This little town did not start out with such a charming name. In the beginning, it was called Stevenson, Stevensville or Putschtown. The Stevenson name was said to have come from a neighboring farmer by the name of Stephen Yoder. Another story recalls that the son of Stephen Yoder had a wagon and blacksmith shop at the center of town. People often said, “down by Stephen’s son.” This caught on, hence the name. The nickname of Putschtown came from a visitor to the area. When he saw the tiny village, he replied, “Es is usht ein glehne putscha.” It is only a small clump or bunch.
How it finally got the name of Charm was a more practical one. When the town applied to get a post office, the state said that there was already a Stevenson, and they would have to think of another name. (This also happened to Walnut Creek.) There are several stories about how they chose Charm. There is a boring story that there was a list of names, and Charm was chosen from the list. It was mentioned that Joni J. Yoder was present. He was a jeweler. At that time, it was fashionable to attach a charm on a watch chain. Because of that he chose Charm for the name. Another story, my favorite, is that the men went to Columbus to choose the name. They hadn’t decided. The local
official asked them to describe the town. After they did, the official replied, “This must be a charming place, so I’d call it Charm.”
The pictures here show the General Store, the Watchman’s Cottage B&B on the main street, and Keim Lumber.
The original general store was destroyed by a fire in 1978. The General Store that is there today was built in February 1979. It still looks exactly like it did then.
The Watchman’s Cottage B&B is the former watch repair shop. It was remodeled in the early 1990’s
and turned into a bed and breakfast. It still remains a B&B today.
Keim Lumber is worth a trip to Charm to visit. It is not only a lumber and hardware business; it has all kinds of items for your home and lawn. It even has a cafe. In 1908, Mose J. Keim purchased 1 3/4 acres from Henry Hochstetler. This land was the original survey for Keim Lumber. There is more historical information at the store as well as some of the original items.
There are many more businesses and things to see. Come and experience this Charming place!
Information was taken from: Historical Album of Charm, Ohio by Vernon Miller.
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