Stepping Stones Park

Stepping Stones Park. . This "Stepping Stones” area on the Sandusky River has been a large part of local history. Legend has it that the Wyandotte Indians used the stones to cross the river from their reservation to the Mission Church. In the year 1817 the United States Government granted to the Wyandotte Nation a twelve by fourteen mile tract of land to be as long as the trees grew and the river ran. In 1824 the government allotted funds to the Wyandottes to build the Mission Church, which stands today just a few blocks away on the corner of Church and Fifth Streets. By the year 1870 Mr. Patrick O'Brien owned many acres of land along the west side of the Sandusky River. He maintained the "stones” for many years. Mr. Paul Guthrie is also acknowledged for years of interest and work in this area. In the early 1900's the eastside of the river was enjoyed as a picnic ground, and thus the "stones” were once again used for crossing. In 1998 the City of Upper Sandusky, known as "The Indian Village,” celebrated its 150th year. Plans for the new Stepping Stones Park were completed in 1997, and the park was dedicated in the summer of 1998. The large gazebo was a gift from the Upper Sandusky Lions Club, and in 2001 two additional gazebos were added by the City. Residents of Upper Sandusky now enjoy the park as a nature walk and picnic area.