by Phil Obermiller
Access to a flowing river, flat farmland, and the Little Miami Railroad convinced the Ohio militia to establish Camp Dennison in southern Ohio. Named for the then governor of Ohio, it was a Civil War recruitment and training center accommodating thousands of Union soldiers between 1861 and 1865. Today Camp Dennison’s population of 345 includes trail enthusiasts Barbara Wilson and Anne Lehnig.
With plants, pots, mulch, and a bench provided by Symmes Township Anne (above left) and Barbara (right) created an inviting stop at the intersection of the trail and Cunningham Road. A block south, at the Lincoln Road intersection, they also landscaped around a FLMSP bench and helped organize a “Little Free Library” kiosk for passersby.
Their attractive hardscaping in both locations includes large rocks they’ve excavated by hand, and hitching posts for horses from nearby Derbyshire Stables. With a gentle smile, Anne adds that “Those posts also help keep cyclists from propping their bikes on the planters.”
Barbara and Anne note that theirs is a community effort supported by the township and the Camp Dennison Civic League, along with neighbors such as Tom Alford who helps with the heavy lifting and others who help keep the plants watered. The women say they are “happy to do the small things that highlight the beauty of our area…there’s so much potential here.” When working at the intersections they maintain, they enjoy the appreciation shown by many trail users who stop to complement their work, or simply offer a smile with a thumbs up on their way by.
Barbara says many folks who stop to chat frequently ask “Where are we? Is this Milford? Loveland?” Calling Camp Dennison “a hidden gem,” Anne and Barbara are always pleased to tell folks about their community. Some of these conversations lead to questions about whether there are any homes for sale…proximity to the trail is considered an attractive amenity.
After three years working as undocumented volunteers, Barbara and Anne have filled out the proper paperwork and now proudly display the Friends of the Little Miami State Park official Volunteer Trail Crew signs on their cars.
Next time you’re in the area of mile marker 49 on the trail you’ll be in the heart of the “hidden gem,” Camp Dennison. And if you see them, be sure to say “Hi” to the women who keep it polished.
FLMSP member Phil Obermiller is a Far South Trail Sentinel.
November 2023
