That’s one small step for (a) man, one giant leap for mankind.
As the local astronaut was saying those words, Ohio officials were already planning a museum to honor Armstrong’s achievement, as well as all Ohioans who have attempted to defy gravity. Armstrong’s exploits and other achievements in Ohio’s history of flight can be experienced at the Ohio Historical Society’s Armstrong Air & Space Museum. The museum takes visitors on a journey through aerospace history. Designed to resemble a futuristic moon base, the building’s white dome actually houses the Astro-Theater that presents multi-media presentations of space exploration. The museum is home to the Gemini 8 flown by Armstrong in 1966, a space shuttle landing simulator and a piece of moon rock.
Step into the past at the Auglaize County Historical Society’s Wapakoneta Local History Museum, housed in the long-standing First Presbyterian Church, or take the Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Wapakoneta, a self-guided journey that showcases more than 30 historic points of interest. Historically significant structures, both commercial and residential, that were built in the 19th and early 20th century still stand today as a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its past. A brochure highlighting the various historic destinations can be picked up at the Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce’s downtown office at 30 E. Auglaize St.
The Auglaize County Fairgrounds is busy throughout the year, hosting a number of events. Among the more notable happenings at the fairgrounds is the annual St. Joe Festival in July and, of course, the Auglaize County Fair in August. This much-anticipated weeklong festival features an always-bustling entertainment tent, a tractor/truck pull, harness racing, a demolition derby, exciting rides and a huge 4-H junior fair program. Further popular events occurring year-round include the Summer Moon Festival, the Halloween Parade, and the Holiday Open House—to name a few.