By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Kelli Kling wasn’t a born history buff – but she has definitely grown into one.
Love of history was an acquired taste for Kling, who is the new director of the Wood County Historical Center.
“I did not appreciate it when I was younger,” she said of history.
But her 15 years as the assistant to the director and as marketing and events coordinator at the museum have turned her into a history geek.
“I have learned so much working here,” Kling said. “Every day I learn something new.”
It may have been the museum – which was formerly the county’s poorhouse – that lured her love of history.
“There is really something magical being so connected to the community and understanding the history, and how it is connected to today.”
As director, Kling is able to look back to the days of historian Lyle Fletcher, who made it his mission to preserve the old county infirmary for future generations.
“I feel like from the very beginning people in the county saw the value of this place,” she said.
Next year, the Wood County Historical Center will revisit the original purpose of the site – long before it was turned into a museum. The center will focus on all the county poorhouses in Ohio, with a photo gallery shot by photographer Jeff Hall showing the current status of all the sites.
Wood County’s preserved poorhouse is quite a rarity, Kling said.
“Some of them are empty fields or modern buildings,” she said of other counties’ former sites.
“I’m very excited about the poorfarm exhibit because it delves into the history of this place,” she said.
Then in 2020, the historical center will help celebrate Wood County’s bicentennial.
“We do have a lofty plan in place for our exhibits and programs,” Kling said.
The historical center is well respected for its exhibits, including the current World War I focus.
“I do believe the museum is already a leader in the history field,” she said. “We want to continue on that path so that we are seen as a leader, not only in the county, but the region and the state.”
The historical center also recently made strides to become more accessible to people with disabilities. The addition of an elevator has allowed senior citizens and others to once again enjoy the museum.
“We have many people who haven’t visited for a long time, who have been able to come back,” Kling said. “They feel welcome.”
But as with any historical site, the maintenance is demanding. The top need right now is fixing water damage in the “Lunatic Asylum” on the grounds.
“We can’t afford to lose it,” Kling said. “All of the buildings are important.”
One of the strengths of the museum is its variety of events, she said. There are demonstration days, when families can learn about blacksmithing, caning, farming and other skills.
There are monthly “teas,” that are frequently sold out. “I’m proud that we can continue offering those events,” she said.
The larger events include the Folklore and Fun Fest, the Holiday Gala, and the Living History Day that tells the stories of everyday people from Wood County’s past.
“It’s all the people who had an impact on Wood County in some way,” she said.
