It only happens once a year but the History Walk helps bring Ironton’s past to life and offers a blueprint for the city to capitalize on this rich heritage.

The event, put on by the Lawrence County Historical Society, is important to the community for a variety of reasons.

First, it is a fundraiser for the organization that is focused on preserving and celebrating Lawrence County’s past.

Second, it helps educate adults and children alike about many of the colorful characters who have called Ironton home. Many of these men and women, who range from a World War I ace fighter pilot to the first female ironmaster who was counted among the richest women in the world at one time, are laid to rest in Woodland Cemetery.

Last, but certainly not least, it helps instill a sense of community pride because the stories of these extraordinary people and their successes show that anything is possible, even for someone who is from right here in small-town USA.

We applaud the historical society for all its efforts to organize this event year after year. It also wouldn’t be possible without the support of the dozens of volunteers who immerse themselves in the characters they portray and help bring Ironton’s past to life.

We have always said that Ironton’s rich past can be a key asset in building towards its bright future.