Experience Charm

View a Map of the Area

The cozy village of Charm is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of southeast Holmes County. A destination of its own, it's well worth the stop!

Just west of Berlin, State Route 557 branches south off of State Route 39. Route 557 runs from Route 39 along the gorgeous Doughty Valley to State Route 643 a total of about 10 to 14 miles.

The town, originally called Stevenson, developed along an old Indian trail. After the town acquired its own post office in 1885 the name officially changed to its current title.

For many years, it has borne the curious nickname of "Putschtown" which means "a small clump."

A blacksmith shop was the first business started in "Stevenson" around 1840. From the beginning, business was an integral part of the community.

Local business and trade has expanded to cater to the ever growing tourist industry. Rising to the challenge, business activity has succeeded in meeting this demand.

The Ultimate Lumber Store

Probably of greatest notoriety is Keim Lumber a family-owned business since 1911. They opened their newly expanded showroom in early 2007. A must-see 120,000 square feet of sheer delight.

If you're like me, you'll drool at all the cool power tools! These aren't your ordinary tools though - they're not just "big boy toys" - these are "real-man" tools. We're talking professional and commercial grade planers, sanders, saws, joiners and much more!

While the guys mentally design their dream woodworking shop, the ladies can check out all the home supplies. Selections range from beautiful solid hardwood flooring to designer cabinets, vanities, lighting and much more.

They are a full service hardware and lumberyard store offering a huge variety of products and services. Partners with Do-it Best, this store rivals Lowes or Home Depot except they feature Amish and Mennonite craftsmen at your service to design your dream project or to meet your remodeling needs.

They even have their own mill to make custom doors, moldings, fireplace mantles, and everything in between. And if that's not enough, they now feature The Carpenter's Café. In case you get overwhelmed at the immensity of the store, you can eat and relax before looking around some more.

A Horse Of Course

After dragging me away from the power tool section and finally convincing me to move on to our next destination, my daughters spied Charm Harness & Boot.

The girls are your typical dreamy horse-lovers. The store was a required stop. This time, it was their turn to look and drool at all the "gorgeous" horse tack and western wear.

I still think the tools were better, but I'm out-numbered when it comes to a vote!

Charm Days

Fall is by far the most beautiful season to be in Amish Country. If you're in the area the second weekend in October, be sure to stay for the annual Merchant Days!

It started in 1982 as a way to reinvest funds in the local community. By 1988 the vision expanded to form the Charm Community Share 'N Care Fund. This organization's mission is to assist local families in need.

The event now includes a benefit auction. This auction raises thousands of dollars to help with medical needs or to give finacial assistance to the misfortunate. Many people from outside the community come to support this worthy cause.

Other attractions at the event include: Volley for Charity, Horseback Fun Show, live entertainment, flea markets and even a Wooly Bear Derby (caterpillar race at the elementary school).

For more things to see and do in the area, check out the following links:

Charm Listings

Shops

Attractions

Restaurants and Dining

Lodgings and Accommodations

Local Churches

Return from Charm to Experience Ohio Amish Country

_________________________________________________________________ Historical information adapted from "Historical Album of Charm, Ohio," written by Vernon J. Miller. Charm Days info from "The Budget" article by Jon Scholles.