Tag Archives: downtown new philadelphia

The 1913 Death of John Vlohasthanal and an Unmarked Grave

In 1913 New Philadelphia, a Greek immigrant’s American dream ended in violence and controversy. John Vlohasthanal’s name is, not surprisingly, presented a number of ways in the period documents. I have chosen to use the spelling as it appeared on his official death certificate. John Vlohasthanal (c. 1868–1913), reported in newspapers as John Vlohas, wasContinue reading “The 1913 Death of John Vlohasthanal and an Unmarked Grave”

One House’s Story: The McLean Family

This house sits on a prominent corner in New Philadelphia, befitting the significance of the family that once lived in it. William McLean (1841-1922) was the son of a Maryland-born Methodist preacher named Edward A. McLean (1810-1876) and his Connecticut born wife Julia (1810-?). The couple arrived in Tuscarawas County sometime in the 1830s andContinue reading “One House’s Story: The McLean Family”

Shine On: Philip Barnhard and the Birth of New Philadelphia’s Iconic Sign

Cover photo by Brenda Gottsabend In the winter of 1910, amidst the warmth of Eagle Hall, a newcomer to New Philadelphia ignited the imagination of the community with a visionary proposal for an electrified welcome sign and set in motion a tale of civic pride that would span decades. There were nearly 150 members ofContinue reading “Shine On: Philip Barnhard and the Birth of New Philadelphia’s Iconic Sign”