Adena Mansion & Gardens
Adena Mansion and Gardens has been one of our favorite places to visit. The gardens here are the inspiration behind my 2024 garden goals. Adena Mansion is located in Chillicothe, Ohio (Ross County). Adena Mansion is also part of the Ohio History Connection sites. Out of all the historical places we have visited this has been my children’s favorite place to visit. When arriving there is a small museum to visit and at the desk you will be given the option to take a tour of the mansion – which you must!
The mansion was the home of Thomas and Eleanor Worthington. Thomas Worthington played an integral part in Ohio statehood and was one of the first Ohio senators. The mansion was designed by Benjamin Latrobe and construction was finished in 1807. The mansion housed many people (the Worthington’s and those who worked the land, along with some famous visitors) and holds rich history of the past. The property was originally 2000 acres and today 300 acres remain.
We spent a few hours walking around the museum and property. The mansion has a beautiful kitchen garden. There are paths and a geometric layout. You can also venture out and visit the tenant house, spring house and barn. We had so much fun exploring and just enjoying the beautiful land around the mansion. When it was time for our tour of the mansion we had a wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide. She discussed the history of the home, how the land was worked and how Thomas Worthington help shape Ohio. This is a must visit if you are a local Ohioan as it will help you understand how Ohio began.
Lastly as you are leaving the property you will see a small area to pull over and a sign. This is the place where the inspiration for the Ohio Seal or Coat of Arms came from. As you look out you can see the beauty of the area and understand why this view was chosen. Put this place on your list to visit.
There is a fee to tour the mansion or no charge if you are a member of the Ohio History Connection. You can find more information at adenamansion.com. The mansion is open April through October and located at 847 Adena Road, Chillicothe, OH, USA.
