Ohio Magazine's Best Hometowns, Hilliard

The central Ohio community of Hilliard formed around the railroad back in 1853.

Visitors can still see the train station when visiting the Historical Village. There's also a red caboose that was restored and recently moved there.

"What's so unique about that is we have different events in there, such as Santa in the Caboose, and the kids love it. They actually get to see what a caboose was like back then and how people lived back then," said Christy Clark, Destination Hilliard Executive Director.

Tim Woodruff was born and raised in Hilliard and is a volunteer at the Historical Village. He actually attended the little church that now sits in the middle of the village.

"When I was a child, the church sat out at the corner of Roberts and Alton Darby, catty-corner from our farm. My parents started me and my brother and sister in that church," said Woodruff.

The village also includes a cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, a museum and even a covered bridge.

The bridge features a restored lattice design that was common in the 18th century, according to Clark.

Not far from the village is Hilliard's Station, the community's historic center where Old Hilliardfest is held every September, reported ONN's Sandra Cole.

Visitors will also find the First Responder's Park Memorial, a tribute to all those who were first on the scene on Sept. 11 and where you can see an actual flagpole from Ground Zero.

Old Hilliard is also home to a 'new' business, Bella Capelli Salon & Day Spa. Owner Karla Larson-Miller fell in love with this historic community and its people.

"The warmness, they will help and come to my rescue if I need it. Hilliard is a great place to have a business," said Larson-Miller.

The residents of Hilliard are proud of their excellent-rated schools, their six-mile Rail to Trail, and 22 city parks.

Hilliard is known as a family-friendly community, featuring the Family Aquatic Center and the Franklin County Fair, but those who live here say the best thing about Hilliard is its small town charm.

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