Building on the 19th-century tradition established on the shores of New York’s Chautauqua Lake, Ohio Chautauqua is a five-day community event that combines living history performances, music, education, and audience participation into a one-of-a-kind cultural event the entire community will enjoy.

Daytime activities feature stimulating adult programs and hands-on workshops for youth hosted by local community organizations. Each evening, family and friends gather as live music fills the air. Then, a talented performer appears on stage, bringing a historic figure to life through personal stories and historic detail. This enriching and delightfully entertaining experience is perfect for every generation.  With its warm, nostalgic vibe, this truly unique experience is sure to open minds and start conversations.

Chautauqua History

After their debut in 1874 as a summer class for Sunday school teachers, Chautauqua assemblies quickly expanded and spread throughout rural America until the mid-1920s. Chautauqua assemblies brought entertainment and culture for the whole community, with speakers, teachers, musicians, entertainers, preachers and specialists of the day.  US President Theodore Roosevelt was quoted as saying that Chautauqua is “the most American thing in America.”

By 1915, at the height of the Chautauqua Movement, nearly 12,000 communities had hosted a Chautauqua. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the movement died out. Most historians cite the rise of car culture, radio, and movies as the causes.

Ohio Chautauqua: Bringing Communities Together since 1999

A handful of independent Chautauquas survived and are thriving again while others are being resurrected. Leading the way, several state humanities councils have organized Chautauquas over the last two decades. Ohio Humanities established Ohio Chautauqua in 1999 as part of its mission to to help individuals and communities explore, share, and be inspired by the human experience. The tour now travels to four towns in Ohio each summer.

Once known as the “Dry Capitol of the World,” Westerville was chosen as the site for the printing headquarters of the Anti-Saloon League in 1909. Forty tons of anti-alcohol information was produced and shipped each month from the town in the effort to eliminate liquor manufacturers and the saloons that sold their products. The successful campaign ushered in passage of the 18th amendment to the U.S. constitution.

The old headquarters building of the Anti-Saloon League is now part of the Westerville Public Library and houses the Local History Center and Anti-Saloon League Museum. A visit will provide information on the League and the effect of Prohibition on the country. This dynamic community has a small town feel which is represented by its charming Uptown. Recently designated as a National Register Historic District, the main streets lined with 19th century brick buildings, are home to unique shops and restaurants. Plaques sharing the history of the area make walking the streets an adventure.