4th annual Bluffton History Day finds “History Hiding in Plain Sight”
MEDIA RELEASE__The Bluffton Ohio Historical Society hosts the 4th annual History Day on Saturday, August 8 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., focusing on three well-known Bluffton businesses of yesteryear: Fett Hardware, Gillett Pastry Shop and Hankish Confectionery. The theme for the 2026 event is “History Hiding in Plain Sight.”
The renowned Gillett sausage rolls and Hankish’s family recipe ice cream will be served for free throughout the event in downtown Bluffton.
Bluffton's recipe for a great National Night Out includes perfect pool weather, a DJ pumping out the tunes, plenty of games and activities, fireworks and lots and lots of hot dogs grilled by Bluffton Council members. Oh, and all of the above is provided as a free family night out thanks to the organizing efforts of the Bluffton Police Department.
On August 4, the Bluffton Community Pool was the scene for this big party, which has grown in popularity throughout the last 12 years.
August 8 Bluffton History Day activities include a scavenger hunt with 12 details from historic downtown buildings (Hint: look up!) First, second, and third place prizes will go to the first people to complete the scavenger hunt, with Langan Family Finds providing the prizes.
The prizes are a trophy, a gift card and a coupon for Langan Family Finds.
All who complete the hunt get a coupon for $1 off a boba drink at Langan Family Finds, 107 Vine St.
Even a quick conversation with Jana Hughes, the granddaughter of Charles (Charley) Hankish, gives a taste of memories that linger from Hankish Confectionary, a Bluffton business from 1906-1956. Hughes was born after the store closed but provides tantalizing glimpses of Charley's gift for candy and business.
MEDIA RELEASE__The Bluffton Ohio Historical Society invites everybody to visit downtown Bluffton for the fourth annual History Day this Saturday between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Chicken BBQ dinners will be available with advance purchase at the Bluffton Presbyterian Church, located at the corner of Main and Cherry Streets, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Tickets are $10 each from Historical Society members, the Black Lab, or by calling or texting 419-672-8627, 419-303-5116, or 419-231-3710.
Local and regional performers are preparing for Bluffton's Play Music on the Porch Day (a.k.a. PorchFest) on August 29. This worldwide movement encourages people to spend the day outdoors, visiting with neighbors while playing or listening to music.
For a complete lineup and a map of where the bands will be playing, visit the event Facebook page.
