The Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum, also known as the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum, is a one-of-a-kind attraction located in Logan, Ohio. This museum boasts an impressive collection of over 5,000 pencil sharpeners, making it the largest of its kind in America.
Address and Contact Information
- Address: 13178 State Route 664 S., Logan, OH 43138
- Phone Number: 740-385-9706
- Website: Available (no specific URL provided)
History and Overview
The museum was founded by Reverend Paul A. Johnson, who began collecting pencil sharpeners over 20 years ago. His passion for these humble yet fascinating tools led him to amass an incredible collection, which has been featured in national magazines and is considered the largest in the United States. After Johnson’s passing in 2010, his wife Charlotte donated the collection to the public, ensuring that this unique treasure trove would be accessible to all.
The Collection and Exhibits
The Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum is home to an astounding collection of over 5,000 pencil sharpeners, some dating back to the early 1800s. These sharpeners are displayed in museum-quality cases, allowing visitors to marvel at the diverse designs, materials, and mechanisms that have been used to sharpen pencils throughout history.
Highlights of the Collection
- Earliest Examples: The museum boasts some of the earliest pencil sharpeners, dating back to the early 1800s, showcasing the evolution of this humble tool.
- Diverse Designs: The collection features a wide range of sharpener designs, from simple hand-cranked models to intricate, mechanized devices.
- Unique Materials: Pencil sharpeners in the museum’s collection are crafted from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and even plastic.
Visiting the Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum
Visiting the Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum is a unique and rewarding experience for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Admission and Accessibility
- Admission: Admission to the museum is free, making it an accessible attraction for all.
- Accessibility: The new facility is handicapped accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the museum’s exhibits.
Location and Hours
- Location: The museum is located within the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center, providing visitors with a convenient starting point to explore the region.
- Hours: The museum’s hours are not explicitly stated, but can be obtained by contacting the museum or visiting the welcome center.
Recommended Stops
- Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center: Visitors are encouraged to stop by the welcome center to obtain a map of the region and learn about other attractions in the Hocking Hills area.
Reopening and Recent Updates
- Reopening: The Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum recently reopened on January 20, 2024, after a two-year hiatus.
- Improvements: The museum has undergone renovations and improvements to enhance the visitor experience, including the installation of new, museum-quality display cases.
Conclusion
The Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum is a truly unique and fascinating attraction that offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of a seemingly ordinary tool. With its impressive collection of over 5,000 pencil sharpeners, the museum provides a one-of-a-kind experience for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Whether you’re a collector, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the quirky and the unexpected, the Hocking Hills Pencil Sharpener Museum is a must-visit destination in the heart of Ohio’s Hocking Hills region.
References
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g50566-d3427450-Reviews-Paul_A_Johnson_Pencil_Sharpener_Museum-Logan_Ohio.html
- https://www.explorehockinghills.com/things-to-do/arts-museums/museums/pencil-sharpener-museum/
- https://www.dispatch.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2024/01/04/over-5000-pencil-sharpeners-on-display-at-hocking-hills-ohio-museum/72104905007/