08/06/2026
THE VINTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SITE PROJECT is a program of the Vinton County Historical and Geneological Society Ali Chenaultto identify and commentate places of significant to local heratige and to share these stories.
VINTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SITE plaques have been presented to the following:
LAKE ALMA STATE PARK
Once a grand amusement park with a two story pavilion, carousel and casino, now lies quiet and serene. Built in 1903 by C.K Davis, a wealthy local coal operator, it saw massive success with thousands of visitors. Abandoned in 1910 due to changing economic conditions, it fell into disuse and decay and lay forgotten. In 1945 it became a state park where memories contine to be made today.
MOUND HILL FARM
40 acres that boasts a home, century old barn and school house along with a history, spirit and sacred ground.
Land with a legacy, rich with the history of Indian ancestry and mystery… a symbolic mound of contouring grace has provided the name of a road, school and place. Stories have it that the mound was once opened, exposing human remains. A sacred resting place disturbed by curious men which bore on the conscience of all. What was taken was reinstated putting the the spirits to rest. But the mystery is still present and the story lives on through generations that have come and gone.
Current owner Teresa Snider says “I’m proud of this land and honored to say the mound has not been disturbed to this day! It remains a symbol of Native American ties and provides special meaning for all passing by. “
PLEASANT VALLEY TRINITY CHURCH
Currently located on Old Road 50 in Eagle Twp. in 1867 as a United Brethren In Christ Church, they met in a 6 cornered log building a short distance from the current church. In 1877 a frame building was erected on the current site. In 1943 the church united with the Evangelical Church and the name was changed to Evangelical United Brethren Church. In the early 1900’s, numerous circuit riders served as ministers to the congregation. In 1948 the old weathered building was replaced by the current cinder block building and was dedicated on June 12,1949. In 1968 the church merged with the Methodist Church and the name was changed to United Methodist Church. In 2011 the decision was made to leave the Methodist Church and to become non-denominational and the name was again changed to the Pleasant Valley Trinity Church. A new fellowship hall and elevator have since been added.
MOONVILLE MARKET
Nestled in the heart of Zaleski this building has stood for over a century. It began life in the shadows…as a speakeasy during prohibition…offering whispered secrets and hidden bottles behind closed doors. Over time it became a bar, a cornerstone of the community, serving the people with goods, gossip and comfort. This isn’t just a building, it’s a legacy. Passed down through generations of local families including the Stouts and the Crams, families who lived, worked and built their lives within its walls. Currently owned by Amanda Woltz, a relative of the original owner, she carries with her the memories and stories passed down over the years, treating the building not as just a store but as a living monument to her families history and the towns heritage.
More presentations will follow soon.
Our Historical Landmark Project is ongoing. If you are interested in nominating a site please contact the VC Historical & Genealogical Society at 740-596-0253 for further information.
