Research
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9 River Street
This building was originally located on Main Street and was moved here many years ago. It started out as a shoe store.
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21 North Franklin
This wonderful stone building was built in 1882 as a varieties store, which was a precursor of a department store.
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1 West Washington Street
This beautiful building was built in 1924 as the Masonic Golden Gate Lodge.
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Dorcus Ann Elizabeth Williams (Old Aunty)
Old Aunty of Chagrin Falls: A Symbol of Freedom and Community One of the most beloved and memorable figures in the history of Chagrin Falls was a woman known simply as “Old Aunty.” Her life story reflects both the hardships of slavery and the welcoming spirit of a community deeply connected to the abolitionist movement…
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Fenkell Gristmill
A Landmark in Chagrin Falls History The Early Ownership of the Property The site of the historic Fenkell Gristmill played an important role in the early development of Chagrin Falls. The property was originally purchased by Seth Handerson in 1833. In 1836, Handerson sold the land to Aaron Bliss, one of the most influential early…
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Bullard Woodenware
An Early Manufacturing Business in Chagrin Falls Establishing the Bullard Woodenware Mill The Bullard Woodenware Mill was founded in 1842 by Curtis Bullard and Cornelius Northrup, becoming one of the earliest manufacturing enterprises in Chagrin Falls. The mill was located on the south side of the Chagrin River at the end of Water Street, where…
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Railroads
The Arrival of the Railroad in Chagrin Falls: Transforming a Growing Community In the late 19th century, railroads were reshaping towns and industries across America. By 1877, more than 79,000 miles of railroad track crisscrossed the United States, connecting communities to markets, resources, and opportunities. Yet despite its thriving industries and growing population, Chagrin Falls,…
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The Interurban
Electric Interurban Railway in Chagrin Falls, Ohio The arrival of the electric interurban railway in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, transformed transportation and commerce throughout the community. Beginning in the 1890s, electric railways offered residents a fast and convenient alternative to traditional steam railroads, connecting Chagrin Falls with Cleveland and communities throughout Northeast Ohio. Plans for an…
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Williams Foundry
Chagrin Falls’ Historic Cast Iron Manufacturing Giant (1834–1892) One of the most important industries in early Chagrin Falls, Ohio, the Williams Foundry helped establish the village as a center of manufacturing and innovation during the nineteenth century.New Headline Williams Foundry A Leading Cast Iron Manufacturer in Chagrin Falls The Williams Foundry was located west of…
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Philomethian Street School
Not too many towns in America can lay claim to having a school in the same location for over 180+ years. Chagrin Falls, a town that loves its traditions and history, can do just that. The first school to be built there was the Asbury Seminary. This school was privately owned, but conducted under the…