Two Belmont County Locations Included on America 250-Ohio Creativity Trail
New Ohio Creativity Trail assembles 100+ attractions showcasing Ohio’s significant contributions to American history in six creative arts fields
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, two local attractions—the National Imperial Glass Museum in Bellaire and the Mail Pouch Barn at Barkcamp State Park in Belmont—have been selected as official stops on the new Ohio Creativity Trail. This unique driving trail features 108 sites throughout Ohio and highlights the state’s past and present writers, musicians, artists, and other creatives whose work has significantly influenced artistic expression in America.
The Ohio Creativity Trail is the second of six themed trails planned under the America 250-Ohio Trails & Tales program. The featured attractions are categorized into six themes, which include On the Page, Music, Visual Arts, Glass & Pottery, Folk & Traditional Art, and Carousels.
Belmont County’s Featured Creativity Trail Sites:
National Imperial Glass Museum (Bellaire, Ohio)
Founded in 1901, the Imperial Glass Company helped earn Bellaire the nickname “Glass City.” Imperial produced exquisite pressed glass patterns, and its craftsmanship was recognized worldwide. For over 20 years, the National Imperial Glass Museum has preserved the company’s legacy, showcasing its designs and skilled artisans.
Mail Pouch Barn at Barkcamp State Park Belmont, Ohio)
Harley Warrick is a legendary barn painter from Belmont County. He became an iconic figure in American folk art through his work on Mail Pouch Tobacco barns. During his 55-year career, he painted or retouched over 20,000 barns across 13 states. His signature style turned rural barns into roadside Americana with the famous “Chew Mail Pouch Tobacco” slogan. We honor his legacy with a historical marker at Barkcamp State Park, next to one of his famous painted barns.
“Belmont County is honored to be included with two stops on this statewide tourism initiative highlighting the arts in Ohio,” said Jackee Pugh, Executive Director of Belmont County Tourism. “Our region has a deep and lasting connection to creativity—from the world-renowned glass craftsmanship in Bellaire to the folk art legacy of Harley Warrick. It’s exciting to see these contributions recognized on a statewide platform that will bring more visitors to experience the unique stories of Belmont County.”
“It’s no secret that Ohioans leave their mark on the world, whether in the form of paint on a canvas, words on a page, or new artistic ways to express thoughts and ideas,” said Todd Kleismit, Executive Director of America 250-Ohio. “In partnership with Belmont County Tourism, we’re showcasing their great work, as well as other talented artists across Ohio, to generate excitement for our state’s significant contributions to the cultural fabric of America. We look forward to celebrating with Belmont County Tourism throughout 2025 and 2026.”
To learn more about the America 250-Ohio Trails & Tales Program and the Ohio Creativity Trail, visit https://america250-ohio.org/trails-and-tales/.
