By Erica Solvig
The Cincinnati Enquirer

DEERFIELD TWP. - In 1803, this area of Warren County was populated by more deer than people.

Today, Deerfield Township is home to 26,000 residents, more than 900 businesses and a hub of activity.

Thursday kicked off the township's yearlong bicentennial celebration.

Local officials unveiled the township's bicentennial logo to a small crowd during an afternoon ceremony at the former Football Hall of Fame building on Kings Island Drive.

The logo includes a blue and red ribbon over the words, "Deerfield Township Bicentennial Celebrating 200 Years of Grassroots Government." The logo is displayed on the township sign in Kings Mills and soon will be on township signs throughout Deerfield.

"I think Deerfield has been the gateway to Warren County," township Trustee Bill Morand said during the logo presentation. "I hope that this year we can dig in into the history."

The township is scheduling events through the year to observe its 200th birthday:

Feb. 21 - Business leaders will be encouraged to participate in the yearlong celebration at a sponsors' event at the Snyder House.

March - An essay contest will be announced for high school students.

April 27 - A community art show will be held at Nantucket Apartments on Montgomery Road.

May 26 - A memorial garden will be dedicated at Cottell Park.

June 3 - The winners of the high school essay content will be announced.

July 4th weekend - The township is planning on a bicentennial bash.

Aug. 2 - Families are invited to a night out, complete with outdoor movie and picnic, at the Snyder House and Cottell Park.

Sept. 21 - The Deerfield Days celebration will incorporate the county's bicentennial bell.

Oct. 26 - Fall Fest is scheduled.

November - Township officials and residents will have a bicentennial birthday party, with birthday cakes at locations throughout the township.

Dec. 7 - The annual Holidays in Deerfield will be held at Snyder House.

E-mail esolvig@enquirer.com