Walk Into History: Medina County Arts Council, Medina County Historical Society & Medina Show Biz Bring the Past to Life

Medina, OH – August 13, 2025 – Step back in time and experience Medina’s rich history like never before on Spirits of the Past — an immersive, 60-minute guided walking tour presented by the Medina County Arts Council, the Medina County Historical Society, and Medina Show Biz Company.

In its 29th year, this captivating experience continues to educate and entertain guests through engaging storytelling, theatrical performances, and guided walks that showcase Medina’s history, architecture, heritage, and culture. Tour guides lead visitors to various points of interest, sharing fascinating stories and historical insights at each stop.

A highlight of the tour is the living history experience, where talented actors portray Medina’s pioneers, bringing to life the individuals whose groundbreaking achievements and lasting legacies helped shape the vibrant community we know today.

This year’s stories include Zenus Hamilton, Medina’s First Settler; the Great Courthouse Robbery; Franklin Sylvester, founder of Medina’s library; Cora Munson Blakeslee, one of the first independent businesswomen in Medina; the Interurban Railway; and Millie Gray, an accomplished bicyclist.

The journey begins at the Medina County Administration Building, where participants will set off on a route that reveals Medina’s past through immersive scenes and interactive storytelling. Whether you’re a dedicated history enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable activity with friends or family, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the people and events that made Medina what it is today.

Event Details:

Date: September 4th, 5th, and 6th
Time: Tours begin at 7pm and depart every 10 minutes (last tour at 9pm)
Starting Location: Medina County Administration Building, 144 N Broadway St., Medina, OH
Tickets: Adults (12+) $7, Students $4 (under 3 are free)
Each time slot is limited to 20 tickets.
10 tickets will be available during the presale, and 10 reserved for day-of sales.

Advance Tickets (Presale) can be purchased in person on Sunday, Aug. 17th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the McDowell-Phillips House Museum located at 205 S Prospect St, Medina.

Ticket sales will also be at the John Smart House Museum (206 N. Elmwood, Medina) on the following days:
Saturday, Aug. 30th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Sunday, Aug. 31st from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Tuesday, Sept. 2nd from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Wednesday, Sept. 3rd from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Thursday, Sept.4th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Returning this year are Online Advance Tickets (Presale), available from August 20th through August 29th at 5:00 PM at www.MedinaCountyArtsCouncil.org/spirits-of-the-past.

Day-of tickets will be available September 4th – 6th starting at 6:00 PM in the rear parking lot of the Medina County Administration Building, where the walking tour begins.

Proceeds from this unforgettable evening support three pillars of our community — Medina County Show Biz Company, the Medina County Historical Society, and the Medina County Arts Council — helping keep local history, theater, and the arts thriving.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to walk the streets of Medina while uncovering the remarkable stories of the individuals who left their mark on our community.

About Medina County Arts Council The Medina County Arts Council is a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to advocating for, supporting, and nurturing the arts in Medina County through events, grants, and educational programs.

About Medina County Historical Society The Medina County Historical Society works to preserve and share the history of Medina County through collections, exhibits, and public programs.

About Medina Show Biz Company The Medina Show Biz Company is a nonprofit community theater group of local residents dedicated to bringing engaging performances and cultural experiences to Medina County.

 For more information about the Spirits of the Past, please visit our website at www.MedinaCountyArtsCouncil.org/spirits-of-the-past or email us at MedinaCoArtsCouncil@gmail.com

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