In 1840, pioneers in Fort Jennings built a log cabin used as a church and school. Local Catholics held their services in the cabin on Sunday mornings, and the Lutherans held theirs on Sunday afternoons.
Columbus Grove held its first Mid-Winter Fair in January 1913, though in the future the fair was held in December. The 1916 fair brought in 10,000 people over the course of three days. People came to see the animals being shown and watch entertainment, including music and horse-pulling contests. The Mid-Winter Fair was discontinued during WWII.
The Palmer Township Mutual Insurance Company was formed in 1888; at that time, it served four townships. By 1922, it had grown to serve 17 townships and 4 counties. The company’s policies covered loss by fire, lightning, and tornadoes.