Holmes County • April 21, 2025
Good morning, Holmes County. A 140-year-old tale of exploding coffins designed to deter grave robbers once captured Ohio's imagination, but journalist Mark Jordan's recent investigation reveals this Brinkhaven Cemetery sensation was likely nothing more than Victorian-era fake news. His deep dive into historical records found no evidence supporting the sensational 1881 reports of body snatchers meeting an explosive demise—a fascinating reminder that even historical headlines sometimes stretched the truth.
Meanwhile, present-day realities continue shaping our community's future. Loudonville-Perrysville Schools returns to voters with their $69 million building project on May 6, emphasizing deteriorating facilities require replacement rather than costly repairs. For those seeking community connection, April's calendar overflows with opportunities—from Dr. Bahan's free wellness series to Ridgewood Middle School's "Beauty and the Beast Jr." performance and the upcoming Big Coshocton Cleanup Day on April 26.
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🏫 Loudonville-Perrysville Schools ask voters to approve massive building project again. The $69 million proposal returns to the ballot May 6 after failing last November, with local taxpayers covering $41 million and the state contributing $15.68 million. District officials emphasize that deteriorating facilities need replacement rather than costly repairs, arguing new buildings would provide improved technology, safety, and accessibility. Despite 56% of voters opposing the previous attempt due to cost concerns, levy committee members Kern, Stitzlein, and Reidenbach remain committed, stating "The need hasn't gone away."
💣 Body-snatching explosion story in Ohio turns out to be a hoax. Journalist Mark Jordan investigated a 140-year-old tale about grave robbers killed by a "coffin torpedo" in Brinkhaven Cemetery. The story, reported in 1881 newspapers, claimed body snatchers triggered an explosive device while attempting to steal a corpse. After examining historical records, cemetery locations, and inconsistencies in news accounts, Jordan concluded the sensational story was likely fabricated to deter grave robbing. No physical evidence or death records support the explosive tale that briefly captured public imagination.
📅 Coshocton County packs April with community events and services. The local calendar features health initiatives including Dr. Jess Bahan's free six-month wellness series and a prescription pill drop-off on April 26. Community events include Ridgewood Middle School's "Beauty and the Beast Jr." performance, the 21st annual Big Coshocton Cleanup Day, and West Lafayette's community yard sales in early May. Organizations are also launching forward-looking programs like United Way's new administrative coordinator, Rotary Club's flag program, and Coshocton Regional Medical Center's school backpack campaign for the upcoming academic year.
Dual living country workshop paradise: Priced at $750,000, this remodeled 1977 home offers 2,887 sq. ft. of living space on 2 rural acres near Millersburg, featuring dual living quarters, wraparound deck, and a massive heated workshop for hobbyists or entrepreneurs.
Modern new build two bed: Priced at $305,000, this modern single-story new construction home offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an open layout with fully equipped kitchen, spacious backyard, and 2-car garage for comfortable living.
Profitable egg farm opportunity: Two commercial poultry barns up for auction on May 9th in Millersburg, OH—9.6 acres with all equipment included, from ventilation systems to a 70-case-per-hour egg packer.
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