One of the outstanding American showmen of the 20th Century, Ted Lewis was born in Circleville to a prominent business family. Stagestruck at an early age, Lewis began performing in cabarets, vaudeville shows, and nightclubs throughout Ohio at age 17, and moved to New York in 1915. Lewis opened his own cabaret in 1918.

With his animated stage persona, his clarinet, and his trademark cane and battered top hat, Lewis enjoyed a wide appeal with his jazz-age audiences. His "Me and My Shadow" act exemplified his popularity during the 1920s, at which time he was the highest-paid entertainer in the business.

As Circleville's most famous native son, Ted Lewis contributed significantly to his hometown. Having performed in the first Pumpkin Show in 1903, Lewis continued to promote Circleville's trademark festival throughout his career. With his wife Adah Becker Lewis, he donated the land for Ted Lewis Park and contributed to local Berger Hospital.

The Ted Lewis Museum, dedicated in 1977, occupies the only remaining building that stood on Circleville's original circle. It interprets the life and career of "The Jazz King" and houses significant collections of early twentieth century American music.