FREMONT, Ohio — An area of northwest Ohio's history was recognized more than 50 years ago with a historical marker, but it was later lost and forgotten.
However, a local business expanding its footprint led to a discovery.
In 1971, the Sandusky County Historical Society installed a historic marker along the Sandusky River to mark the ancient walking path Native Americans used to get around rough rapids.
But after the Portage Trail Canoe Livery closed, the sign fell into disrepair and was eventually forgotten.
Local amateur historian John Richey said recently, he visited Sandusky County to take pictures of all 17 county historic markers.
"I found 16 of them and the one I couldn't find was the Portage Trail Marker," Richey said. "I went back and forth and back and forth. Couldn't find it, drove me nuts."
Then, the owners of Ghoul Runnings Kayak Adventures began expanding their property after last season and came upon the old marker.
"Knocked down, buried, covered in trees, debris and everything else,' said Bob Turner, who owns Ghoul Runnings along with Beth Turner.
Beth and Bob paid to have the marker restored, and in a rededication ceremony Friday unveiled the piece of Sandusky County history.
Local historians say the Portage trail played a huge role in not only Native American history, but American history, too.
"The first victory in the War of 1812 at Fort Stephenson where they used the trail and General Harrison, so, it's a very significant area of history," said Larry Michaels, a member of the Sandusky County Historical Society.
Now visitors to the local business will always be reminded they weren't the first to use the area to access the Sandusky River.
"It's got significance because of all of the people that came before us," Richey said. "I think part of our responsibility then is to carry it forward for future generations and to highlight the importance of it."
Ghoul Runnings kicks off its 2024 season on Memorial Day.