Through their contributions to politics, the arts, business, science, medicine and much more, Worthington's residents have achieved big things!
Before he won an Oscar, J.K. Simmons acted in the Worthington High School (WHS) drama department, attending school there from 1970-72. Other famous WHS grads include Emmy-award-winning broadcaster Dana Tyler, and Eisner-award-winning cartoonist Jeff Smith, creator of the "Bone" series.
After women gained the right to vote in 1920, Maude Mabra was the first woman in Worthington to cast her ballot, getting to the polls that day at 5 am. Salmon Chase, who served as the sixth justice of the Supreme Court, lived in Worthington during his early years, and Warren G. Harding gave the kickoff speech to his presidential campaign at the Harding Hospital in Worthington on August 11, 1920.
Another achievement might be more unexpected but no less notable: throughout the mid-20th century, Bernice Warner Letson ran a hugely profitable international business from the backyard of her South Street home, selling earthworm castings to gardeners. She lectured across the country and was featured in numerous gardening and mainstream publications.
The contributions of Worthington residents don't stop there--learn more about their wide-ranging achievements below.
