The potential for environmental, cultural and heritage tourism is on the minds of Western Ohioans this Fall, as one region celebrates Ohio’s newest byway and another seeks to duplicate that effort.

With 52 miles of winding roads, the brand-new “Old Mill Stream Scenic Byway” travels through Putnam and Hancock Counties on its route from Ottawa to US Route 30 (the Lincoln Highway). Visitors to the route experience small towns and villages, and also pass through Findlay, hometown of the Marathon Oil Company and The University of Findlay. The route takes its name from the song, “Down By the Old Mill Stream,” which was written by Tin Pan Alley songster Tel Taylor – who hailed from Vanlue. The old stream in question is the Blanchard River, which parallels the byway.

Click here for more information on the Old Mill Stream Scenic Byway from the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Many miles to the south, the residents of the Oxford area are working toward creation of new byway in the western portion of Butler County, according to this recent article in the Oxford Press. Initial work includes identifying the ideal byway route as well as reviewing potential attractions and amenities. Like its counterpart to the north, the potential exists for bringing new business to existing merchants, as well as encouraging downtown and community revitalization.

While there are many definitions given for a scenic byway, the standard national definition is that it is a route that is recognized for its archeological, aesthetic, cultural, natural, historic and/or recreational qualities.

Photo: Blanchard River near Findlay/Public Domain