Planning a Bicentennial

In 1998, Worthington City Council appointed a committee of residents representing approximately 50 community organizations to assist with plans for the commemoration of Worthington's founding in 1803. This Bicentennial Committee met twice in 1998. The members of the Committee "brainstormed" over 200 different ideas for Bicentennial celebrations. These ideas were then synthesized into themes which focused on audience, activities, bookend events, lasting outcomes, marketing, memorabilia/publications, research and organization. An educational component is to be included wherever possible with these plans.

In 1999, a 17 member Steering Committee (comprised of members of the full Committee) co-chaired by City Council President Lou Goorey and Council Pro-Tem Lou Briggs, began meeting to develop an organizational framework for the celebration. A committee structure was developed which divided the Steering Committee into six subcommittees: Finance, Development and Fundraising, Major Events, Publicity and Public Relations, Research, and Volunteer Management. The Major Events subcommittee refined the larger list of possible activities into a list of major events upon which to focus the celebration. These events are being overseen by the Steering Committee. Click here for more information about upcoming events.