Every year, on Father’s Day weekend (Thursday through Saturday) the downtown streets of Logan, Ohio come alive with a celebration of the washboard. Logan is home to the Columbus Washboard Company, the last remaining washboard manufacturing company in the U.S.
Washboards continue to be used as instruments of laundry-day in some parts of the world, plus they add decorative value to many homes. But this artifact of the past is now also known as the source of that toe-tappin’ rhythm coming from Jug bands and Dixieland groups throughout the country.
It all began in rural America around mid-1800’s, where music was a centerpiece of family entertainment, but money was scarce. So, the washboard, an empty jug, along with a stick and string attached to a metal tub turned upside down, became the backwoods answer to Saturday Night at Carnegie Hall.
Modified to form a “vest” that hangs from the shoulders, that same raspy sound of energy also became the source of rhythm for Cajun music throughout the Bayou.
Yes, the washboard is certainly king of this festival, but you will also discover that hometown feeling of community pride, showcasing arts & crafts, food, a tractor show and parade as well as activities for kids, all of which we are continually upgrading to keep the fest fresh and interesting for visitors of all ages, such as including other genres of music: Gospel, folk, and sometimes rock. People with disabilities are welcomed, too, with activities all can enjoy.
We have added Olde World Artisans craft demonstrations where artisans will each produce an item under the watchful eyes of Fest visitors, then we will auction these items off on Saturday.
Welcome to Logan in the heart of beautiful Hocking Hills and enjoy Ohio’s Most Unique Festival!
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