Pennsylvanian Conrad Darr founded Darrtown 200 years ago in 1814. The two selling points for his new town were the quality of the land and its' economically strategic location, situated roughly 35 miles from Cincinnati, Dayton and Richmond. He described the land as "healthful" with rich soil, over 50 "never-failing" natural springs, and close proximity to an excellent spot for a grist mill on Four Mile creek. His brother Abraham became the town's first resident and built a tavern and provisions store called The Hitching Post, which catered to the drovers who regularly passed through town leading large herds of pigs, sheep and cattle to slaughter in Cincinnati. The abundance of water and flat land made Darrtown a perfect stop for the drovers on their long journeys.
As the days of the drovers passed and it became apparent that nearby Hamilton was going to be all that Darrtown might have been, The Hitching Post continued on as a popular tavern/social hub where the community could meet with friends and learn the news of the day. It is one of Ohio's oldest taverns, and the original structure built by Abraham Darr still stands just to the north of GZ. There have been many owners of The Hitching Post, but perhaps none stand out like Earl "Red" Huber. He owned and operated the tavern from 1949 to 1982, and was by all accounts a unique and colorful individual. It is a testament to his special character, that thirty years after his death I could see clearly in my research for this event, that he appealed to and was beloved by all types of people. Walter "Smoky" Alston, Miami frat boys, Darrtown natives, and passers through all enjoyed a stop to see "Red" at The Hitching Post.
