STATEHOUSE CALENDAR

Rev. Edward Dominic Fenwick was the first priest to settle in the state of Ohio, and he became its first bishop. Fenwick brought with him a community of men, members of a now 800-year-old religious community founded in Europe in 1216 known as the Dominicans. Fenwick and his community provided essential, early services to the citizens of Ohio to support the growing state. The first church was a log cabin at Somerset, Ohio, and the Dominicans settled in Cincinnati, Columbus, Youngstown, Somerset and Zanesville and have served the citizens of the state of Ohio in parishes, schools and social services in these locations since the early 19th century.

The exhibit focuses on history and community service for the benefit of all citizens and highlights religious freedom and the ingenuity of Ohio’s first citizens at the founding of the Buckeye State. The exhibit items include historic and contemporary photographs, original letters and books.