The Story of the Wilder–Swaim House and MHPA

A Tale of Two Churches

In this episode of Montgomery Memories, hosts Tracey Henao and Kevin Chesar explore the history of two significant local landmarks: the Hopewell–Montgomery Presbyterian Church and the Universalist Church. The episode traces their shared beginnings in the early 1800s, when settlers established Hopewell as a central place of worship and community life. Over time, theological differences led to a division, with some members forming the Universalist Church to embrace more progressive beliefs. Despite this split, both churches played important roles in shaping Montgomery’s social and cultural development. Through stories of their construction, unique features, and preservation, the episode highlights how these buildings reflect both differing perspectives and a shared community identity—showing how faith, change, and cooperation helped shape the Montgomery we know today.

The Story of the Wilder–Swaim House and MHPA

In this episode of Montgomery Memories, hosts Tracy Henao and Kevin Chesar spotlight the Montgomery Historic Preservation Association (MHPA) and the history of the Wilder–Swaim House with special guest Janet Korach, longtime MHPA leader and local historian. The discussion traces MHPA’s origins, its role in preserving Montgomery’s shared history, and the story of the Wilder–Swaim House—from its construction in the 1830s through its preservation as a historic landmark. Through reflections on early farm life, community effort, and volunteerism, the episode highlights how preservation connects past and present and invites listeners to experience Montgomery’s history firsthand.

Hopewell Cemetery

Hopewell Cemetery is more than a final resting place, it’s a history book written in stone. In this episode of Montgomery Memories Podcast, Hosts Kevin Chesar and Tracy Henao, joined by Connie Gaylor, explore the pioneers and veterans who shaped Montgomery and reveal why each tombstone holds a story waiting to be remembered. Hopewell Cemetery is historically significant, serving as the burial location of many of the City’s first settlers, Revolutionary War Veterans, and Civil War Veterans. The cemetery was created by the early settlers in the area as a place of respect, a means of honoring their triumphs and perpetuating the memory of loved ones. Join Tracy, Kevin, and Connie as they explore the Pioneer Section and why each tombstone tells a story.

The Birth of Historic Preservation in Montgomery

In Episode 2 of Montgomery Memories, hosts Tracy Henao and Kevin Chesar take listeners back to the beginnings of historic preservation in Montgomery. From grassroots efforts to save the Universalist Church to the community response that followed the loss of the Presbyterian Manse, this episode traces how citizen advocacy, private investment, and local leadership shaped preservation policies that still define Montgomery today. It’s a story about protecting identity, honoring community memory, and ensuring Montgomery’s history remains part of its future.

Montgomery's Origin Story

Episode 1 introduces the Indigenous history of the Montgomery area and the early families who settled at the crossroads of two Native trails. It traces how their small frontier settlement grew into a community centered on faith, education, and local enterprise, laying the foundation for the Montgomery we know today. If you have ideas to share, please email us at memories@montgomeryohio.gov.