We packed all the essentials - hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, toilet paper and masks. We took my vehicle. It has a moon roof which was perfect for the GoPro. Mr. Trent is the videographer, so I was the driver for this adventure.
On the way we stumbled across Prospect Place Estate. It was not open at the time we stopped. I took some shots from the road, and we continued - flying past farm fields, cutting down empty old roads trying to find all the perfect shots for the project. Out on those roads with the wind buzzing around the vehicle for a minute or two it did not seem like we were in the midst of a pandemic….it just seemed like a regular adventure.
We decided we were hungry -I had packed some snacks, we did however decide to pick up some fast food…..gingerly and anxiously we chose a place and ordered-the only problem there were absolutely NO bathrooms open anywhere. Now I have to say I am spoiled-most of the time Mr. Trent and I galivant it is in the comfort of the van with most of the luxuries of home including a tiny camping toilet! I settled for a large clump of trees keeping my eyes open for snakes and poison ivy, with just enough brush to keep fellow travelers’ eyes off me.
We stumbled across a scenic little pond and took a break to explore some areas of Zanesville, Ohio. We stretched our legs and walked to the bridges where the Muskingum and licking rivers come together. It was a mixture of farm town and history, I definitely want to spend a little more time there again but we were ready to head back to our home and I wanted to drive by Prospect Place estate again.
We headed north through Dresden, Ohio on Main street and out toward Trinway. The estate sat formally off the right side of the road. The gates were open. I was delighted to find it was open for tours-limited of course with all the appropriate rules being followed. I parked and grabbed my camera and started the self-guided tour. What a treat, it is a beautiful home and there were people to answer questions -best of all photography was allowed. I am completely obsessed with the intricacies of these old structures, so this was a much-needed treat.
The home was a stop in the Underground Railroad-I could not even imagine coming through fields and woods to the grand home, a place to get food, water and warmth while looking for safety and rest. I could picture the brick stables filled with horses and livestock in the surrounding fields. In the house I imagined the elaborate parties in the attic ballroom, the secret meetings behind the keyhole framed doors and the day-to-day hustle and bustle. The access to the basement was convenient. The brick structure would have been cool in the hot summer months for weary travelers to rest and there were many fireplaces for people to warm up in the colder months.
I am looking forward to visiting Prospect Place Estate again. I foresee more adventures with family exploring some of Ohio’s small towns this summer.