Historical Society celebrates 50th year of Highland House Museum
By Pamela Nickell
H.C. Historical Society
This is the fifth article in a series from the Highland County Historical Society featuring members of the HCHS Hall of Fame and in recognition of the Highland House Museum’s 50th Anniversary.
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Darrell R. Hottle
(1918-1989)
Darrell Rizer Hottle was a Highland County prosecuting attorney and local judge for more than 35 years.
Judge Hottle grew up on a farm on Danville Pike. He lost his right arm in a farming accident at age 14. Undaunted, he was a leader in high school and lettered in football.
Judge Hottle received his bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University, then enrolled at Western Reserve University to complete his law studies.
In 1947, he started his law practice in the office of Robert McMullen, Sr. He was elected prosecuting attorney, and in 1955, he became judge of
Common Pleas Court, where he presided for 34 years. He also served as visiting judge in 27 other Ohio counties.
Judge Hottle served his church as lay preacher. He was a longtime leader in the Boy Scouts of America, attaining the high honor of Silver Beaver. He was a 33rd-Degree Mason and a Paul Harris Fellow.