COSHOCTON, Ohio, April 6, 2026 — The Roscoe Village Foundation (RVF) and the Coshocton City & County Park District today announced a collaborative initiative in which RVF will restore and operate the historic canal boat experience at Roscoe Village, preserving and elevating one of Coshocton’s most treasured heritage assets.
The initiative builds on the Park District’s long-standing stewardship of the canal boat, towpath, horses, and canal corridor, while introducing new investment, operations, and programming led by RVF to enhance and sustain the experience for future generations.
The total restoration project is estimated at approximately $160,000. Through the Elevate the Legacy Initiative, RVF is making a significant investment to lead the effort while also opening the door for donors, foundations, and community partners to be part of this historic restoration. The Coshocton Rotary Foundation has already committed $20,000, and additional conversations are underway with foundations, corporate partners, and community supporters who want to share in bringing this experience to life.
“This is what true collaboration looks like,” said Sharon Bucey, executive-in-residence of the Roscoe Village Foundation. “Through Elevate the Legacy, we are stepping forward with a meaningful commitment because we believe in the power of this experience — not just to preserve history, but to bring people together. And we want this to be a community investment, not just ours. As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats, and this is our moment to lift this experience and our entire community.”
The canal boat, Monticello III, is one of only a few remaining working canal boat experiences in Ohio — a living connection to the state’s canal era, when waterways like the Ohio & Erie Canal fueled commerce, connection, and community development. Today, it stands as both a rare historic asset and an immersive way for visitors to experience Ohio’s early transportation history firsthand.
This spring, minor cosmetic improvements will prepare the canal boat for the upcoming season. Following the season, the boat will be taken out of the water in the fall for a full structural restoration led by Abe Yoder of ADM Construction, a respected local craftsman known for his precision and care. The project will involve removing and rebuilding the canal boat’s wooden structure, ensuring the experience remains both historically authentic and structurally sound for generations to come.
“Coshocton Lake Park and the canal corridor are central to our community’s identity,” said Tammi Rogers, executive director of the Coshocton City & County Park District. “For years, we have been proud to steward these assets for our community. This collaboration allows us to build on that foundation, bringing new energy, investment, and experiences while ensuring they are preserved and protected for generations to come.”
Together, the organizations are working to elevate the canal boat experience through immersive storytelling, expanded programming, and special events; increase access and engagement, welcoming more visitors to experience canal-era life; position the canal boat as a signature America 250 experience; and create a sustainable model for long-term success through shared investment and planning.
The canal boat experience will continue to operate seasonally beginning Memorial Day weekend, offering public tours, private charters, educational programming, and special events that bring the canal era to life.
Individuals, foundations, and businesses interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to contact Sharon Bucey at sbucey@roscoevillage.com.
About Roscoe Village Foundation
The Roscoe Village Foundation stewards Historic Roscoe Village, a preserved 19th-century canal district located in Coshocton, Ohio. The village was restored in the 1960s through the vision and leadership of Edward and Frances Montgomery. Today, the Foundation carries forward the canal-era values of commerce, connection, and community through preservation, interpretation, and strategic collaboration. Historic Roscoe Village serves as a cultural and economic anchor for the region and a distinctive destination for immersive canal-era experiences. For more information, visit roscoevillage.com.
About Coshocton City and County Park District
The Coshocton City and County Park District manages and develops parks, trails, and recreational facilities that enhance quality of life for residents and visitors throughout Coshocton County. The District stewards key community assets, including Coshocton Lake Park and its 500-acre recreational complex, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, environmental education, and family-friendly experiences. Working in collaboration with local governments, nonprofits, and volunteers, the District is committed to preserving natural resources, honoring local heritage, and advancing health, wellness, and tourism across the Coshocton region.
Contact:
Sharon Bucey
Executive-in-Residence, Roscoe Village Foundation
sbucey@roscoevillage.com | (630) 945-1787