An Early Settler and Founder of Chagrin Falls

Noah Graves (1800–1866) and his wife, Minerva, are credited with beginning the organized settlement of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Graves recognized the potential of the Chagrin River and its waterfalls as an important source of water power and played a major role in establishing the community that would become the Village of Chagrin Falls.

Noah Graves Arrives in Chagrin Falls

In 1833, Noah Graves discovered the High Falls of the Chagrin River and was impressed by the tremendous potential of the river’s water power. He purchased 210 acres of land for $2,100, an important early investment in the future of Chagrin Falls.

Graves encouraged other families to settle in the area and helped establish the foundation of the growing community. He built his home on the hill overlooking the Village, where he could see the development of the settlement and the river that he believed held such promise for its future.

Developing Industry Along the Chagrin River

Graves was deeply involved in the early industrial development of Chagrin Falls. In 1839, he was one of nine men who incorporated the Chagrin Falls Manufacturing Company. The company was established to manufacture iron, paper, cotton, woolen and silk goods, as well as other products that could benefit from the area’s abundant water power.

Graves himself contributed directly to the community’s early industries. He built a sawmill and a paper mill on property along the Chagrin River that is now part of Riverside Park. These early mills helped establish Chagrin Falls as an important manufacturing center in the region.

Noah Graves and Community Development

Noah Graves’ contributions extended beyond industry. He was actively involved in the civic and cultural development of the growing community.

In 1844, he was an incorporator of the Champion Library, helping provide an important educational and cultural resource for local residents. The following year, in 1845, he was involved in the formation of the township.

Graves later served as a Cuyahoga County Commissioner, giving him an additional role in the development and administration of the area.

The Graves Family Leaves Chagrin Falls

Although Noah Graves played an important role in the early settlement and development of Chagrin Falls, he and his family eventually moved to Indiana. His contributions, however, remained an important part of the community’s early history.

From his purchase of land at the High Falls in 1833 to his involvement in manufacturing, milling, local government, and the Champion Library, Noah Graves helped establish many of the foundations upon which Chagrin Falls was built.