Published: 6/29/2013 - Updated: 23 hours ago

BY JANET ROMAKER BLADE STAFF WRITER

LIBERTY CENTER, Ohio The spirit of Liberty flaps red, white, and blue from flagpoles in this Henry County community where the personality of people and places proudly proclaims, Hometown America.

There is everything you need right here in Liberty, long-time village resident Louisa Strock said.

Cut your finger fixing farm equipment? Theres a doctor in town. Chip a tooth? Theres a dentist. Check out books at the library. Order a pizza. Cash checks at a bank. Consult with an attorney. Get gas and groceries at local stores. Get religion. A sign at a local church proclaims it is prayer conditioned. Grain moves at the local elevator near the restored Wabash Depot, a community project that has taken blood, sweat, and years.

At 97, Mrs. Strock is a striking example of the spirit of Liberty. Her energy, enthusiasm, and extensive recollections of village life can make your head spin and your heart sing. She talks about her childhood fascination with the clattering key of the depot telegraph. Of her excitement while awaiting arrival of her new baby doll via a train from Toledo. Of her beloved Papa, John S. Mires, editor and publisher of the Liberty Press for nearly 45 years.

Today, the restored depot on Wabash Street will be a focal point during Liberty Centers Founders Day. It would take 150 candles to mark the towns birthday. But never mind a cake. An old-fashioned, Hi neighbor ice cream social, topped off with a sing-a-long, will be the celebrations centerpiece, beginning at 5 p.m. Activities on tap include walking tours of the historic town and live entertainment.

That Liberty Center, population about 1,000, has not only survived but thrived pays tribute to what Mrs. Strock calls determination, perseverance, cooperation, and leadership.

Roger Fisher, 65, who grew up in the village and lived in big cities for years, retired and returned to Liberty.

Ive lived all over and I knew when I retired, I would go back to Liberty. For me, its home, said Mr. Fisher, planner-coordinator for sesquicentennial activities, including monthly summer salutes to the village.

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Liberty Center ready to revel