Towpath Radio Presentation on Early Maumee Valley Settlers Planned During Rally by the River Days
Written by Towpath Radio on June 28, 2026
GRAND RAPIDS, Ohio — Visitors to this year’s Rally by the River Days will have an opportunity to learn more about the region’s early history during a free presentation at the Old Gilead Bookstore.
The bookstore will host “Missionaries of the Maumee,” a historical program presented by Wood County History Museum Educational Coordinator Michael McMaster, at noon on Friday, July 10. The event is being held as part of the community’s Rally by the River Days celebration and coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary observance.
Organizers emphasize that the presentation is historical in nature and will focus on the early people and settlements of the Maumee River region rather than religion. A slideshow will accompany the program.
McMaster is a longtime local historian and former educator who has dedicated his career to sharing the history of Wood County, Ohio and the United States. After teaching in the classroom, he earned a bachelor’s degree in American Culture Studies and now delivers more than 100 presentations each year at schools, senior centers and community organizations.
The presentation will take place on the second floor of the Old Gilead Bookstore, located at 24139 Front Street in Grand Rapids. Organizers note that the building does not have an elevator, which may affect accessibility for some visitors.
Admission is free, and the public is invited to attend.
For additional information, contact Lynne Long at 419-206-1512.
