In the oldest home on the Big Darby Creek resides the area’s first settler. An odd, weathered old man who is said to have once lived with the Mingo. Many have heard his name but few know him personally. This is the story of the first settler in Madison County, Jonathan Alder.

While some historians have included tales of Alder’s life in their collections, none can tell it quite like the man himself. This one-man play features Jonathan, seeing his world and health fade around him, finally deciding to share his story publicly, just as he remembers. He can’t help but get caught up in the episodes, too, reliving the memories with the audience. But, as the night progresses, he begins to fear his years have grown short and that the truth will soon become myth.

By the end of his story, he leaves the audience with a plea and a choice; will they lead a path of hope? Or, will their path lead to despair?

Based on his dictated and family accounts, witness Central Ohio’s earliest settler share what life was like for the rest of us amidst a revolution.