May is National Historic Preservation Month, and Bowling Green has a packed lineup of events to honor the region's rich past. From guided bike tours through Oil Boom neighborhoods to lectures on labor history, there's something for history lovers of every age, and most of it is completely free.
The City of Bowling Green Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) has launched its 4th Annual Historic Self-Guided Walking Tour, "History Lives Here." Using an online map, residents and visitors can explore participating properties throughout the city, each marked with a yard sign and QR code linking to the building's history and photos. Start anywhere you like, though the HPC recommends beginning and ending in Downtown Bowling Green.
Want a little friendly competition? The HPC's scavenger hunt challenges participants of all ages to answer questions using 16 historical signs posted around downtown. Complete it by June 1 and you'll be entered for four chances to win $25 in Downtown Dollars. Paper copies are available at the Planning Department, the Wood County District Public Library, and Downtown Bowling Green, or download one from the city's website.
For a more guided experience, the HPC has partnered with the Bowling Green Pedal Company to offer 90-minute Local History Bike Tours led by HPC member Geoff Howes and local historian Dick Martin. This year's routes include stops along East Wooster Street, South College Drive, and a walking segment through North and South Main Street, covering everything from former BGSU presidents' residences to long-gone opera houses. Remaining tours are scheduled for May 20, May 24, and June 7. Tickets are $30 and can be reserved on the BG Pedal Company website.
The Wood County Museum (13660 County Home Road) has several free programs still ahead this month:
Education on the Road: Mysteries on the Maumee (May 13): Join Mike McMaster, Education Coordinator at the Wood County Committee on Aging, to explore the historical stories along Wood County's riverbanks.
Lost Eateries of Toledo (May 19): Toledo author Tedd Long takes audiences on a journey through the restaurants, diners, and supper clubs that once defined city life but have since disappeared. Free for museum members; ticket required for non-members.
Meet and Greet with Historic Barns author Robert Kroeger (May 26): Dr. Kroeger shares stories from three of his books featuring over 200 barns across 32 states, with a book signing to follow. Free for members; ticket required for non-members.
Food For Victory (May 28): Held at the North Baltimore Public Library, this program covers the history of Victory Gardens, canning, and point rationing on the home front during World War II.
Whether you prefer to pedal, walk, or dig into local archives, Bowling Green has a piece of history waiting for you this May. Get out there and explore.
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