Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home

The Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home sat on expansive grounds featuring residence halls, a hospital, gymnasium, farm, and educational buildings. Children received formal schooling alongside vocational training in crafts including tin smithing, wood carving, knitting, and blacksmithing until they turned sixteen.

Founded in 1869 by the Grand Army of the Republic, the institution cared for children who lost fathers during the American Civil War. It grew into one of the largest facilities of its kind in the nation during the postwar period.

The weekly newspaper published here starting in 1876 gave children a voice to record their daily lives and improve their writing skills. This publication became a meaningful way for residents to share their experiences and connect with the wider community.

The complex is located in Xenia and features preserved historic buildings still in active use along with open spaces that allow exploration of the grounds. Visitors should be aware that some areas remain in use and may have limited access or require advance notice for viewing.

Today the property houses Collier Chapel for weddings and Athletes in Action and Legacy Christian Academy in restored historic buildings. This transformation shows how the grounds shifted from a memorial space into a functioning community hub serving multiple purposes.

Location: Xenia

Inception: 1869

Founders: Grand Army of the Republic

GPS coordinates: 39.66470,-83.92440

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:10