(PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
EXHIBIT … There is much to see at the Fulton County Museum’s newest exhibit, “Born in Turmoil”. This new exhibit covers the Civil War and the fight to decide where the county seat would be located.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
A powerful new exhibit titled “Born in Turmoil” is now open at the Museum of Fulton County, offering visitors a compelling look at the county’s beginning years, an era marked by division, resilience, and determination.
Launched in celebration of Fulton County’s 175th anniversary, the exhibit explores the foundational period following the county’s creation.
Visitors will discover how the region weathered two early challenges, the fierce battle over the location of the county seat, and the profound impact of the Civil War on its people and communities.
Located in the museum’s Worthington Gallery, “Born in Turmoil” brings this pivotal era to life by introducing guests to the stories of real Fulton County residents, both those who remained on the farm and those who fought on the front lines. The museum’s vast collection helps paint a vivid picture of life during this defining chapter in local history.
“Through patriotism, conflict, sacrifice, victory, loss, and generosity, the future of 4,000 residents, and even today’s residents, was changed forever,” said John Swearingen, Jr., director of the Museum of Fulton County. “Guests are sure to be inspired by this new exhibit at the museum!”
A special highlight of the exhibit is the opportunity to hear actual transcripts of Civil War-era letters. As part of the museum’s audio cell phone tour, visitors are guided through time by the firsthand accounts of the Borton family, local sons who wrote from the battlefield to loved ones at home.
“As guests listen to the audio tour, they will hear two actual transcripts of the Borton letters,” Swearingen explained.
“These letters were mailed to family members during the war in the same week, but neither reached their destination. Join us to find out why.”
The exhibit also features newly donated artwork of Ohio’s first governor. While not directly tied to Fulton County, these portraits represent the state leadership in place at the time of the county’s formation, a symbolic addition to this milestone year exhibit.
Developed by the Fulton County Historical Society, an organization founded in 1883, the exhibit was installed shortly after completion of work on the museum’s historic depot.
In just a short time, and with a whole lot of hard work, the team transformed the space into a thought-provoking tribute to the county’s origins.
“Born in Turmoil” will remain on display through the end of 2026, extending through the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Admission to the exhibit is included with a general admission ticket to the museum.
The Museum of Fulton County is located at 8848 State Route 108 just outside Wauseon. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m.