The Mystery Man of Lima, Ohio

Event Name: The Mystery Man of Lima, Ohio
Location: Bluffton Public Library
Event Type: Community Event
Dates: 06-05-2008 to 06-05-2008
Time: 6:30 pm
Notes:
DISCOVER THE MYSTERY MAN OF LIMA, OHIO At 6:30 pm on Thursday, June 5th, Joe Dunkle of the Allen County Museum will be on hand at the Bluffton Public Library to describe an influential and unusual citizen of Lima, Ohio. The “mystery man” we are speaking of is James Grosjean, who gives new meaning to the phrase, “a jack of all trades.” Being an entrepreneur, shoe maker, undertaker and taxidermist, Grosjean had an unusual combination of skills that would ultimately allow him to become best known for his hobby of creating animated displays. The first exhibit he created featured exotic birds, which was a “…perfectly constructed miniature Ferris wheel upon which is mounted many of the rarest and most beautiful specimens of birds that could be secured…” according to the Lima Times-Democrat on December 22, 1897. To this day no one knows how Grosjean collected all of these birds, or why he included a miniature Ferris wheel in the display. Perhaps it is this air of mystery that keeps people coming back to the Allen County Museum where his century-old exhibits, including an albino collection and Noah’s Ark model, are still on display and in working order. Dunkle explains his appeal of this interesting person, “After giving several tours, I became fascinated with Mr. Grosjean. Talking about him with other tour groups, I found myself getting more and more involved with his life's history.” Grosjean’s displays have been at the museum since its inception, and will likely continue to be there for many years to come. The man behind these exhibits is equally interesting, however, and according to Mr. Dunkle, “I think our guests at the Bluffton Public Library on June 5th will be pleasantly surprised with the story of Mr. Grosjean's life and amazing accomplishments.” Those interested in attending this free program are asked to pre-register at the library’s circulation desk or by calling 419-358-5016.