Sat, Aug 08
|South Newbury Union Chapel
Union Chapel Tour & Bat Watch
Join us for a tour of the 1858 “Free Speech Chapel” with historian Dr. Bari Oyler Stith, and tour the property to learn about the Centennial Oak that received an Ohio Historical Marker, and watch for the endangered Little Brown Bats emerging from nearby roosting structures.
Time & Location
Aug 08, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
South Newbury Union Chapel, 15829 Ravenna Rd, Burton, OH 44021, USA
About the event
Historian and Chapel Trustee Bari Oyler Stith, Ph.D. hosts a look inside this landmark on the National Register of Historic Places and explains the unique creation, status, and stories of the “Free Speech Chapel” built in 1858. In the 19th and 20th centuries James Garfield, Susan B. Anthony, and Louisa May Alcott are among those whose spoke at the Union Chapel, influencing social reforms that shaped our nation well beyond its walls. We'll learn about about the Centennial Oak which is receiving an Ohio Historical Marker this summer, and at dusk, we’ll watch for the endangered Little Brown Bats emerging from roosting structures on the surrounding Geauga Park District property. Despite white-nose syndrome’s decimation of bat populations, we will likely see bats leaving the “bat condos” to begin their evening food foraging.
Know Before You Go
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trail Conditions: Flat
Footwear & Clothing: Dress for the weather. Ticks are active this time of year - to help protect yourself you may want to wear light colored clothing, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
Dogs & Pets: Please leave dogs and other pets at home unless the event description specifically states that they are permitted. Service animals are welcome in accordance with applicable law.
What to Bring: Water is recommended for all excursions. Depending on the program, you may also wish to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, walking poles, or a small day pack.
Parking: There is limited parking at the Chapel - please carpool if possible.
Additional Notes: Excursions take place in natural outdoor settings. Conditions may change due to weather, trail conditions, wildlife activity, or other site-specific factors. Foundation staff or excursion leaders may adjust the route or program as needed for participant safety and resource protection.
Limited to 30 people.
If you find you have RSVP'd and CANNOT attend, please e-mail admin@foundationforgeaugaparks.org so that someone on the wait list may take your place.
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