The Little Cities of Black Diamonds Council's Mission

To keep alive the past stories and traditions of the Little Cities of Black Diamonds Region and through our history, culture and environment help enrich the future quality of life in the region.

Little Cities of Black Diamonds Council Purpose Statement

The purpose of the Little Cities of Black Diamonds Council is to promote the story of the Little Cities of Black Diamonds Region in southern Perry, northern Athens, and eastern Hocking Counties of Ohio where the impact of the extractive industries of coal, oil, clay and iron ore have significantly impacted our way of life since the late 1800's.

The Council, made up of individual citizens and representatives of community organizations, governmental bodies, tourism related entities and educational institutions, will plan and carry out events, tours, and educational projects that will promote the historical, cultural, civic and environmental assets of our region.

We believe that the understanding of our region's story and assets by the residents of our region will help citizens and organizations become more actively involved in the regeneration of the Little Cities of Black Diamonds area

We endeavor to share our story and assets with others who live outside this region as well, utilizing a low impact tourism strategy that will economically benefit our region without displacing the positive aspects of our rural culture. (local control and ownership, limited traffic, privacy, etc.)

Finally, through our efforts, we seek to move the image of our region away from one of poverty and decay, toward an image of quality small town and rural living where historical and cultural exploration are common- place and where community and environmental regeneration are a way of life.