Perrysburg’s annual Harrison Rally draws 1000s

9/17/2011

Artists and artisans from across Ohio and Michigan along with scores of area organizations and businesses set up shop along Louisiana Avenue and some of the side streets of Perrysburg’s main drag Saturday to celebrate one of the community’s most important figures from the frontier days.

Harrison Rally Day is named for William Henry Harrison, whose distinction includes becoming the first U.S. president to die in office, is part art fair and another part business exhibit, along with bands, food, and children’s rides.

Sandy Latchem, executive director of the Perrysburg Area Chamber of Commerce, said 240 booths — a sellout — were set up for the one-day event, which began with a parade and concluded with the “rock the docks” after party.

The event is put on together with the Perrysburg Area Arts Council.

Ms. Latchem said the event draws thousands of visitors each year.

Harrison, credited with building Fort Meigs on the Maumee River in northwest Ohio, took ill shortly after his inauguration and died on his 32nd day in office.