Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Cuyahoga Falls has Chicago skinned in a dozen ways. So

proclaimed an early resident of the city whose premier

location on the mighty Cuyahoga River gave the town its name,

its livelihood, and its soul. A small town that realized its big

potential early on, Cuyahoga Falls became a center of industry

and recreation throughout the state of Ohio. Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

explores the town s founding in 1812, its growth into an industrial

powerhouse, and its current focus on downtown urban renewal.

Within the boundaries of their original two-mile square

settlement, the lives of the early citizens of Cuyahoga Falls were

inextricably intertwined with the majestic river. They recognized

and harnessed its tremendous potential as it tumbled over a series

of falls. Local economies flourished as paper, flour, wool, stone, and

wood were milled using the immense force of the water, estimated

to contain the power of 3,460 horses. Local inhabitants and visitors

alike were drawn to nearby Silver Lake to enjoy scenic steamboat

cruises, fish the waters, ride the roller coaster, and enjoy the graceful

parks that lined its shores."