KALIDA

NAME: Kalida COUNTY: Woodson ROADS: 2WD GRID: 1 CLIMATE: Snow in winter/Hot in summer BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round

COMMENTS: The townsite is now on private property, although, upon my visit, I could see no evidence that anyone is living there at present. To get there, take I-54 east from Yates Center until you reach Osage Rd. Turn south on Osage Rd. and proceed for app. 2 miles. When you reach the site, you will see fancy old stone entrances on your right. As you face the house, you will see a castle-like structure off to the right. This is the cellar. REMAINS: Nothing of the original town actually remains.

The town was originally founded on July 14, 1869 by Hale Chellis and named Chellis. In 1870, Mr. Chellis sold the townsite to Thomas Davidson who renamed the town Kalida, which is Greek for "Beautiful". In 1873, Kalida became the county seat, however, the seat was moved to Defiance about a year later and the town of Kalida was moved to Yates Center. Mr. James Davidson built the stone structures on the property in 1893. The property now belongs to the John Weide family. Submitted by: Ron Albin

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