Mac-A-Cheek Foundation for the Humanities

​Nestled in the scenic Mac-A-Cheek Valley, the Mac-A-Cheek Foundation for the Humanities (MFH) is a nonprofit dedicated to education, preservation, and cultural enrichment. Operating at the historic Piatt Castle Mac-A-Cheek, the foundation provides interactive educational programs while fostering a deeper understanding of history, philosophy, literature, and the arts.

Founded in 1997, MFH was created to enhance the educational experiences at Piatt Castle, which had been welcoming visitors for over 85 years before the foundation’s inception. The foundation’s mission is to connect life stories, architecture, and the natural environment in ways that engage learners of all ages and backgrounds.

“Our goal is to use the humanities to better understand ourselves and others,” said Kip Lourens, MFH Board President. “We preserve the past to enrich the future.”

MFH works closely with local businesses and organizations in Logan County, hiring local contractors and offering paid internships and volunteer opportunities. The foundation is also actively involved with the Logan County Visitors Bureau and the West Liberty Business Association, helping to drive tourism and economic growth. Visitors from across Ohio, 25+ states, and even internationally are drawn to Logan County each year thanks to the foundation’s work.

A highlight of 2024 was hosting hundreds of visitors for the total solar eclipse in April. The once-in-a-lifetime event featured educational activities in partnership with the Cincinnati Observatory, offering a unique and immersive experience for guests.

Another major milestone is the recent AM250-OH grant award, supporting the "From Mekoche to Mac-A-Cheek: Identity and Place" project. This initiative will revamp Ohio History exhibits and programming, with a launch event on June 29 during the 19th Century Independence Day Celebration.

Looking ahead, MFH has ambitious goals, including hiring its first executive director to help expand educational programs and restore historic structures on the property. Future plans also include:

• A performance pavilion for community events
• An agricultural exhibit highlighting the site’s farming history
• An indoor discovery center for interactive learning
• Expanded nature trails and outdoor programming

MFH thrives on community support, and there are many ways to get involved:

• Volunteer at events and programs
• Attend educational tours and free outdoor events
• Support fundraising initiatives to preserve and expand historical exhibits
• Spread the word about this local treasure

​For more information on programs, events, or how to contribute, visit www.piattcastle.org.