The Vermilion Historical Society, in partnership with the Vermilion History Museum and the Ritter Public Library, will present a special double feature titled “Oulanie Thepy – The Golden Years of Vermillion: Part 1 and Part 2.” The video narrative explores Vermilion’s early beginnings in 1809 through its golden age of shipbuilding, which concluded in 1879.
“Oulanie Thepy,” translated from a Native American phrase meaning “Vermillion Creek,” reflects the area’s earliest name. The town’s original spelling—with two L’s—remained until 1894.
Both parts of the film will be shown on Tuesday, October 21, at the Ritter Public Library’s lower level. Part 1 will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by an intermission at 6:40 p.m., when cider and donuts will be served. Part 2 will start at 7:00 p.m.
The program traces Vermilion’s development from its Native American roots to its emergence as a thriving village. It highlights the local industries that shaped the community, including shipbuilding, iron manufacturing, and lumbering from the 1840s through the 1860s, and explains why Vermilion’s harbor has retained its scenic charm without industrial remnants.
Glen Cutcher, a member of the Historical Society, adapted Oulanie Thepy from the book by Thomas A. Smith into a video presentation featuring early photographs from the collections of both the Vermilion Historical Society and the Vermilion History Museum.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information, email VermilionHistoricalSociety@gmail.com.
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