Johnston Farm & Indian Agency Native American, Frontier, and Canal History

"On the ground stood one of General Wayne's Forts...after the troops were withdrawn te buildings, pickets and blockhouses were left intact.  ...the military had 40 or 50 acres under cultivation and under good fence...." 

Letter, John Johnston, 1858

The museum, some '400 paces' from Johnston's farm as John Johnston recorded, is a modern building, which was constructed to resemble the blockhouse style of Fort Piqua, General Anthony Wayne's 18th-century supply post. Exhibits trace the story of the Eastern Woodland Indians of Ohio and the Pickawillany village site. Restroom facilities and a gift shop are located in the museum.

The patio portion of the museum building allows visitors the opportunity to view a restored mile-long section of the Miami and Erie Canal, which extended the length of Ohio from Toledo to Cincinnati. Inside, interpretive panels explore Johnston's later role as a state canal commissioner and provide an introduction to how canals helped in the development and expansion of frontier Ohio. Guests may enjoy a ride aboard the General Harrison of Piqua, a replica 70-foot-long canal boat often used for transportation of passengers and cargo in the 19th century. Costumed guides direct the mule-drawn boat to provide an authentic and memorable experience for all.