MOUNT VERNON — On Jan. 30, 1808, the young Ohio Legislature passed legislation establishing and organizing Knox County. This split of Fairfield County created Licking, Knox and, later, Richland counties. The legislation stipulated the effective date of Knox County’s organization to be March 1, 1808.
In remembrance of this momentous day, the Knox County Bicentennial birthday celebration will be held on the anniversary date — March 1, 2008. The event will be at The Dan Emmett Conference Center, 160 Howard St., Mount Vernon.
During the 6 p.m. social hour, authentic re-enactors representing early Knox County historic figures will mingle with the crowd, explaining who they were and what they did to help the community and state develop. Local chapter members from the Daughters of the American Revolution will be the hostesses. Dinner will be at 7 p.m. featuring a choice of Alcove prime rib or gouda chicken. A cash bar will be available.
The dinner and program cost will be per person or per couple; table sponsorships will also be available per table (which includes eight tickets for the evening). The recommended dress is semi-formal/business attire; period dress is also encouraged.
Following dinner, attendees will meet Knox County’s namesake, Henry Knox (Steve Kelly) with his wife Lucy Knox (Gwen Wallot). The Knox County 200th anniversary birthday cake will then be cut and served.
The keynote address will be presented by noted area historian and author Dr. Lorle Porter. Her program is titled “Into the Dark Forest — the FIRST Generation of Knox County.”
In addition, there will be a period dress contest, a quilt and flag display, and several bicentennial recognitions. The evening’s festivities will close with dancing and music.
Tickets for the event are available at the Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 107 S. Main St. Cash, check, MC/Visa will be accepted. Advance reservation and payment are required. Call 392-6102 for assistance or for more information.