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River Ridge Leather Company occupies the beautifully restored James LeRetilley Building. You can purchase quality leather goods that are hand-crafted using traditional tools and techniques by the owner himself.
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James LeRetilley Building - c.1847: James LeRetilley Sr. purchased this building in 1849, but died only 1 year later. LeRetilley moved to Caldersburgh (later changed to Roscoe) in 1825 from Muskingum County and opened a general store with William Wood. On August 2, 1826, he was appointed as the first postmaster in Caldersburgh.
Hours of Operation
Spring and Summer: Daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Fall: Tuesday - Sunday 10a.m. - 5p.m.
Winter: Thursday - Sunday 10a.m. - 5p.m.
What Do Our Visitors Say?
What a special place! Start at the visitor center, watch the film about canals and the village. Next get your ticket for the living history exhibits - veterans/active servicemen are free and there are discounts for students, seniors and AAA members. With the ticket, you wear a wristband and can enter the buildings with a living history storyteller. We visited them all, and learned something at every stop. The weaver did a fantastic job explaining the craft and it was interesting to see a blacksmith in action. Print shop, broom maker, schoolhouse and Dr office - all were staffed and the guide shared stories of the people who lived there. Nestled in with the exhibits are some neat shops for antiques, Ohio made items and collectibles. Be sure to catch the canal boat ride - it requires an extra fee, and only runs certain times/days. The boat has a guide, and ours was fantastic! We learned so much about canals and their part in the history of Ohio. This place is a family friendly trip, something all ages can enjoy.