Rev. Adam Poe, the founder of Ohio Wesleyan University, will be speaking at the Barn at Stratford on October 23 at 7 p.m., to be portrayed by Rev. Jon Powers, the OWU chaplain emeritus. The presentation, titled “Be Careful What You Let Upset You! How I Got from Circuit Rider to Founder of a University,” will delve into Poe’s journey from being a pastor to establishing a university in Delaware.
Poe, an elder of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Ohio Area, along with 172 citizens, raised $10,000 to purchase the former Mansion House Hotel, which is now known as OWU’s Elliott Hall. The university received its official charter from the Ohio Legislature in 1842, with a commitment to be open to all religious denominations.
The program will highlight the university’s early days, including the enrollment of 29 male students in 1844 and the establishment of the Ohio Wesleyan Female College in 1853. The merging of the male and female schools in 1854 marked a significant milestone in the university’s history.
The event is free to attend, and donations will be accepted. Rev. Powers is expected to provide an entertaining and informative presentation, shedding light on Poe’s fundraising efforts and the university’s founding. Those interested in attending can register through Eventbrite.
The Delaware County Historical Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Delaware County, Ohio, is responsible for hosting this event. The society offers various educational programs and owns and curates exhibits at historical sites like the Nash House Museum, Meeker Homestead Museum, and the Delaware Historic Jail & Sheriff’s Residence. More information can be found on their website.
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