection of Middleburg Plain City Road and Collins Road are

beautiful scenic views of the Big Darby Creek.

Approximately 1/8 mile north of the historic 1950’s traffic light (SR4/USR36) in Milford

Center is Liberty Park featuring a replica of Union County’s first Courthouse and a World War I

Veteran’s Monument. There is also access to the Big Darby Creek from the park.

The Milford Center United Methodist Church was founded in 1831. The church building

was originally dedicated in 1906. The church went through extensive interior and exterior

renovations in preparation for the church’s 100th anniversary.

Located in the Milford Center Cemetery stands the approximately 85’ tall Chinquapin

Oak Tree. This tree has been nominated as an Ohio Champion Tree.

The Milford Center Cemetery contains graves of veterans from every war beginning with

the Revolutionary War forward. The tall veterans’ monument was originally dedicated in 1873 to

Civil War Veterans. It now stands as a proud symbol of remembrance to veterans of all wars. A

pre-World War II structure in the Milford Center Cemetery was used as a temporary mausoleum

during the cold winters when the ground was frozen too solid for burial. This “cold storage”

solution was abandoned in the early 1930’s. This structure sits on the banks of the Big Darby

Creek in the Milford Center Cemetery.

Visitors to the Milford Center area can also see the Milford Center State Prairie Preserve.

This preserve is home to at least 57 species of prairie plants and wildflowers.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: SR 4/USR 36, Connor Road (CR 81), Homer Road

(CR 86), Winget Road (TR 82), SR 161, Rosedale Road (CR 25 – Madison County), Axe Handle

Road (CR 87), Sabine Bigelow Road ( CR 65), Streng Road (CR 67), SR 38.

Description

This 15.5 mile byway spur is definitely a worthwhile experience. Two covered bridges, a

historic steel truss bridge, two nature preserves, and a historic cemetery containing the grave of

the first white female born in Ohio are the featured highlights. The starting point for this spur is

the intersection at SR 4/US36 and State Street in Milford Center.

The Culbertson Covered Bridge is located just east of Homer Road on Winget Road. This

94’ bridge spans Treacle Creek and was built in 1868 by Reuben Partridge. The bridge was

originally on USR 36, two miles from Milford Center. This bridge, located on a dead-end road

features a small “run around” which can be used except during flooding periods.

The Bigelow House built in 1846 by Russell Bigelow, one of the first pioneers to settle

the tall grass prairie of the Darby Plains.

10

Located on the west side of Rosedale Road, just south of SR 161 in Madison County

(Pike Township), is a beautiful nature preserve. The Bigelow Pioneer Cemetery Nature Preserve

is a half acre pioneer cemetery and tall grass prairie remnant that was dedicated by the State of

Ohio in 1978 as an interpretive nature preserve. Bigelow Cemetery exhibits significant elements

of both cultural and natural history of west central Ohio. The first known burial was in 1814; the

last in 1892. The area is one of the few remnants of the once extensive Darby Plains.

Bigelow Cemetery has never been plowed or grazed. It appears to be perched above the

surrounding farm fields, a reflection of how much of the original prairie soil from these fields

has been lost to wind and water erosion over the centuries. The Bigelow Pioneer Cemetery

Nature Preserve contains a number of significant prairie plants including big blue stem, Indian

grass, purple coneflower, scurf pea, whorled rosin weed, and rough leaved goldenrod. The

cemetery supports one of the few remaining populations in Ohio of royal catchfly, one of the

state’s most spectacular wildflowers. The cemetery is open during daylight hours. Summer

blooming prairie wild flowers are at their peak from late July through August.

The Bigelow Covered Bridge over Little Darby Creek is also known as the Axe Handle

Road Bridge. The bridge was named in honor of Eliphas Bigelow, who was a nearby resident.

The bridge was built in 1873 by Reuben Partridge and spans 114’. The bridge has undergone

extensive renovation. Be sure to check out the bridge inside the bridge.

Just north of Middleburg Plain City Road on Streng Road is the historic Streng Road

Steel Truss Bridge, built in 1914. Union County received special recognition for the renovation

of this 200’ steel Pratt Bridge in 1993. The bridge is officially listed as an Ohio Historic Bridge.

An Ohio Historical Marker was installed and dedicated at this bridge in September of 2014.

The Mitchell Cemetery on SR 38 near Burns Road is the resting place of Mary Hawn, the

first female white child born in Ohio. Mary was born in 1791 and died in 1861. Adjacent to this

cemetery is St. Paul Cemetery.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: Middleburg Plain City Road (CR 57 – Darby

Township), and the village of Unionville Center.

Description

The Big Darby Creek meanders unspoiled along the stretch of the byway providing

beautiful vistas of the nationally designated Scenic River. Views of the tree lined Big Darby

Creek and watershed are in abundance as you make this trek. A mix of operating farms and

family homesteads covering a span of 150 years dot the landscape.

Other highlights of this section include the Village of Unionville Center, founded in

1847. Unionville Center’s most famous resident was Charles W. Fairbanks, the twenty-sixth

Vice President of the United States, serving under Theodore Roosevelt from 1904-1909. The

11

rural school district proudly bears the Fairbanks name. Darby Cemetery, one of the township’s

four cemeteries, is located just inside the village’s northwest boundary. The historic United

Methodist Church was founded in 1820. After meeting in homes, a school house, and a store, a

frame church was built in 1857. The present structure was built in 1895.

Inside the village is a bridge which spans Big Darby Creek at Cross Street/Unionville

Road, just north of Main Street. From a vantage point on the bridge, one has a clear

understanding why the creek got its Scenic River designation.

The Village Green located on Main Street has been a gathering place for years for

community events and is the site of the annual Fairbanks Family Festival.

Just southeast of the village of Unionville Center is the 200+ acre Darby Creek Sires-in-

Waiting facility which houses approximately 200 bulls. These new, unproved bulls are housed at

this facility until they are tested, proved, and transferred for service to other facilities. This

operation is owned by Select Sires Inc, an international company headquartered in Union County

north of USR 33 on SR 42.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: Unionville Road (CR 55), Boyd Road ( TR 42 –

Darby Township, Madison County), Converse-Chapel Road (TR 41 Darby Township, Madison

County), Kramer Road (CR 42), SR 161

Description

Smith Cemetery Nature Preserve was dedicated on December 6, 1982, as an interpretive

nature preserve. Smith Cemetery lies within what was once known as the vast Darby Plains

Prairie. The Darby Plains supported a tall grass prairie growing to a height of six to eight feet.

The sea of prairie grasses and colorful prairie wildflowers was interrupted only by scattered bur

oaks and a few hickories. The grasslands were among the last lands in this part of Ohio to be

settled. The Darby Plains were considered almost worthless by early settlers, for these plains

were covered with water several months out of the year and became extremely dry and subject to

raging prairie fires by late fall. Samuel Smith Jr, an early settler in this region, transferred his

ownership of the little prairie cemetery to the Darby Township Trustees in 1834. Today, Smith

Cemetery is perhaps the best example of a relict prairie community in the state, with the original

prairie grasses and wildflowers. Big bluestem is the most abundant of the prairie grasses. Some

other notable species include stiff goldenrod, purple coneflower, whorled rosinweed, smooth

aster, prairie false indigo, gray willow and wild petunia. The Smith Cemetery Prairie is open to

the public during daylight hours. The Practice Range of Plain City is located at 14200 SR 161. In

addition to a driving range, visitors can enjoy the beautifully landscaped pond area.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: SR 161, and the Village of Plain City.

12

Description

Plain City was founded in 1818 by Isaac Bigelow. The town of Plain City was originally

called Westminster when it was founded, but not long after, its name was changed to Pleasant

Valley. In the year 1871, there were at least four towns in Ohio named Pleasant Valley. In 1877,

the citizens petitioned to change the name to Plain City.

It might not look like it now, but years ago Plain City was home to many Amish families.

The first group of Amish settled in Plain City in 1896. By 1904, there were three large Amish

churches, made up of 20 to 30 families each. Here, they tended prosperous farms, raised their

families, and practiced a simple, separate way of life. But by the 1940s, modern inventions, such

as the automobile, began to tempt the younger generation. The incursion of worldly technology

spurred the beginning of an exodus from the area. Families began looking for a more isolated

place to live. Around 1944, a number of Amish families left the community, followed by another

group in 1966, and yet another in 1975. Some of those who left Plain City went west to

Wisconsin and Missouri. Others went to quieter, less worldly communities in Holmes County

Ohio where fewer distractions existed.

The Farmers National Bank Building on the corner of SR 161 and US 42 was built in

1902 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Barto & Keiser Hardware Building

constructed in 1902 is home to the town’s clock tower. This Seth Thomas clock is one of only

two remaining the United States. The Guy Building on W Main Street once housed a funeral

home and dentist. Beautiful historic churches are abundant in Plain City. The United Methodist

Church was built in 1902.

Pastime Park is located north of Main Street and can be accessed from Park Street, First

Street, or Chillicothe Street. Since 1988 the park has been home to the annual Antique Steam

Threshers Festival. The McKitrick Recreational Fishing Area rests alongside the Big Darby

Creek. This beautiful spot on the east side of Plain City along SR 161 is a perfect place to enjoy

the scenic river. A monument on the north side of SR 161 at Old SR 161 stands a reminder that

the road was once an Indian trail blazed by Chief Tecumseh and later used by the Pony Express.

><><><

This stretch of the byway includes: State Route 161 (Darby Township, Madison County),

Washington Township (Franklin County), and the City of Dublin.

Description

This stretch of the byway is the southeast connector to USR 33. Along the way you will

pass through Kileville, settled by James Kile family in the 1840’s. This small burg was platted in

the 1890’s. Nine generations of the family have lived and are still living here. Three counties –

Madison, Franklin, and Union – meet at the edge of the village. An abundance of recreational

13

opportunities including tennis, soccer, basketball, and bike trails can be found along this corridor

or within a two mile radius of the byway.

For a more concise list of the intrinsic qualities/resources, refer to the Intrinsic Qualities Grid in

Chapter 4, Section B.

14

C. Route Map

18

D. Date of Byway Designation by ODOT

2005

19

Chapter 2 Byway Vision and Mission

A. Byway Vision and Mission

It is the mission of the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway committee to preserve the natural

resources and beauty of the scenic Big Darby Plains, to showcase the Big Darby Plains’ rich

agricultural background, to support in preservation of the regions historical sites and landmarks,

and to promote cultural activities and events of the byway and its surrounding area.

B. Accomplishments from previous CMP

Continued to educate residents, local leaders, and government entities about the Big

Darby Plains Scenic Byway

Identified the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway with signage

Minimized visual clutter along the byway

Encouraged and supported exciting festivals and celebrations of cultural heritage

Encouraged display of local cultural artifacts

Supported the enhancement of the existing recreational areas of the corridor

Investigated and implemented biking and paddling opportunities along the corridor.

Installed lighting and pull off/parking areas at historic bridges

Developed a byway brochure and map

Installed monuments on or at historic bridges identifying the name/providing information

about each bridge

Posted byway information and links on Chamber, County, and Engineers websites

Hosted dedication ceremonies of the Byway and new bridges

Installed byway finding signs provided by ODOT

Promoted byway through various media and print publications

Enhanced landscaping around covered and historic bridges

Installed fireproofing and security measures at covered bridges

Installed guardrail at covered bridges

Established pull-offs along byway and at covered bridge

Encouraged the Rails to Trails program by adding bike paths and walking paths.

Identified needs and supported efforts in preserving the natural resources and beauty of

the Big Darby Plains.

Identified the needs and supported the preservation of the region’s historical sites and

landmarks

Identified recreational opportunities and support the promotion of cultural activities and

events of the byway and its surrounding area.

Hotmix resurfaced North Lewisburg Road

C. 5 Year Action Plan/Goals

20

On Going

- Develop a byway team to consist of local residents and representatives of government

and local business owners

- Develop and implement a fundraiser for the preservation of all covered bridges.

- Continue to market group travel through state and regional opportunities.

- Continue to strengthen the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway by securing funding to

enhance and protect the intrinsic qualities and seek community involvement.

- Continue to educate residents, local leaders, and government entities about the Big Darby

Plains Scenic Byway

- Continue to develop a strong working relationship with other byway support

organizations

- Encourage and support exciting festivals and celebrations of cultural heritage, and

develop new events; example being the now annual Covered Bridge Bluegrass Festival or

a Big Darby Plain Scenic Byway Festival.

- Support the enhancement of the existing recreational areas of the corridor.

- Work with public agencies to enhance publicly owned recreational properties

- Investigate and consider implementing biking and paddling opportunities along the

corridor (i.e. Trail and Greenway Master Plan)

- Continue to identify needs/support efforts in preserving the natural resources and beauty

of the scenic Big Darby Plains

- Continue to identify needs/support the preservation of the region’s historical sites and

landmarks

- Continue to identify recreational opportunities and support the promotion of cultural

activities and events of the byway and surrounding areas.

-

One to Four Years

- Install lighting and pull-off or parking areas at historic bridges

- Develop a Byway brochure/driving guide/map

- Research cost of installing an information kiosk at Liberty Park in Milford Center

- Research cost of installing an information kiosk at a location to be determined in Plain

City

- Research cost of installing an information kiosk at The Green in Unionville Center

- Promote and sell merchandise of the Historic Union County Bridges

- Promote Byway through various media and print publications.

- Assist as needed with Trail and Greenway Master Plan

- Create Union County specific logo to compliment existing ODOT provided Ohio Byway

Signs.

- Explore renamed byway to include covered bridges.

21

- Install signage and/or monument at Chinquapin Oak Tree in the Milford Center

Cemetery.

- Add signage to the Pottersburg Bridge to inform visitors that the bridge is available as an

event venue.

- Market the byway to cycling clubs in the Franklin County area.

- Develop a 5k on the byway.

- Host a square dance on the Pottersburg Bridge

Five to Nine Years

- Enhance landscaping around covered and historic bridges; make it easier to access the

Big Darby Creek for fishing and paddling

- Install naturalized guardrail at historic bridge approaches

- Investigate installing restrooms along the byway

- Work with the townships, villages, and others who maintain cemeteries along the byway

to develop signage, drive improvements, landscaping, identification of significant

historical grave sites, preservation/restoration of grave sites and other monuments.

- Install a pull off or parking area at Bigelow Cemetery

- Install a pull off or parking area at Smith Cemetery

- Install directional signage on US 33 to let travelers know that a byway is close by

- Investigate installing a Pottersburg Bridge Park and Parking Lot

- Install information kiosks at Liberty Park, The Green, and a location to be determined in

Plain City.

Ten Years and Beyond

- Continue to support Trail and Greenway Plan

- Install Pottersburg Bridge Park and Parking Lot

- Expand Walking Trail towards Marysville

Long Term

- Establish a system of pull-offs to enhance the travel experience

- Encourage expansion of public parks in the byway

- Strongly discourage developers from demolishing or relocating historic structures

- Investigate the public interest in designation of the Big Darby Creek as a Watertrail

through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Ohio Water Trails program.

22

Chapter 3 Byway Organization

A. Active Byway Organization

















Joyce Hinton

B. Current and Future Byway Committee Representatives







23











Joyce Hinton

C. Primary Byway Leader Contact Information

Tina Knotts

[email protected]

937-642-6279

Eric Phillips

[email protected]

937-642-6279

D. Level of Participation in State/Regional Meetings and Trainings

April 2013 – Ohio Byway Conference

April 2014 – Ohio Scenic Byway Conference

August 2015 – Byway Leaders Training

October 2015 – Union Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is hosting the Ohio Scenic Byway

Conference

E. Byway Leadership Succession Plan

New committee members were added during both public meetings held in June of 2015. It will

be the goal of the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway Committee to continue recruiting new people

mailto:[email protected]


24

to join the committee. Meetings will be held annually 2015-2019 to review the CMP plan and

discuss any new items. When the next CMP report is due in 2020, there will be two committee

meetings held in addition to the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Board Meetings.

F. Current and Future Funding Needs

Our current and future funding needs include, but are not limited to:

- Pottersburg Bridge Paint and Preservation

- Paint and Preservation for all covered bridges

- Pottersburg Bridge Park

- Pottersburg Bridge Parking Lot

- Extending the North Lewisburg Walking Trail west towards Marysville

- Trail and Greenway Master Plan

- Canoe launch sites/exit sites along the Big Darby

- Pull offs along the byway to enhance visitor experience and safety

25

Chapter 4 Current Byway Corridor Conditions

A. Road Conditions

All roads are in good condition and easily accessible by car. A majority of the byway is

located on busier roads, so visitors should exercise caution and good judgement when viewing an

intrinsic quality on the byway.

B. Primary and Second intrinsic Quality and Resources

- See grid on next page

C. Changes to Intrinsic Quality and Resources

There have been no changes to the intrinsic qualities/resources since the last CMP Update

Report in 2010.

D. Accessibility to Intrinsic Quality and Resources

All of the items along the byway, with the exception of historic homes and century farms,

are easily accessible. Most of the intrinsic quality locations have a pull-off, but those that do not

are located on quiet country roads, so parking on the side of the road and seeing the sites is not a

problem. Travelers along the byway can only drive by the historic homes and century farms.

These are private residences that have not been opened up to public viewing.

26

Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway Intrinsic Qualities Grid

Lo

cati

on,

Vil

lag

e,

To

wn

ship

/Co

un

ty

Description

Info

Sto

p

Inte

rpre

tiv

e S

top

Pu

ll O

ff

Par

kin

g L

ot

Lig

hti

ng

Lan

dsc

apin

g

Mo

num

ent

His

tori

cal

Mar

ker

Oth

er

Sce

nic

His

tori

c

Cult

ura

l

Rec

reat

ional

Arc

hae

logic

al

Nat

ura

l

Various Big Darby Creek x x x x

Various Big Darby Plains x x x x

Allen Twp Pottersburg Bridge x x x x x x x x x

Allen Twp Buck Run Covered Bridge x x x x x x x

Allen Twp

North Lewisburg Rd Covered

Bridge x x x x x x x

Allen Twp Spain Creek Bridge x x x x x x x

Allen Twp

North Lewisburg Multi

Purpose Trail x x x x x

Rush/Champaign

County

Miller Sisters Farm (remants) x x x x

Allen Twp

Spain Creek Protected

Stream x x x x x

Allen, Rush,

Union, Darby Historic Homes x x x

Milford Center Liberty Park x x x x x x x x

Milford Center World War I Monument x x x x x x x x x

Milford Center

Replica of First Union

County Court House x x x x x x x x

Milford Center

Milford Center United

Methodist Church x x x x x x x x x

Milford Center Milford Center Cemetery x x x x x x x x

Milford Center Chinquapin Oak Tree x x x x x x x x x

Union Culbertson Covered Bridge x x x x x x x x x x x

Pike/Madison

Bigelow Cemetery Nature

Preserve x x x x x x x

27

Union Bigelow Covered Bridge x x x x x x x x

Union Streng Road Bridge x x x x x x x

Darby/Union Mitchell Cemetery x x x x

Darby/Union St. Paul Cemetery x x

Unionville Ctr Darby Cemetery x x x x x x

Unionville Ctr United Methodist Church x x x x x x x x

Unionville Ctr Village Green Park x x x x x x x x

Darby/Madison

Smith Cemetery Nature

Preserve x x x x x x x

Plain City

Farmer's National Bank

Building x x x x x x

Plain City

Barto & Keiser Hardware

Building & Clock Tower x x x x x x x

Plain City Princess Theater x x x x x x

Plain City United Methodist Church x x x x x x x

Plain City Pastime Park x x x x x x x x

Plain City

McKitrick Recreational

Fishing Area x x x x x x

Plain City Post Road Monument x x x

28

CHAPTER 5 VISITOR EXPERIENCE

A. INTERPRETATION

Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway travelers have the opportunity to see many historic,

scenic, and natural sites. There are seven Ohio Historical Markers along the byway. These

markers are as follows:

Pottersburg Bridge

C.W. Fairbanks Birthplace (Village Green in Unionville Center)

Spain Creek Bridge

Bigelow Bridge

Culbertson Bridge

Iron Bridge (Steel Truss Bridge)

Union Township Civil War Monument (Milford Center Cemetery)

Visitors can read the information listed on all of these signs. The information tells about

the history of each location and some have pictures from the past. People are also able to see

eight other interpretive signs. These are not designed historical markers, but instead are signs that

have been put up by either ODNR or local communities. These signs are as follows:

Bigelow Cemetery

Smith Cemetery

Union County’s First Courthouse (replica)

Mitchell Cemetery Signs on rocks (there are two of these signs)

Darby Township Cemetery

Farmers National Bank

Plain City Town Clock

Post Rd/Indian Trail Monument on rock

Recreational Pursuits Along the Byway

1. Bird Watching – Glacier Ridge 1.3 miles from Rt. 33

2. Golf Courses

a. Darby Creek – 18 holes

29

b. Buck Ridge – 18 holes

c. Driving Range

3. Camping – Pastime Park

4. Fishing – McKitrick Recreational Area

5. Canoeing/Kayaking – various put ins along Big Darby Creek

6. Bicycling

7. Columbus Basketball Club

8. SportsOhio

9. Tower Tennis

10. Avalon Farms – Horseback Riding

11. The Maize at Little Darby Creek on Axe Handle Road – open September through October

Parks Located Along the Byway

1. Liberty – Milford Center

2. The Green – Unionville Center

3. Pastime Park – Plain City

Century Farms

There are ten farms in Union County which have been registered with Ohio Department of

Agriculture as Century Farms. Four of these farms are along or near the Big Darby Plains Scenic

Byway.

30

B. PRESERVATION

The Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway Committee and surrounding townships/counties have

instituted the following protections for sustaining and preserving intrinsic qualities on the byway:

- Graffiti-proof paint on all covered bridges

- Fireproofing and heat sensing alarms

- Cameras in Pottersburg Bridge

- ODNR regularly checks the water of the Big Darby Creek for water levels, chemicals,

and status of wildlife in the water.

C. SIGN INVENTORY

I. Official ODOT Byway Signs

Included on CD

II. Local Byway Signs

Included on CD

III. Interpretive Signs

Pottersburg Bridge Historical Marker (HM)

C.W. Fairbanks Birthplace HM

Spain Creek Bridge HM

Bigelow Bridge HM

Culbertson Bridge HM

Iron Bridge (Steel Truss Bridge) HM

Union Township Civil War Monument HM

Bigelow Cemetery ODNR Sign

Smith Cemetery

Union County’s First Courthouse (Replica)

Mitchell Cemetery Signs on boulders (there are two of these signs)

Darby Township Cemetery

Farmer’s National Bank in Plain City

Plain City Town Clock

Old Post Road/ Indian Trail Monument on boulder

IV. Future Signage Needs

Directional Signage Needed at the top and bottom of the byway along US 33

Signage needed on the Pottersburg Bridge to let people know the bridge is

available for rental as an event venue

31

CHAPTER 6 – MARKETING AND PROMOTION

A. Describe any current and future planned marketing activities.

- Planning

o The Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway Committee, a subcommittee of the

Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Board, met on the following dates:

June 10th, 2015

May 13th, 2015

April 8th, 2015

March 11th, 2015

February 11th, 2015

January 14th, 2015

December 10th, 2014

November, 12th, 2014

October 8th, 2014

September 10th, 2014

August 13th, 2014

July 9th, 2014

June 11th, 2014

May 14th, 2014

April 9th, 2014

March 12th, 2014

February 12th, 2014

January 8th, 2014

Marketing and Public Relations

A number of marketing related steps are necessary to advance the Big Darby Plains Scenic

Byway. It is important to note that the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway was created with the

intent to preserve and enhance the intrinsic qualities of the byway, and to provide enjoyment and

safe use of the byway for the community. A critical step is to inform the corridor residents and

property owners of this effort, and how the management applies to them. This is also true for the

counties, townships, and villages that are affected by this plan. Thus, the information contained

within this document will effectively disseminated and made available.

Marketing Plans include but are not limited to:

1. Hold public meetings to inform residents and community leaders about the byway and

the corridor management plan.

32

2. Send press releases to local papers on a regular basis with updates on Byway.

3. Contact the Columbus Dispatch about an article on the Byway in the Travel Section for

Fall.

4. Contact Country Living Magazine about an article.

5. Contact Home and Away Magazine about an article.

6. Develop ad campaign for appropriate publications throughout Ohio.

7. Develop and print a simple, easy-to-read brochure map describing a self-guided tour of

the byway with a clear map and quick information of key features and highlights. These

brochures will be available free of charge through the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

website and at the visitor centers in Marysville and Plain City. Grants may be available to

offset cost of production.

8. Distribute Byway brochure to ODOT visitor centers.

9. Create a scavenger hunt and/or trivia brochure for the byway so travelers can have an

interactive experience. Post on website in PDF printable form.

10. Create a separate web page on the Union County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

website. This page will contain a PDF of a printable map/brochure which will include

points of interest and seasonal photos of the byway.

11. Create video streaming on website which will allow travelers to see short videos about

the byway.

12. Create a section on the website for visitors to share their experiences.

13. Create interactive GPS guided auto tours.

14. Prepare a second informational brochure for distribution solely to residents. This

brochure will highlight the major management strategies, particularly as they pertain to

private property. It will detail the value of the byway to the community and the

importance of retaining and restoring native vegetation. Grants may be available to offset

cost of production.

15. Create a distinctive and identifying sign package for the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway.

This will include road markers, way finding signs, and points of interest signs. Colors,

graphics, fonts, materials, and structural sign design should be considered. In addition, a

unique and distinguishing logo for the byway should be created.

16. Promote awareness of the historical and natural importance of byway by providing

interpretive displays at overlooks. Grants may be available to offset costs.

17. Post the management plan on the Union County Engineer’s website to allow public

access and sharing.

18. The Union County Visitors Guide will refer to the byway and how to secure a map.

19. Apply for byway awards to receive special recognition and garner publicity. One award is

the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) Award.

Events Along the Byway

May

33

Heritage Day, Plain City

June

Plain City Farmers Market

Music in the Park, Plain City

July

Miami Valley Steam Threshers Festival and Show, Plain City

Music in the Park, Plain City

4th of July Festivities, Plain City

August

Classic Car Cruise-in, Plain City

September

Covered Bridge Bluegrass Festival, Pottersburg Bridge

Shekinah Festival, Plain City

Car and Bike Show, Milford Center

November

Holiday Parade, Milford Center

December

Christmas Under the Clock, Plain City

B. Other products/attachments:

- Short Description of Byway (58 words)

o The Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway stretches for over 27 miles. True to its name,

the byway runs along the beautiful Big Darby Creek. Travelers on the byway will

34

see the creek and have the opportunity to visit several charming small towns. It’s

an experience everyone should have, whether native to the area or just passing

through.

- Long Description of Byway (353 words)

The beautiful Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway truly lives up to its name.

Considered one of the most scenic views in the area, the byway gives travelers not only

the chance to see the Big Darby Creek and farmland, but also historic architecture.

Six covered bridges sit on or very near to the byway. These bridges are what

people remember the most about trips along the byway. One bridge in particular, the

Pottersburg Bridge, is a very popular tourist stop. Visitors can eat a picnic lunch on the

bridge, walk along the trail, or even schedule a wedding on the bridge. Pottersburg

Bridge also plays host to the annual Covered Bridge Bluegrass Festival, the most

memorable county-wide event. During the festival, byway tours and covered bridge tours

are offered. Many festival attendees take advantage of these and see some of the hidden

wonders of Union County.

Big Darby Creek runs along the byway, thus giving the byway its name. Travelers

can catch some beautiful views of the creek along the byway. One of the best views can

be seen from the bridge on Collins Road by Middleburg-Plain City Road. Tree limbs

hang over the creek, framing the perfect picture that looks like something straight off a

postcard.

Beautiful farmland stretches as far as the eye can see. Many century farms and

historic homes dot the landscape, especially along Middleburg-Plain City Road. Some of

these homes were even part of the Underground Railroad Movement during the Civil

War.

Other prominent features along the byway include some beautiful churches and

cemeteries. Plain City, one of the several small towns along the byway, is home to many

of the churches. Milford Center Cemetery boasts the 85’ tall Chinquapin Oak Tree, a

state nominated heritage tree. Visitors to the Milford Center Cemetery can also see a

mausoleum that was used to house soldiers bodies during World War I when the ground

was too frozen to dig graves.

The Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway is a wonderful place to get some pictures, eat

a picnic lunch, or just learn about the history of Union County and surrounding areas.

- Top Unique Attractions Along the Byway

o Pottersburg Covered Bridge

The Pottersburg Covered Bridge, formerly in the location of the North

Lewisburg Road Covered Bridge, was designed and built by Reuben

Partridge in 1868. The full length canopy with windows was added in

1937. In 2006, the 94’ Partridge truss bridge was moved and rehabilitated.

This historic bridge now rests on a multi-use trail which begins in the

35

village of North Lewisburg and ends at the bridge on the

Union/Champaign County line near Inskeep-Cratty Road.

o Big Darby Creek

The Big Darby Creek begins its state and national scenic designation as it

enters Union County in Allen Township just northwest of Buck Run Road.

The Nature Conservancy has declared the Little Darby and Big Darby as

on the of the Last Great Places in the Western Hemisphere. The Big Darby

Creek was by far the most important natural resource to the Indians and

early settlers. The creek itself is named after a Wyandot Indian Chief

named Darby.

o Milford Center Cemetery

The Milford Center Cemetery contains graves of veterans from every war

beginning with the Revolutionary War forward. The tall veterans

monument was originally dedicated in 1873 to Civil War Veterans. It now

stands as a proud symbol of remembrance to veterans of all wars.

o Bigelow Pioneer Cemetery

Bigelow Cemetery exhibits significant elements of both cultural and

natural history of west central Ohio. The first known burial was in 1814,

and the last in 1892. The area is one of the few remnants of the once

extensive Darby Plains. Bigelow Cemetery has never been plowed or

grazed. It appears to be perched above the surrounding farm fields, a

reflection of how much of the original prairie soil from these fields has

been lost to wind and water erosion over the centuries. The Bigelow

Pioneer Cemetery Nature Preserve contains a number of significant prairie

plants including big blue stem, Indian grass, purple coneflower, scurf pea,

whorled rosin weed, and rough leaved goldenrod. The cemetery supports

one of the few remaining populations in Ohio of royal catchfly, one of the

state’s most spectacular wildflowers.

o Bigelow Bridge

The Bigelow Covered Bridge over Little Darby Creek is also known as the

Axe Handle Road Bridge. The bridge was named in honor of Eliphas

Bigelow, who was a nearby resident. The bridge was built in 1873 by

Reuben Partridge and spans 114’. The bridge has undergone extensive

renovation. Be sure to check out the bridge inside the bridge.

o Streng Road Truss Bridge

Just north of Middleburg Plain City Road on Streng Road is the historic

Streng Road Steel Truss Bridge, built in 1914. Union County received

special recognition for the renovation of this 200’ steel Pratt Bridge in

1993. The bridge is officially listed as an Ohio Historic Bridge. An Ohio

Historical Marker was installed and dedicated at this bridge in September

of 2014.

o Mitchell Cemetery

36

The Mitchell Cemetery on SR 38 near Burns Road is the resting place of

Mary Hawn, the first female white child born in Ohio. Mary was born in

1791 and died in 1861. Adjacent to this cemetery is St. Paul Cemetery.

- Website URL

o www.unioncounty.org

o www.coveredbridgefestival.com

o www.historyohio.com

- Marketing Contact Information

o Tina Knotts, [email protected], 937-642-6279

o Eric Phillips, [email protected], 937-642-6279

o Katie Comstock, [email protected], 937-642-6279

http://www.unioncounty.org/

http://www.coveredbridgefestival.com/

www.historyohio.com




37

CHAPTER 7 – PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

A. Ongoing Communication and Cooperation with Community Partners

- Annual Covered Bridge Bluegrass Festival is held on the Pottersburg Bridge (part of the

byway) every year. Businesses and musicians throughout the community come out to this

event to sell their wares and perform.

- Various meetings are held on the bridge.

- Tours are arranged for business groups and tour groups.

- Weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, and graduation parties all take place on the

bridge

B. Public Meetings and Public Participation Opportunities

- June 23rd, 2015 at 8:00 AM.

- June 25th, 2015 at 7:00 PM.

- Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Board Meetings ever 2nd Wednesday of the month

- Annual Agricultural Byway Tours arranged by the Union County Chamber of Commerce

and the Union County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

- Bicycle Tour of Bridges

C. Steps Taken To Update Byway Mission and Vision

- The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau assistant reworded the Byway Mission and Vision.

The Mission and Vision was approved at both of the public meetings in June 2015.

D. Narrative On How Critical Issues Will Be Addressed

- For critical issues, such as damage to a landmark on the byway, the possibility of adding

a new leg or spur to the byway, or other such matters, a committee meeting will be called

with 7-10 days notice. After the committee has discussed their action plan and steps for

handling the situation, the plan will be presented at a public meeting to members of the

community. The members of the community can share their opinions, thoughts, and

concerns and offer their support for implementing the plan.

38

CHAPTER 8 – MAPPING

The Corridor Map, Primary Intrinsic Qualities Map, and the Land Use Maps are included on the

CD in the ‘Maps’ Folder.

39

CHAPTER 9 – APPENDIX

Pictures:

- Big Darby Creek State and National Scenic River Sign

- Bigelow Pioneer Cemetery (3 pictures)

- Buck Run Covered Bridge

- Chinquapin Oak Tree in the Milford Center Cemetery

- Civil War, Veteran’s Monument, and Ohio Historical Marker at Milford Center Cemetery

- Clock Tower Sign in Plain City

- Culbertson Covered Bridge

- Darby Township Cemetery and Veteran’s Monument

- Dr. Hathaway Historic Brick Home

- Farmers National Bank Building

- Farmland of the Big Darby Plains

- Gravestone of Samuel Smith at Smith Pioneer Cemetery

- Mausoleum at the Milford Center Cemetery

- McKitrick Recreational Fishing Area

- McKitrick Recreational Fishing Area Sign

- Milford Center United Methodist Church

- Miller Sisters’ Farm in its former glory

- Mitchell Cemetery Sign on Boulder

- Monument Honoring Plain City’s Founder and His Family

- Monument Honoring Mary Hawn, the first white female child born in Ohio

- North Lewisburg Road Covered Bridge

- Ohio Byway Sign

- Old Post Road and Old Indian Trail Monument

- Plain City United Methodist Church built in 1902

- Pottersburg Bridge on North Lewisburg Multi-Use Trail

- Remnants of the Milford Center Prairie Preserve and Walking Trail

- Resting Place of Mary Hawn

- Scenic Big Darby Creek

- Select Sires Livestock Breeding Company

- Smith Prairie Cemetery Gravestones

- Smith Prairie Cemetery

- Streng Road Steel Truss Bridge

- The Barto and Keiser Hardware Building, home of the Clock Tower in Plain City

- The Bigelow House

- The Bigelow House Sign

- The Green in Unionville Center, home of Theodore Roosevelt’s vice president, Charles

W. Fairbanks

40

- The Historic Horn House in Plain City

- The Howard Family Historic Home and Farm on Middleburg-Plain City Rd

- ¾ Scale Replica of the First Union County Courthouse

- Today’s Remnants of the Miller Sisters’ Farm

- Unionville Center United Methodist Church

- View of the Big Darby Creek from Buck Run Covered Bridge

Maps:

- Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway Map (color)

- Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway Map (from Google)

- Maps of each section of the byway which show the location of the intrinsic qualities

- Township Maps

Other:

- Pictorial Tour of the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway (PDF)

- Sign Inventory by the Union County Engineers Department

- Trail and Greenway Master Plan

big darby plains byway corridor management plan · the big darby creek winds its way along this...

Documents