Unveiling the past, shaping the future: The Wallace Center for Learning and Innovation
Nestled in the heart of Sidney, Ohio, a beacon of both history and innovation radiates through the community, captivating the hearts and minds of residents. The Wallace Family Learning and Innovation Center, a collaborative effort between the Shelby County Historical Society, Eleven Fifty Seven of Sidney, and the 1913 Media Group from Dayton, redefines local education in an engaging and interesting way.
Conceived with a singular vision in 2022, these three organizations came together to establish an immersive space that educates and inspires the area’s youth while fostering a deep appreciation for the community they call home. Named after the influential Wallace family, the center honors their legacy and strives to instill pride, encouraging young minds to envision a future within the borders of Shelby County.
Since its doors opened to the public in April 2023, the center has stood as a testament to the Shelby County Historical Society’s mission. Beyond preserving the rich heritage of Shelby County, the society actively engages and educates residents of all ages, and the Wallace Center is an extension of this commitment, offering an interactive learning environment for the entire community.
Central to the Wallace Center are six meticulously curated galleries, each themed around leadership, highlighting the pivotal role visionary leaders played in critical historical junctures. These galleries act as portals to the past, guiding visitors through moments when local leaders steered the community in the right direction.
A walk through history
The center takes each visitor on a journey through Shelby County’s early history, with pioneer settler Cephas Carey as their guide. An interactive map provides insights into eight historical aspects, detailing the growth of Sidney and the significance of the Shelby County Courthouse as the community’s focal point.
The galleries also delve into the vital role of transportation in Shelby County’s development, exploring the Miami and Erie Canal, railroad, and highway systems. An interactive feature on Korn Field in Montra allows visitors to soar into the skies, revealing the dreams of two farm boys who achieved the extraordinary.
One such visionary on display is W.R. Joslin, the first board president of Pioneer Electric Cooperative, serving from 193S to 1961. A dedicated farmer and forward-thinking individual, Mr. Joslin played a crucial role in electrifying rural communities. His proactive approach, encapsulated in the phrase “Let’s get it done,” exemplified his commitment to progress and literally illuminated the community.
Additionally, visitors uncover the geological gifts that made Shelby County fertile for agriculture and mining. Following W. R. Joslin’s path, they explore the county’s bounty through the eyes of Lewis Warbington.
The Wallace Center traces the evolution of manufacturing in Shelby County, showcasing early industries and present-day corporations. Visitors can process soybeans with Cargill, peek inside a Copeland scroll compressor, and discover the diverse range of items manufactured countywide.
Highlighting impactful individuals from Shelby County, the center tells the stories of those who shaped their community throughout history. Visitors uncover the meaning of being a “Person of Impact” through narratives of past and present figures.
The theme of innovation takes center stage, showcasing its role as a driving force behind Shelby County’s prosperity. Visitors discover how community leaders and entrepreneurs harnessed innovation in the workforce, listening to professionals share their love for their careers and seizing the opportunities that await in the future.
