Submitted messages
The Ohio Tobacco Museum held its annual meeting earlier this year, where votes were counted and several new board members were elected. Kenny Ring, David Dugan, Nick Layman and Larry Hall were elected to terms that end in April 2026. Tim Ratliff, Harold Cropper and Michael (Bo) Napier will serve until April 2027, while Jim Schadle and Betty Jo Ratliff’s terms end in April 2028. David Dugan will remain as board chair, Betty Jo Ratliff will serve as secretary, Amanda Snider-Layman will serve as treasurer and Kristin McRoberts will direct public communications.
In an exciting new project, a small crop of tobacco was planted on the museum grounds this season. The plants were grown in a floating bed, and demonstration Saturdays began with soil testing conducted by John Brown of the Brown County Soil and Water District, followed by planting the tobacco. A demonstration of the tobacco bowl was scheduled for August 17, with cutting planned for September, weather permitting.
Thanks to the efforts of community volunteers, the museum’s buildings, grounds and exhibits have been continually improved. Recent improvements include the installation of new windows in the museum’s main building, made possible through the efforts of Rick Blackburn of Ripley and Tri-State Wholesale Building Supplies in Cincinnati. In addition, a custom stainless steel step plate was donated for the front door, while Terry Kemmeter of Ripley continued to help with exhibit enhancements and refreshing signage paint. Board members are committed to ensuring the museum remains open to the public, financially viable and well maintained through their volunteer efforts.
Community involvement is welcome and anyone who would like to offer their time or special skills to the museum is asked to reach out via Facebook Messenger, email (email protected) or by contacting one of the board members directly.
Membership opportunities are available. Forms are available at the museum or by email. In addition, the museum asks for support through purchases through its Amazon wish list or monetary donations. The mailing address for contributions is Ohio Tobacco Museum, Inc., PO Box 61, Ripley, Ohio, 45167.
Mark your calendar for April 12, 2025 to attend the Annual Membership Meeting and Fundraiser. To receive notifications of special events and ticket sales, as well as a quarterly report, please email
(email protected). For more information about museum events, like, follow, and share the Ohio Tobacco Museum Facebook page.
