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Memorial Day view at Maple Grove

The Bluffton American Legion Post 382 decorated 501 graves in Maple Grove cemetery (Columbus Grove Rd.) for Memorial Day 2023. The view here is under the monumental white oak located at the northern end of the cemetery. Stay tuned for additional coverage of events.

Our town was on the Underground Railroad

By Fred Steiner
www.BlufftonForever.com

Details in a recently found obituary of a Bluffton man who died 125 years ago could be one of the most incredible discoveries in the community’s history.

There’s no historic marker at the entrance to town and the person in this story is buried in an unmarked Maple Grove Cemetery grave, listed as old lot number 120. 

Would you believe Bluffton was a stop on the underground railroad moving African American slaves to Canada? That fact came to light  with the discovery of the obituary or Peter K. Mumma, who died here in 1898.

Mumma’s secret was well-kept as his obituary reads, from a June 1898, Bluffton News.

In a search for his Bluffton residence, an 1880 map shows Elizabeth Mumaugh (sic) owner of Bluffton lot 19, on Riley Street directly south of where Little Riley joins Big Riley Creek. An adjoining property, lot 12, owned by Elizabeth Mumaugh and Wilhelmina Eaton is on the north side of Riley Street, and today is intersected by Spring Street. Peter’s obituary lists his wife’s name as Elizabeth.

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BHS graduation ceremonies both solemn and joyous

By Paula Scott

Ninety Seniors crossed the stage in the Bluffton High School gymnasium this past Saturday and were awarded their diplomas in ceremonies both solemn and joyous. School and district representatives served in their official capacities, while students provided commentary on the momentous occasion.

The evening began with a darkened room and a music video displaying a pair of photos for each student: one as baby or toddler followed by a current photo of the graduate. A montage of activities was next, showing the Class of 2023 over the past 13 years.

CONTINUES WITH ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & PROGRAM

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Bluffton Cars & Coffee starts up May 27

At the north end of Bluffton, in the parking lot of Masterpiece Signs & Graphics, 902 N Main St, you find an informal gathering for enthusiasts and their cars on the fourth Saturday of the month, May to October.

The event is scheduled for 8:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Dates are May 27 • June 24 • July 22 • August 26 • September 23 • October 28.

Twisted Whisk Cafe will be on site with coffee and pastries.

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BFR summer group exercise schedule

Group exercises at Bluffton Family Recreation will start the week on May 29th and continue over the summer. There will be no classes on Memorial Day. For more information, or to register for classes online, go to www.bfronline.com.

Community Foundation awards $915K in grants

FINDLAY—The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Board of Trustees approved grants totaling $915,189 at the May board meeting. This total includes 17 responsive grants and 41 donor advised fund grants.

“These grants represent the investment of generous local philanthropists in the community,” said Brian Treece, President & CEO of the Foundation. “We’re proud to partner with these donors to award these grants and improve the quality of life for all in Hancock County.”

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