Ohio Historical Marker Fund

The Ohio Historical Society has approved an historical marker for 122 E. Main St. Eaton, Ohio! In order for this marker to be placed in front, $2500 must be raised. We are asking for the community's support in donating to this cause. This building was originally built as a home and was a built in 1835 by Cornelius VanAusdal as a wedding present for his daughter Lucinda Donohoe. This building has a rich history and is arguably the most historic building in Eaton/Preble County. It is well documented that President William Henry Harrison made an overnight stay in the building when he campaigned for president in 1840. Other guests include a famous silent movie star actress. The home was later converted to a famous Eaton eatery; Mrs. Wagner's Colonial Kitchen, where it earned national recognition in earning the Duncan Hines Seal of Approval. One of the owners invented the Henny Penny Chicken Fryer, which later became the Henny Penny Corporation which now manufacters the majority of chicken fryers used in most restaurants around the world today. The building was later used a Farenholtz Insurance, and lastly as Pat Taylor Photography. The property is currently owned by Richard Gade who has found dozens of historic artifacts. Plans are being made to display these artifacts as a musuem in the building, as well as recreating Cornelious VanAusdal's trading post. This historic marker project is a joint program between the Gade family, the students of Mr. McKinney's History of Preble County Class at Eaton High School, and the Ohio Historical Society. We know that many people have fond memories of Eaton and of this historic building. We would greatly appreciate your support! If you cannot donate online, but wish to contribute please call [phone redacted]. Thank you!