The Story of
Crystal Fountain Park
Ohio’s first Spiritualist Camp and site of the healing waters of Crystal Fountain — the historic park is full of fascinating history to be uncovered.
Thomas Wentworth
An early American Spiritualist, this pioneer in search of truth came to Northwest Ohio in the 1880s and established the Spiritualist Camp in Sherwood — the first in the state. The auditorium was built in 1911, with supporters paying $2 to have their name engraved into the cement blocks set in the walls.
Healing Waters
"White crystals flowed forth" — and thus began the legend of the healing waters of Crystal Fountain Park. Travelers came by rail from around the country — even the world — for the annual retreat, summer camps, inspirational lectures, and healing services. A sanitarium was built, and one of the first public pools in the state was filled with the healing waters.
Skating Rink, Dance Hall, & Ball Park
In the early 1930s, Crystal Fountain was the first skating rink in Defiance County. Three layers of wood floor were laid above the original pine and dirt floors. You can see the reclaimed flooring in The Wentworth Bar, the stage surround, and other places throughout Crystal Fountain Park. The ballpark hosted major league players, and ballroom dancing was held weekly with live bands. Benefits, parties, and community events thrived.
Crystal Fountain Park Today
Born in Defiance and raised in the Village of Sherwood, brothers Luke and Levi Kuhn are second-generation Sherwood businessmen carrying on the small-town dreams of their mom and dad. Joined by their respective wives, Samantha and Kelsey, the Kuhn Brothers embarked on a new venture in 2021 with the purchase of Crystal Fountain Park and the former Decker’s Chevrolet and International dealership in Downtown Sherwood.
The goal? To restore both venues to their former glory, helping the community flourish.
Within walking distance of one another, these two venues work independently or in conjunction to create a timeless and historic atmosphere for your next event. From a weekend wedding destination replete with rehearsal dinner room, bridal prep areas, multiple ceremony spots, and more — to an elegant climate-controlled venue for your next business event large or small — we hope the Wentworth at Crystal Fountain Park and The East Vine are exactly what you’ve been looking for!
