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HISTORY

Lorain County Metro Parks strives to preserve the history of the parks of Lorain County as well as make it come alive to visitors. Through several historical sites and interactive programs, vistors can step back in time and learn of the history around them. This page gives information on some of the historical sites in the parks and links to local historical societies. The parks boast three historical sites that are available for tours for school groups and the public. A list of upcoming programs can be found on this page as well as annual events.



UPCOMING HISTORY PROGRAMS & EVENTS

MAPLE SUGARING
03/13, Noon-4pm
Carlisle Reservation - Carlisle Visitor Center
Learn about the history and science of the Maple Sugaring process through lecture, hiking, and visiting the sugar shack.

KITES
03/13, 2-3:30pm
French Creek Reservation - French Creek Nature Center
Learn about the history of kites, (they have been used for more than just fun) and then make one. Preregister by 3/10.
Pre-Register by 03/10

MAPLE SUGARING
03/14, Noon-4pm
Carlisle Reservation - Carlisle Visitor Center
about the history and science of the Maple Sugaring process through lecture, hiking, and visiting the sugar shack.

SPRING HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR
03/21, 2-3pm
Schoepfle Garden -
Visit Otto's home and tour the garden looking for early spring flowers. Easy Hiking Level.

All Programs & Events >

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History of Lorain County Metro Parks

► Historical Sites

Burrells Homestead, French Creek Reservation

The Burrell family was one of the first settlers in the Sheffield area. In the years leading up to the Civil War, the Burrell homestead was one of the last stops along the Underground Railroad.

Otto Schoepfle House, Schoepfle Garden

Otto Schoepfle loved gardening. He traveled to Europe to study and learn about different botanical plants, coming home with new ideas for his garden that continued to grow. He donated his beautiful garden, along with his house, to the metro parks in 1969 and maintained the garden until his death in 1992.

Benjamin Bacon Museum, Vermilion River Reserveration

Vermilion River Reservation was the first metro park and was donated by Dorothy Bacon Demuth. Banjamin Bacon settled in the Vermilion area in 1817 and constructed a house as well as a mill along the Vermilion River. The mill was dismantled by 1901.

 

► Historical Societies

► Tours

Tours are offered at the historical sites thoughout the year. A schedule can be found in the program guide, The Arrowhead. You can also call (440) 965-7237 to schedule a tour for your group of 15 or more.

► Volunteer Opportunities

  • Interested in helping at many of the historical sites? Call the park historian, Matt, at (440) 965-7237.

► Annual Events