The Johnson’s bought this house in 1816 and lived here until 1863.
Orange Johnson started his career as a horn smith, making ladies’ hair combs from cow horn. This video illustrates the process that Mr. Johnson used. (Video courtesy of WOSU: Columbus Neighborhoods)
Orange Johnson (1790 – 1876) came to Worthington in 1814 when he was 24 years old. He was a comb maker, a farmer, and investor. He also oversaw the construction of the Sandusky to Columbus turnpike; a road that connected Columbus to Lake Erie. The road passed right through Worthington in front of Mr. Johnson’s house. He later helped bring the railroad to Columbus and started a bank.
Achsa Maynard Johnson (1791 – 1882) came to Worthington in 1806 at age 15 with her family. The journey took 43 days and the travelling party camped outside over nights. She married Orange Johnson in 1816.
Watch a hornsmith make a comb below!
Mary Johnson Sessions (1823 – 1919) grew up at the Orange Johnson House. She went to a school for young ladies in Worthington. At age 24 she married Francis Sessions and moved to Columbus. She lived to the age 96 in a mansion in Columbus. After she died, her house was donated to found the Columbus Museum of Art.
Worthington Female Seminary, where Mary attended school as a young lady.