Urbana, Ohio

As you probably know if you've spent much time here on my blog, I am rarely without my camera AND I consider all jaunts a form of travel, an opportunity to see, experience, and learn. So the other day making my way with my Dad to visit his 90 year old sister was no exception.

I've been taking photo's and scanning photo's to load into a digital frame for her. She's recouping from a stroke. I thought having something to look at, to help with the stories from way back...and things just to keep her company would be helpful. The above statue is one of the first things you see as you enter Urbana. This is round about with a flag proudly flying and this war memorial statue honoring those who've served.

Urbana is the county seat of Champaigne County, was layed out in 1805 (just 2 years after statehood for the state of Ohio), and for a short period in 1812 was the headquarters for The Northwestern Army.

This historical plaque is within walking distance of my elderly aunt's log cabin. Yes...I really did say log cabin. Her husband, my Uncle built it long ago. The plaque talks about the importance of the railroads in the development of this community and how Joseph Vance and John H. James were important and instrumental in it's development.
This is Joseph Vance, the 13th Governor of The State of Ohio. He was an uneducated man, an Abolitionist and rose in the ranks due to hard work and service during The War of 1812.
This is John H. James, an attorney and high official in the railroad business.

Simon Kenton famous Indian fighter is buried here in Urbana. He made his home here for awhile. Simon Kenton was a Brigadier General in the Ohio Militia and served during The War of 1812.

However, what Urbana is most known for is being the birthplace of Me, The Traveling Suitcase! You'll no doubt find that piece of historic data in all the history books. lol

It's a pretty little town with some fabulous old homes with grand porches. I've been traveling there with Dad at least once a week over the last couple of months; wish I had more time to explore; ...but that's not the purpose of our visit.

Traveling Suitcase Contest...the winner is

Thanks to all who participated in my first ever contest. Though a bit disappointed in the level of participation am pleased to have met some new bloggers. All participants are now listed on my blog log for some linky love as a means of saying thank you for participating. Links will remain up for all who maintain active participation in the blog (visiting and leaving comments).

Using random.org I can tell you the winning number drawn was.....#18. Number 18 belonged to Lainy!! Hop over to her blog and pass along your congrats. While there please check out a wonderful humanitarian effort to build a home for a family in need. Perhaps you can help.

Again thanks to all who participated, and Congrats to you Lainy on winning. Please email me at sandycrochet@gmail.com.

(inside and outside of travel/ditty bag with some travel essentials, small containers for personal care items. Bag has 3 zippered containers and hook for hanging. These really help with minimizing the weight of items to take, helps keep you organized, and just simply makes packing easier.)