As the crisp fall air settles in, nothing soothes the soul quite like a hearty bowl of homemade soup. For those seeking warmth and comfort, the Shalersville Historical Society has the perfect solution. On Friday, September 20, they will host a Soup, Salad & Dessert Supper at the Shalersville Town Hall from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The meal, available for both dine-in and take-out, is priced at just $10. This community gathering offers the ideal opportunity to enjoy a warm meal while experiencing the rich history and charm of Shalersville.
The supper coincides with a special event featuring Robert F. (RF) Kroeger, a renowned barn painter and storyteller. Kroeger will be giving a live painting demonstration at 4:00 p.m., followed by a captivating barn talk at 6:00 p.m. His unique blend of artistic talent and narrative skill promises to make the evening a memorable experience. The Shalersville Town Hall, located at the intersection of Routes 44 and 303, is fully handicap accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the event. For more information, you can contact Judy at 330.389.0598.
Robert F. Kroeger is not just a painter; he is a storyteller, preserving the fading history of America’s rural heartland through his art. His journey as an artist began at the age of four, when he mischievously explored his father’s oil paints. Though his early passion for art was undeniable, Kroeger initially pursued a career in dentistry, where he honed his understanding of color and aesthetics.
It wasn’t until the early 2000s, during a stay at a bed and breakfast in Licking County, Ohio, that Kroeger found his true calling. The sight of a weathered, dilapidated barn, affectionately named “Granville Gray,” spoke to him. Its sagging roof and missing boards seemed to whisper, “Paint me.” This pivotal moment sparked the Ohio Barn Project, an endeavor that would take Kroeger across all 88 counties in Ohio, painting and documenting the stories behind these historic structures.
Through his work, Kroeger has raised funds for numerous non-profits, historical societies, and 4-H groups, using his art to give back to the communities he visits. His collection of stories and paintings culminated in the publication of Historic Barns of Ohio in 2021. The book features 135 images, preserving the history of Ohio’s barns for future generations.
Kroeger’s fascination with barns extends beyond Ohio’s borders. His latest book, Round Barns of America, delves into the architectural uniqueness of round barns, capturing the beauty of these rare structures across 32 states. His passion for preserving rural history, combined with his deep understanding of color and structure, makes Robert F. Kroeger a true custodian of America’s barn heritage.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to meet Kroeger in person, watch him work, and listen to the stories that have captivated barn lovers across the country. Whether you come for the art, the food, or the history, this event promises to be a heartwarming and enriching experience for all.
