Lincoln Highway kiosk dedication set

Lincoln Highway Association news

The Lincoln Highway Association will be dedicating a new Lincoln Highway historical kiosk in Van Wert’s Fountain Park at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 26.

This year marks the 100 birthday of this historic roadway — the first coast-to-coast highway across the United States. This highway is not only important in the transportation history of the nation, but, more significantly to Van Wert County residents, the economic growth and development of the county in the mid-20th century.

Communities along the Lincoln Highway, from New York City to San Francisco, will be observing this milestone with various celebrations throughout the summer. Van Wert will be hosting the national Lincoln Highway Tour following the dedication of the kiosk, beginning at 11 a.m. June 26 in Fountain Park. The Van Wert Historical Society is preparing a picnic lunch for drivers and their passengers and local organizers invite people to remain in the park to greet the drivers, view their automobiles and enjoy the old-fashioned picnic. Donations are being sought to help cover the cost of the picnic.

The kiosk was made possible by donations from The Van Wert County Foundation and Eaton Corporation. Signs in Time, owned by Greg Boley, created the kiosk with assistance from Ty Coil, graphic designer and owner of Real Cre8tive.

Members of the local Lincoln Highway Centennial Committee include Gary Showalter, Jeff and Cathy Thomas, Jeanne Zeigler, John Marshall, Kirk Dougal, Larry Webb, Linda Stutz, Sarah Smith, Todd Wolfrum and Warren Kramer.