SCHS Digital 6 18 2021

JUNE 2021 | VOL 12 ISSUE 1 ‘Christmas in July’ – Family Fun Day at SCHS 2 President’s Report; The Summit County Historical Society Board and Staff celebrates its 97th anniversary with its Family Fun Day on July 10 from noon to 4 3 Chair Message; p.m. at the Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, Calendar of Events 550 Copley Road, Akron. 4 Class of Summer 2021; It will be a special celebration – a Christmas Parties with the Sheep in July – since so many missed the holiday in 2020 because of COVID. Special Insert: Annual Report 2020 The sheep (see page 4 to read about the breed This special, limited edition 2021 holiday ornament 5 Mutton Hill Book Club; of sheep that will be joining the Society this features a working dog and a little lamb posed WHP Woman of the Year summer), the “boys” Rudy, Lincoln, Luke and outside the Perkins Stone Mansion. The ornament 6 Farm Fridays Back Owen, and Shepherdess Edie Steiner will all was designed and created by Claudia Zeber-Martell 7 Donors be back for free herding demonstrations and and Michael Martell. The couple are donating the 8 Strawberry Season 1900 more. As a special treat, the “boys” will be profits from the sales of the ornament to the Society joined by their dog friend, Dyna, as she joins to support the group’s educational programs. The the “pack” as a volunteer with her humans ornament only costs $20. To buy an ornament, stop by Emily, Aaron and Gideon. the Gift Shop during Family Fun Day or just order it by calling Society offices at 330-535-1120. The orna- The educational programming, with the ments are also available at Zeber-Martell Gallery and sheep, the expanded sheep dog “pack” as well Clay Studio on Furnace St., in Akron. as Shepherdess Edie Steiner, is made possible by the Modiho Mutton Hill Fund at the Akron – Continued on page 6 Community Foundation. It will be a fun-filled afternoon of outdoor CommUNITY Talk Back Set for Juneteenth Symposium Celebrate Juneteenth with the Summit leaders will provide their perspectives on County Historical Society’s Community this important topic. Dr. David Nelson, Talk Back under the tent on the grounds of senior pastor of the New Hope Baptist the Perkins Stone Mansion, 550 Copley Road, Church and Board member of the Society, Akron, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The event is free will be the moderator. The panelists will be: and open to the public. • Dr. Leslie Parker Barnes, founder and ar- The theme of the Community Talk Back is tistic director of YEPAW (Youth Excellence Equality and Equity and a panel of Akron Performing Arts Workshop); – Continued on page 7 www.summithistory.org 1

2021 Summit County A Message from the President & CEO Historical Society Board of Directors By Leianne Neff Heppner OFFICERS Goodbye & Hello Christopher Esker has more than 35 years Thomas Clark, Chair experience in the legal field. He graduated At our recent annual from the University of Akron with an under- Clark, Guilliam, Bertsch meeting, Board graduate degree in English and a Juris Doc- Elizabeth Campbell, Vice Chair Chair Tom Clark and torate at the School of Law. As a lawyer, he the Society member- has worked in the Court of Appeals, Common Pearl Coffee ship said thank you to Dave Lieberth and Pleas and Prosecuting Attorney’s office. He Brad Schoenfelt, Treasurer Gary Hartman for their dedication over the currently practices law at Roderick Linton past eight years as Board directors. The first Belfance, LLP in Akron. He specializes in Ferro Corp project that Gary and Dave tackled was host- mediation, arbitration, bench trial, jury trial ing a strategic planning session for Board and appellate advocacy, as well as municipal DIRECTORS and staff members. Under Dave’s leadership finance, commercial leases and business Theresa S. Beyerle, Ph.D., as chair, this plan was quickly completed transitions, real estate and zoning litigation. and broad new initiatives were set as goals: Christopher has a passion for history and Community Volunteer returning sheep to Mutton Hill and restoring architecture as a Facebook administrator for Theresa Boware, Akron-Summit the John Brown House. Akron, Ohio, Historical Buildings and as a trustee of the Summit County Farm Bureau County Public Library Appropriately, their gifts from the Society for 25 years. He has served on numerous Carrie Burrier, Akron-Summit were the prototypes of new ornaments fea- non-profit boards and looks forward to turing a working dog and sheep in front of joining the Society. County Public Library the Perkins Stone Mansion by Zeber-Martell. Keith Collett, retired Goodyear Tire Claudia Zeber-Martell and Michael Martell “Go big or go home,” is a quote that Emma love dogs and the Mutton Hill programming & Rubber Company so they are donating the profits from the Lieberth Osborn has been familiar with all Kitty Endres, Ph.D., Professor Emerita, sales of this special 2021 ornament to the Society to assist with continued educational her life. Currently, Emma is the director of The University of Akron opportunities (see the Christmas in July Christopher Esker, Roderick article on p. 1). Policy and Advocacy Linton Belfance LLP While we are sad to see Gary and Dave go, for the United Way Karen Hackenberry, retired they won’t be far. Gary has agreed to contin- ue on the development committee, working of Summit County. nonprofit CEO with its chair Karen Hackenberry where Bob Hutchison, retired Kentucky he has some great ideas. One that you’ll be She returned to her reading about more is regarding the sheep McDonald’s - attention grandparents (see p.4). Dave will hometown of Akron Deborah Loughborough, Twin Oaks Realty return to his position as Director Emeritus, GinaKaye Maddox, Leadership Akron which he had been serving prior to this third in 2018 after a 10- Joshua Moore, G. Stephens Inc. term on the board and his status as a 50+ Adam Motter, Akron Public Schools year member of the Society. year career in public Woodrow Nash, Woodrow Nash Galleries Rev. Dr. David Nelson, New Hope The Society welcomed two new Board direc- Emma Osborn is a new administration in tors: one is an experienced attorney with a Board member. Washington, D.C. Baptist Church love of the landscape and its culture, Chris- where she earned Emma Lieberth Osborn, United Way topher Esker, and the other is following in her Dad’s footsteps, Emma Lieberth Osborn, a Master’s degree in Public Administration of Summit County while leading a path of her own. Jason Petrik, Energy Harbor from George Mason University. Emma has Chas Schreckenberger, Braun & Steidl also worked for the National League of Architects a studio of PRIME AE Tim Tober, Tober Building Company Cities, the State Municipal League Programs Jeff Walters, CBIZ Patrick Weschler, Buckingham, Doolittle and Strategic Partnerships and the Brady & Burroughs Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. She is a Virginia Wojno-Forney, board member at Akron Rural Cemetery and Community Volunteer the Akron Roundtable; she volunteers with STAFF President & CEO organizations supporting women with breast Leianne Neff Heppner Membership & cancer, a cause that has special significance 4th Grade Outreach Mary Conley since her sister Kate Lieberth Lytton died of Accountant & Gift Shop Manager Denise Lundell the disease in 2018. Educational Outreach Reva Golden Remember When Outreach Dave Gates Janet McCaulley Curatorial Assistant Renee Hennemann Facilities Christopher Steiner Portage Trail Review Editors Kitty Endres - volunteer Phone: 330.535.1120 Fax: 330.535.0250 Email: [email protected] 2 Portage Trail Review

A Message from the Chair Calendar of Events By Tom Clark June John Brown House June 21: Mutton Hill Monday, noon, Perkins Stone We are in the home stretch! Mansion grounds, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. Phase Three of our renovation of the John June 21: The Wright Sister, Mutton Hill Book Club, 6:30 Brown House “accessible to all” is now within to 7:30 p.m. under the tent, Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, $100,000 of being fully funded. What a gift and and via zoom, free and open to the public, see p. 5 for the responsibility we have at the Summit County Historical Society. story. June 25: Farm Chores, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., We own the home of one of the true heroes and freedom fighters Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to middle school, of American History. Thanks to the generosity of government, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. individual and foundation support, the first two phases have been completed. Currently we are in phase three, “accessible to all” where July we want to make this important American landmark a place that can be shared by all persons of all abilities. If you have seen the activity July 2: Independence Day, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 at the house, you’ve noticed the improved parking, ramps and a.m., Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to middle entrances. school, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. July 7: Working Dog Wednesday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., We now sit less than $100,000 away from completing this phase Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, bring your chairs, free and of the project. While we have had strong support by government, open to the public. Join Edie and the “boys,” shepherding foundations and individuals, we have seen little local business/ demo. corporate support. July 9: Native American History, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to We are looking for approximately 20 local corporations that are middle school, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. willing to put their support behind this project with a gift of $5,000 July 16: Portage Path, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., or more. These corporations will be prominently recognized with Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to middle school, signage – at the John Brown House, in Society publications and on bring your chairs, free and open to the public. the Society website. What a great opportunity for our local compa- July 19: Mutton Hill Monday, noon, Perkins Stone nies to support and be recognized for their support of this symbol of Mansion groups, bring your chairs, free and open to the American freedom. public. Join Edie and the boys for a sheep demo. July 23: Pioneer Life, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., Can you help us find the support we need in our local business Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to middle school, community? If your company would be interested, or you have a bring your chairs, free and open to the public. recommendation for who we should approach, please give us a call July 30: Perkins Family, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 at the Society office (330-535-1220). We will take it from there. a.m., Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to middle school, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. Wishing you a wonderful summer… Donate to our endowment at Akron Community Foundation: August Akroncf.org/give/SummitHistoricalSocietyFund Aug. 4: Working Dog Wednesday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. Aug. 6: Canal History, Farm Friday, 10:30 to 11:45 p.m. Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, preschool to middle school, bring your chairs, free and open to the public. 550 Copley Road Akron, Ohio 44320 | P330.535.1120 | F330.535.0250 3

Class of Summer 2021: Katahdins Another Chapter in Society’s Sheep Story Meet the Society’s Katahdin sheep. Ten little “hair” lambs, born between Feb. 25 and March 15, 2021 on the Silver Meadows Farm in Diamond, Ohio. Ten little boys, ready to enjoy the Society’s pastures, the sheep dogs, Shepherdess Edie Steiner – and all the visitors this summer. This represents the second year that the Katahdins have The class of 2021 are 10 little Katahdin lambs from Silver Meadows called the Society home. Last year, at height of the Farm in Diamond, Ohio. pandemic, Katahdins made their Akron debut, said President and CEO Leianne Neff Heppner. It was just for its hardiness, adaptability, low maintenance and another chapter in the Society’s sheep history. parasite resistance. They are also known for their gentle dispositions. The Katahdins did not even exist back in John Brown’s day. They developed as a distinct breed in the U.S. in the The Society’s 10 Katahdin lambs come from Silver early 1970s on Michael Piel’s farm in Maine. Meadows Farm of Diamond, Ohio. According to Scott Meyer, who runs the farm and Silver Lake Florist with Back in the 1950s, Piel had read about the West African wife Betsy, the 10 lambs are castrated males. The farm, “hair” sheep in National Geographic Magazine. He which specializes in Katahdin sheep, had 78 lambs this eventually made contact with the U.S. Agricultural spring and the most colorful ones came to the Society. Service in St. Croix, the U.S. Virgin Islands, where the agency was working with African hair sheep. Piel then The Katahdin sheep are part of the Society’s plan to arranged to bring three African hair sheep to his farm. diversify the breeds staying during the summer. Neff Heppner explained, “Edie Steiner, Society volunteer And the rest is history…. shepherdess, has a goal of introducing a variety of sheep breeds through our Mutton Hill programming showing After about 20 years of breeding, Piel was satisfied with the diversity of stock.” But, ultimately, the Society hopes the results, a “meat sheep that did not require shear- to acquire Merino “wool” sheep for the Summer pro- ing.” He named the breed Katahdin, after Mt. Katahdin, gram, she said. Col Simon Perkins originally raised the highest peak in Maine, according to the Katahdin Merino-Saxony sheep. Hair Sheep International organization. Since then, the breed has gained popularity in the U.S. Name a Sheep, Have a Party Surprise a friend or a relative with a special party with the ornaments designed by Zeber-Martell Studios. The party Society’s sheep this summer on the Perkins Stone Mansion package also comes with a “family portrait” that includes the grounds, 550 Copley Road, Akron. “named” lamb. For the first time, the Society is offering an opportunity for 10 Retiring Board member Gary Hartman thought this would be lucky individuals to host a private party with the Katahdin an ideal gift for grandparents who want to host a special sheep – and naming rights for one of the little lambs. birthday “surprise” for their grandchild. The party package, available for $300, also includes a private To reserve a “lamb” to name and a date, call Society’s offices at herding demonstration, featuring all 10 of the Katahdin sheep, 330-535-1120 or email Society President and CEO Leianne Neff the “boys” – Owen, Lincoln, Luke and Rudy—and Society Heppner at [email protected]. Shepherdess Edie Steiner, a one-hour party under the Society’s tent for up to 20 and two special limited edition Christmas tree Don’t delay, there are only 10 little lambs this year – and lots of doting grandparents! 4 THE SUMMIT COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AKRON, OHIO

Tales of History, Haunting & Mystery Mutton Hill Book Club is Back although pandemic restrictions may Popular volunteer and avid reader Janet Wilcox is force the club to back with three great books to share with the 2021 meet online. To Mutton Hill Book Club. register for this free event, go to The festivities begin on June 21 with Patty Dann’s The eventbrite.com. Wright Sister: A Novel. The book offers a perspective of Katharine Wright, sister of inventors Orville and Wilbur The book club ends Wright, pioneers of flight. As a special attraction, the the year with the executive director of the International Women’s Air and New York Times’ Space Museum Sara Fisher will “zoom” in for special best seller, The comments, Wilcox said. Mystery of Mrs. Christie by Marie The event will be offered both “live” and via zoom, said Benedict. The story attempts Wilcox. Those, who attend the event “live” under the to solve Agatha Christie’s still tent on the Perkins Stone Mansion grounds, 550 Copley mysterious 11-day disappear- Road, Akron, will be able to see a special exhibit from ance in 1926. Mark your the women’s air museum. This free event takes place calendars for Monday, Dec. 21, Monday, June 21, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. To register at 6:30 p.m. and stay tuned for for the event, go to eventbrite.com. additional details. The next book, Beloved, Toni Morrison’s breakout novel, All the books are available Janet Wilcox is set in Cincinnati after the Civil War and deals with previous slaves living in a haunted house. The book club through the Akron-Summit is set to meet in Perkins Stone Mansion, purported to be a haunted house, on Monday, Oct. 18, at 6:30 p.m., County Public Library and Wilcox said that you need not read the book to participate in the events. 2021 Woman of the Year Awards, Pandemic Heroines The zoom presentation of the Women’s History Project’s Woman of the Year Awards in April didn’t let the audience see the winners receive their awards. The Society would like to remedy the situation now. Here are just a few of this year’s Heroines of the Pandemic with their awards. Congratulations again to the Woman of the Year Award winners. Society President & CEO Leianne Nurse Manager Christy Nealie D’Abate poses Summit County Health Neff Heppner presents the Woman Rohm was hard at work with her award in her Administrator Donna of the Year Award to Lisa Aurillo of at Cleveland Clinic Akron office at Western Reserve Skoda shows off Akron Children’s Hospital. General Hospital when Hospital. her award. she received her award. 550 Copley Road Akron, Ohio 44320 | P330.535.1120 | F330.535.0250 5

– Continued from page 1 Family Fun Day at SCHS games, arts, music – and enjoying your friends here at the Summit County Historical Society, Society President and CEO Leianne Neff Heppner promised. Tours of the historical buildings – the Perkins Stone Mansion and the John Brown House – will be available and free, although masks will be required in the buildings and social distancing will be followed inside. The Society wants to keep all its friends safe! The Gift Shop will also be open in case friends might The Collins sleigh made in Akron was restored in 2019 by Belinda want to purchase a souvenir or a membership to the Palmiter of Michigan and donated to the Society in 2021. Society. A new, special ornament designed by Zeber-Mar- tell Studios will also be available at the Gift Shop. Profits Family Fun Day – it’s always a good time and this year it of the sale benefit Mutton Hill programming for sheep will be a Christmas in July. and dogs. (Those who wish to pre-order their holiday ornament should call the Society now at 330-535-1120.) Farm Fridays Returns Dave Gates, Reva Golden and Anna Popa lead a Farm Friday in June. The Step2 tables and benches are already in use at the Farm Fridays New Topics Planned at the Society. Farm Fridays are always special times on the Perkins Stone Mansion grounds. Youngsters – preschool to middle school – love the activities that Dave Gates and Reva Golden, Educational Outreach staff, and Anna Popa, preschool, plan. Farm Fridays are 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. and everything is free and open to the public. This year the pair have come up with new topics to explore with lots of fun new activities. Parents are asked to bring chairs; but this year, thanks to the generosity of Step2 of Streetsboro, the preschool children will be doing their activities on Farmhouse Tables and Benches. Here are just some of the activities planned on Fridays this summer. • June 25: Farm Chores; • July 2: Independence Day; • July 9: Native American History; • July 16: Portage Path; • July 23: Pioneer Life; • July 30: The Perkins Family; • August 6: Canal History. 6 THE SUMMIT COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AKRON, OHIO

2021 Donations – Continued from page 1 The Summit County Historical Society depends on the generosity of its donors. This year the Society wishes to acknowledge the following ‘CommUNITY Talk Back’ individuals, corporations, foundations and government agencies who supported the educational programs of the Society. • Carla Chapman, chief diversity officer of Akron Public Schools; Thank you to all the following: • Pastor Robert DeJournett, vice president of Opportunity and Memorials Inclusion at the Greater Akron Chamber and pastor of St. Ashworth Temple C.O.G.I.C.; In Memory of Mary Laub Babcox Betty Brainard Sandwick • Dr. Jennifer Ross, director of Diversity and Strategic Initiatives for In Memory of Carol Eubank Akron Urban League, and Sylvia Johnson Leianne Neff Heppner • Pastor Kevin Rushing, of the United Baptist Church. In Memory of Bill & Mary Jane Hutchison Bob Hutchison After the panel, there will be a community picnic at 11 a.m., which is In Memory of Billy James Hutchison also free and open to the public but reservations are required through Bob Hutchison eventbrite.com. The lunch will be provided by A Taste of Fine Dining; In Memory of John Wilkinson there will also be tastings by Nicole’s Restaurant and Ire Jamaican Tom Hutchison Kitchen. Bob Hutchison Leianne Neff Heppner At 11:30 and 12:30, Reva Golden, actor, playwright and Society Lydia Bozeman educational outreach staff member, will present her latest work, In Honor of Connor Hutchison “Life of Captain John Brown.” That production will feature Golden as Bob Hutchison Harriet Tubman, actor Deb Lemire as narrator, actor Dennis Runkle In Honor of Herb & Cheryl Hutchison as John Brown and actor/educator Corin B. Self as Frederick Douglass. Bob Hutchison In Honor of Ed & Pam Hutchison Society President and CEO Leianne Neff Heppner is looking forward Bob Hutchison to the event, In Honor of Tom Hutchison Bob Hutchison “The Society is grateful to have the In Honor of Lora Suttles opportunity to bring community Bob Hutchison members together for questions and answers from local leaders while Donations gathering to support each other on Freedom Day. Thank you to Reva Terry & Darla Curtis Golden, Society staff member, for John Dalton creating our Community Talk Backs Todd Fulmer and organizing the foundation for Dave Gates the Juneteenth Symposium.” Kathryn Hurlburt Bob Hutchison & Lora Suttles This day of celebration is underwritten, in part, by a grant from the Dr. Robert Kroeger Akron Community Foundation “On the Table” program. Michael & Hannah Paulin Ronald & Jean Powell Dave Szalay Dave Szucs John Wilkinson Virginia Wojno-Forney Foundations/Grants Akron Community Foundation Preservation of the Abolitionist Movement The Bruce & Erica Greer Family Foundation Energy Harbor Corporation Corporations Step2, Streetsboro Women’s History Project Sponorships & Donations SummaHealth - presenting sponsor Louise Kuhns Harvey Kitty Endres, Ph.D. Leianne Neff Heppner Akron Children’s Hospital Jenn Kidd County Executive Ilene Shapiro’s Elbridge Locklear Dept. of Job & Family Service Terry Lueck Western Reserve Hospital Elizabeth Brainard Sandwick Cleveland Clinic Akron General Ted Sikora Sophie Albrecht Carrie Snyder Rosemary Reymann Sarah Vrandenburg Marie Covington Marisa Warrix Blake Binion-Holliday Becky Woodruff www.summithistory.org 7

Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID Akron, Ohio Permit #94 550 Copley Road Akron, Ohio 44320 Strawberry Season…1900 Whether it’s 2021 or 1900, when this photo was taken, there is nothing better than strawberry season in Summit County. The strawberries were sweet and tasty back then (and today). Whether they are picked in your backyard, purchased at a farmer’s market or picked at a neighboring farm, June in Summit County means strawberries – and strawberry ice cream, strawberry-rhubarb pie, strawberry cobbler, strawberry jam. Photo is from the Summit County Historical Society Collection at the Akron-Summit County Public Library Special Collections. 8 Portage Trail Review

Summit County Historical Society 550 Copley Road Akron, Ohio 44320 2020 Annual Report

Friends, June 2021 We are grateful to be able to gather after a historic year! John Brown’s legacy of equality Surviving 2020 as a nonprofit organization, your Society: As our community and the nation grieved this summer over • Transitioned programming to online and outside; racial injustices, Tom Clark, board chair, reached out to the full Society board to revive an important committee of the past. • Collected artifacts to reflect the COVID-19 pandemic; The John Brown Task Force, chaired by GinaKaye Maddox, held its first program, Juneteenth Freedom Day at the John Brown • Redeveloped the John Brown Institute Task Force; and House followed by a new program called Community Talk Back. Developed by staff member Reva Golden, Community Talk Backs • Resumed work at the John Brown House for Phase III allow the public access to local leaders to answer questions “Accessible to All.” about their concerns – safety, health, equality and equity. The show must go on Society Statement – June 2021 Without the ability to host programming in person, the Society The Mission of the Summit County Historical Society is to moved to social media posts on Facebook featuring historic preserve and interpret the history of Summit County and Akron, birthdays, often written by Society volunteer Al McCaulley, and to educate regional communities about the people and artifacts of the day and updates about the pandemic. events that have shaped our rich history. Edie Steiner, Society volunteer shepherdess and Akron Public History is being made every minute. We fulfill our Mission by Schools music therapist, approached the Society to collaborate maintaining a collection of meaningful artifacts, and by recording for an online program for APS students. She and Leianne the events of the day and the stories of people so that future produced episodes with assistance from Christopher Steiner on citizens can interpret the truth of today. video, Gina McFarren on dog duty, Dave Gates and Buff Darkow writing some segments and Mary Conley presenting how a boat Since the Society acquired the John Brown House in 1943, a climbs a hill. The Ohio Local History Alliance awarded “Artifacts significant part of our focus has reflected the famed abolitionist’s with Edie” and its crew with an outstanding programming award. pursuits of social liberty and equality for all. Historians that have Almost 60 videos were produced during the pandemic year! defined his legacy include the view that he was the first United States citizen committed to absolute racial equality. Collections turned local As the local custodians of John Brown’s story, the Society rec- Society staff and board members began documenting the ognizes that Black Lives Matter. We value our African American historic year through photographs, stories and three dimensional residents and appreciate their contributions to this community, artifacts. Gatherings with masks, socially distant and ZOOM dis- past and present. We support the calls for racial justice today, cussions for board and committee meetings were photographed and we stand with peaceful protesters in Akron, Summit County, and preserved digitally by Dave Lieberth. Kitty Endres and Deb the State of Ohio, and the United States demanding equality. Loughborough gathered names and contacts at the Society’s Juneteenth outdoor programming to interview participants about Fulfilling a promise to the community their lives during the pandemic. Renee Hennemann, Society curatorial assistant, contacted local photographers to collect Seven years of planning and fundraising to restore and reha- imagery across the community featuring closed theatres and bilitate the John Brown House, has resulted in a $1.2 million signs in neighborhoods. Homemade masks by a women’s group investment in the community for the structure to be “Accessible in Hudson and a North Hill Bhutanese sewing community, as well to All” by this summer. as plastic face covers by a local plastics company were added to the Society’s permanent collection. We look forward to seeing you on Mutton Hill! Sincerely, Tom Clark Leianne Neff Heppner Chairman, Board of Directors President & CEO 2 Annual Report 2020

EVENTS: Top to bottom: Rudy’s birthday with the Akron Symphony; • Book Talk on The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company: Juneteenth at Farm Friday; A Photographic History by S. Vic Fleischer summer staff hosted by the Ohio Humanities CARES grant; • Community Talk Back - NEW “A Gluttonous Affair,” 1920s festivities preCovid. • Farm Fridays Summit County Historical Society 2020 Annual Report 3 • Family Fun Day • A Gluttonous Affair - NEW • John Brown Monument Tours with Akron Zoo • North American First People’s Day with Lippman School, the Northern Cheyenne Nation and Portage Path Collaborative - virtually • Paranormal Bonfire with Laura Lyn - NEW • ReThinking Race Lecture & Trolley Tours with The University of Akron • Rubber City Road Rally Barn Tour to Seiberling Farm • Rudy’s Birthday Party with Akron Symphony • Sheep Return to Mutton Hill • True Crime Tour • Woman of the Year Awards: Women’s History Project of the Akron Area EXHIBITS: Ohio Building • Smithsonian Traveling Poster Display on Suffrage History • Ohio History Connection Traveling Display on the Ohio Suffrage Movement Summit County Courthouse • World War II EDUCATION: • The Society in the schools: – In class outreach was curtailed due to the pandemic so a new program was started on Facebook thanks to Society Shepherdess and volunteer, Edie Steiner. – Artifacts with Edie ran on Facebook live from April 2020 through March 2021 with over 65 episodes reaching thousands of viewers – The program was recognized by the Ohio Local History Alliance with an Outstanding Program Award and it was presented with Kudos Award by the Greater Akron Chamber and Live Publishing • Interactive programs for adults: – Remember When…programs were held in January and February and then they were postponed during the pandemic.

FOUNDING MEMBERS Leah Jane Renz Elizabeth Kamenar Mary Beth Ellison Lawrence Rohr Bryan & Susan Kinnamon S. Victor Fleischer ($1,000 level) Josh Rolnick James & Maureen Kovach Bruce Ford Dr. Theresa Beyerle Rebecca Slayman & Everett Gallagher Mary Anne Krejci Colleen Freigant Tom & Karen Clark Richey & Sandra Smith Jean Krieger Jean Gadd Keith & Lynette Collett Sue Kruder Suzie Graham John Dalton SUMMIT SPONSORS Lynne & Dave Lieberth Tonya Gulley Dr. Kathleen Endres Jeanne & Tony Locastro Bob & Darlene Haren Marty & Beth Hauser ($100 level) Deborah Loughborough Jack & Vivian Harig Bob Hutchison Donald & Geneva Amtsberg Mac Love Frank & Connie Hollish Cynthia Knight Kimberly Anderson, Akron GinaKaye Maddox Peg Horan Kevin McCauley Maynard Family Foundation Ray & Tammy Jo Hughes M.G. O’Neil Foundation Beacon Journal Kevin McCauley Tom Hutchison The Perkins Charitable Foundation David & Donna Axson William & Nancy McGrath Hedy Jones Carter & Miriam Ray Chuck & Lisa Ayers Bob & Vicki Merzweiler Rick & Suzanne Jones Daniel & Jennifer Tompkins Alice Bergstrom Ed Metzger Tim & Martha Keeler Jeff & Brenda Walters Theresa S. Beyerle, Ph.D. David Minc Denise Lundell Pat Weschler Jane Bond & James Wagner Rev. Dr. David Nelson Robert & Paula Malone Theresa Boware David & Ann Otto John & Betty Miller SIMON PERKINS Amy & Brad Bowers Michael & Janet Pera Dr. Eliot & Michelle Mostow BENEFACTORS Lydia Bozeman James & Beverly Peters Adam Motter Albert & Suzie Brewster III Marianne Pockrandt Heard Nicole Mullett ($500 level) Michael Bullock, Tarry House Ronald & Jean Powell Michael & Kimberly Murray Joe Abraham Michael Casseday, PTA Dan & Valeri Remark, Angelo & Catherine Nasca Tom & Karen Clark Aimee Neiman Stephen Comunale Engineering, Inc. Remarkable Diner Shirley Nourjian Bruce & Erica Greer Donae Ceja Nancy Rhinehart Stephen & Mary Paschen Bob Hutchison Alice Christie Gloria Rodgers Hannah Paulin Christopher & Nancy Karman Richard Ciccarone Susie Rogers John & Cindy Petures Jason & Cindy Petrik Bill & Becky Considine Rosemary Reymann & Mary Plazo Guy & Renée Pipitone Marie Covington Virginia Pugh Roger Read Barbara Crucs Donald Schmid Greta Puhalla David & Lisa Schauer Todd & Lisa Dietrich Arthur & Jean Schooley Dan & Nancy Rice Steven Thompson Robert Dill Katherine Sheldon, Canal Society Ron & Jilinda Richer Jeff & Brenda Walters Johnna Economou Keith & Colleen Riley Kathleen Endres, Ph.D. of Ohio Elinor Rodgers JOHN BROWN Bruce & Elizabeth Fahey Russell & Marybeth Sibert Roberta Rodgers BENEFACTORS Cathy Faye Tim & Melissa Tober Kenneth & Britney Rogers Kimball Firestone Rebecca Urban, Peninsula Valley Rosemary Schaeffer ($250 level) Phil & Alison First Ted Schneiderman John Antro Robert & Beverley Fischer Historical & Education Fdn. Earl & Ann Shaw Craig Babbitt Steve France Donna Valentine Billy Soule Bruce & Sandy Bailey Paul Frank Jr Anne Varian Phil & Virginia Steinberg Ann Brennan Thomas & Nancy Fuller Russell & Margaret Vernon Christopher & Edie Steiner Nancy Brennan Todd Fulmer Larry Wallerstein & Sheila Garten Bill & Mary Jo Stewart Nick Browning, Huntington Jeff Fusco Tom & Dolly Webb Joy Tkacik & Sher McGinnis Keith & Lynette Collett Robert Dill Brian Gage, AMHA John Wilkinson John Tillman Tim Dimoff, S&U Business Strategies David Gates Virginia Wojno-Forney Simon Toth Lorraine Fair William Ginter Gerald Young Ronald & Carol Tynan Helen Fleming Toby Gorant Mark Valentine Ethel Seiberling Fox Walter Green FAMILY MEMBERS John Valle II John & Lois Gerstenmaier, Jr. Virginia Gunn Cheryl Warren Karl Hay Robert Handelman, Chemstress ($60 level) Dan Weiss John & Nancy Heslop Jen Hardin Ted Arnn Mike & Ann Maria Wells Phyllis Knepper Frank & Pat Harrah Nicole Barnett Patrick Weschler Stephen Love Art & Earline Harris Georgene Bayer Jeff & Libby Wilson William & Anne Lowery Gary & Marty Hartman James & Linda Beck Alan & Janice Woll Stan & Roberta Marks Jane Huffman, Akron Civic Theatre Karl Brothers Gerald Young Eric & Nancy McClenaghan Women’s Guild Robert & Ann Burton Carter & Miriam Ray Jeffrey & Judy James Eleanor Campbell Layton Register Robert Jenkins Elizabeth C. Campbell Nathan Remington, Sylvia & Howard Johnson Rich Comstock Bill Jordan & Laurel Winters Darrell & Elinor Cooper AKROAKROCHEM Corp. Shirley Dickinson Bob & Lisa Drew 4 Annual Report 2020

FAMILY Phil & Virginia Steinberg Pam Bell Betty Stalnaker MEMBERSHIP Christopher & Edie Steiner Kathy Burd, Allen County Mary Jo Stasell Bill & Mary Jo Stewart Agnes Stitz Ted Arnn Kim Strausser & Mike Miller Public Library Bob Troyer Nicole Barnett Virginia & Jan Stuver Judith Campbell Mark Valentine Georgene Bayer Joy Tkacik Brian Caperones Jan Weaver Karl Brothers Larry Turner Carolyn Burrier Linda Werntz James & Linda Beck Ronald & Carol Tynan Janet Caudill Katherine Widness Robert & Ann Burton John Valle II Harriet Chapman Bill Wilkerson Eleanor Campbell Chris & Kathleen Vandevere Pauline Chase Forrest Wise Elizabeth Campbell Mike & Ann Maria Wells Elizabeth Cole Becky Woodruff Rich Comstock Patrick Weschler Robert Cunninghan Timothy Work Darrell & Elinor Cooper Jason & Teri Woodruff Jane Delcamp Janis Worley Shirley Dickinson Cherry Dudley Karen Wren Bob & Lisa Drew COMPANION Alan Ederer Mary Beth Ellison MEMBERS Susan Ernst JOHN BROWN HOUSE S. Victor Fleischer Rosemary Fausnight Bruce Ford Al & Donna Barracato Diane Fencl PHASE III “ACCESSIBLE TO ALL” Colleen Freigant Madeline & Libert Bozzelli Jeffrey Franks Akron Community Foundation Jean Gadd Brian Caperones Julia Gammon Dr. Nicole Barnett Suzie Graham John & Cheryl Clason Ronnie Gilchrist Dr. Theresa Beyerle Tonya Gulley Terry & Darla Curtis David Halaiko Karl Brothers Bob & Darlene Haren Buff Darkow Joyce Hamaker Michelle Byrd Jack & Vivian Harig Gerald & Patricia Donnelly R. J. Hemphill Janet Caudill Frank & Connie Hollish Carl Ehmann & Heidi Wojcik Jean Henshaw Keith & Lynette Collett Peg Horan Eric Eisenhart Patti Hester Terry & Darla Curtis Ray & Tammy Jo Hughes Theodore Forsberg Julie Huckriede Bob Dill Tom Hutchison Steve France Carol Hulsemann Phil & Alison First Hedy Jones Pam Gay Elizabeth Hyde Siman Bruce Ford Rick & Suzanne Jones Tom & Dee Ghinder Barbara Johnson William & Marie Ginter Tim & Martha Keeler Lisa Goldstein Ardith Keck Bruce & Erica Greer Family Founda- Denise Lundell Karen Hackenberry Mary Ann Kozma tion Robert & Paula Malone Judy Hanna Kathryn Krieger Joyce Hamaker Kathy McConnell Toinette Howe Brenda Leighton Frank & Pat Harrah John & Betty Miller Allan Johnson III Janet Little Allan Johnson III Eliot & Michelle Mostow Marilyn Keith Carl Lieberman Dr. Raymond & Sharon Kimberly Adam Motter Raymond & Sharon Kimberly Antoine Maddox Phyllis Knepper Nicole Mullett A. H. Mabry Eva Manbeck Jean Krieger Michael & Kimberly Murray Peter & Laurel Markovich Elaine Marcius The Lehner Family Foundation Angelo & Catherine Nasca Al & Janet McCaulley Martha Marsh Lynne & David Lieberth Aimee Neiman Joshua Moore Rosalee Mather Elaine Marcius Shirley Nourjian Ruth Nahas Joan May Kevin McCauley Stephen & Mary Paschen John & Carole Peterson Tim McCullen Dr. John Murphy Hannah Paulin C. David & Joyce Post Tim McMullen Leianne Neff Heppner John & Cindy Petures Don Reisig Heather Meeker Pam Nix Mary Plazo Chuck & Pam Reitz Dominic Morber Oriana House Virginia Pugh Jack & Mary Schifano John Murphy David & Ann Otto Greta Puhalla Shannon Schlarb Carolyn Narotsky Portage Lakes Historical Society Dan & Nancy Rice Brad Schoenfelt Woodrow Nash Clara Robinson Ron & Jilinda Richer Lewis & Marilyn Snodgrass Leianne Neff Heppner Jack & Mary Schifano Keith & Colleen Riley Susan Straits Pam Nix Brian Seidner Elinor Rodgers Tom & Linda Teodosio Mary O’Connor Rebecca Slayman & Everett Galligher Roberta Rodgers Jeff & Libby Wilson Jacob Pelrine Susan Straits Rosemary Schaeffer Betty Young Richfield Historical Society Kim Strausser & Mike Miller Kenneth and Britney Rogers Clara Robinson Tarry House Inc Ted Schneiderman INDIVIDUAL Tim Roth, Perkins Landscaping Daniel & Jennifer Tompkins Charles & Kim Schreckenberger MEMBERS Max Rothal Village of Oakwood Mayor’s Office Earl & Ann Shaw Elizabeth Brainard Sandwick John Wilkinson Joy Tkacik & Sher McGinnis Na’eem Abdullah Nicole Scafidi Patricia Williamsen Lori Smith Karen Adinolfi Janice Stahl Becky Woodruff Akron Summit County Public Library Janna Amole Summit County Historical Society 2020 Annual Report 5

DONORS Thanks to the Ohio History Connection and a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, the Society received an Ohio Historical Marker at the John Brown House. We appreciate those who made donations in 2020 to further John Dalton Jason & Cindy Petrik Robert & Ann Burton the work of the Society: Kitty Endres Guy & Renée Pipitone Judith Campbell Marty & Beth Hauser Roger Read Richard Ciccarone Foundations, Grants and Bob Hutchison Rubber City Arches James Cox Family Fund Donations Tom Hutchison Chas & Kim Schreckenberger Terry & Darla Curtis Akron Community Foundation Phyllis Knepper Seiberling Farm Jane Delcamp Glenn R. & Alice V. Boggess Cynthia Knight Betty Stalnaker Bob & Lisa Drew Kevin McCauley Summit Racing Fairlawn Dermatology Memorial Foundation Carter & Miriam Ray Swensons Drive In, Steve Kimball Firestone Henry V. & Frances W. Christenson SummaHealth System Phil & Alison First Daniel & Jennifer Tompkins Thompson Robert & Beverley Fischer Charitable Foundation Jeff & Brenda Walters Tarry House Thomas & Nancy Fuller Community Response Fund for Pat Weschler Tire Source Todd Fulmer John Wilkinson Dave Gates Nonprofits through ACF Donations $100+ John & Lois Gerstenmaier Mary S. & David C. Corbin Donations $500+ AKROCHEM CORPORATION Toby Gorant APV Chemstress Consultant Co Joyce Hamaker Foundation Elizabeth Campbell Mark & Sandy Auburn Frank & Pat Harrah The Lorraine G. & Donald R. Fair Bob Dill David & Donna Axson Gary & Marty Hartman Phyllis Knepper Chuck & Lisa Ayers Marianne Pockrandt Heard Fund of ACF William & Marie Ginter Dr. Nicole Barnett John & Nancy Heslop Feth Family Foundation Lynne & Dave Lieberth Jane Bond & James Wagner Highland Veterinary Bruce & Erica Greer Family Dennis & Denise Lundell Theresa Boware Toinette Howe Don Miller & Leianne Neff Lydia Bozeman Allan Johnson III Foundation Ann Brennan K Company The Patricia & J. Harvey Graves Heppner Albert & Suzie Brewster Oriana House Eric Brothers Family Foundation Arthur Kelly Fund of Akron Community Foundation Knight Foundation Donor Advised Fund of ACF The Lehner Family Foundation Charles E. & Mable M. Ritchie Memorial Foundation John A. McAlonan Fund of ACF Lisle M. Buckingham Fund of ACF M.G. O’Neil Foundation OECA Foundation Ohio History Connection Ohio Humanities CARES, National Endowment for the Humanities, CARES ACT of 2020 On the Table of ACF Payroll Protection Program (PPP) The Perkins Charitable Foundation Cindy & John T. Petures, Jr. Family Fund of Akron The Richard & Alita Rogers Family Foundation The Sisler McFawn Foundation Summit LandBank Vernon Odom Fund of ACF The Welty Family Foundation The Wilkinson-Gudikunst Designated Family Fund of ACF Donations $1,000+ Joe Abraham Theresa Beyerle Tom & Karen Clark Keith & Lynette Collett 6 Annual Report 2020

Raymond & Sharon Kimberly Bindu Kumar and Jennifer Oberg were pleased to pose with Society president, Leianne Neff Heppner, and board Harold Koltnow directors, Karen Hackenberry and Keith Collett to reflect the generation donation from the Huntington-Akron James & Maureen Kovach Foundation to support community educational programming and John Brown House phase III. Jean Krieger Robert Kroeger Village Of Oakwood Mayor’s Office Rubber City Arches Dr. Robert Kroeger Sue Kruder Winklemann Insurance Summit Racing Dennis & Denise Lundell Dr. Anthony & Jeanne Locastro Becky Woodruff Jeff & Brenda Walters Jill Papajcik Deborah Loughborough Gerald Young Highland Veterinary Clinic PAV’s Steven Love Michael & Claudia Zeber-Martel Dr. Tony & Jeanne Locastro Pearl Coffee GinaKaye Maddox Fairlawn Dermatology, LLC Perry Ice Cream Stan & Roberta Marks ROAD RALLY DONORS Eric & Nancy McClenaghan Pink Petals Florist Al & Janet McCaulley & SPONSORS Akron Zoo J. M. Smucker Eric & Nan McClenaghan Dr. Kitty Endres Edie & Christopher Steiner John & Betty Miller Bob Hutchison S. Victor Fleischer Summit County Engineer Network for Good Tom Hutchison Leianne Neff Heppner Take 5 Oil Change Pam Nix The Lisle M. Buckingham Toinette Howe Rebecca Woodruff David & Ann Otto Bob Hutchison Pearl Coffee Endowment Fund Of Akron Tom Hutchison Michael & Janet Pera Community Foundation Pink Petals Florist Joe Abraham The Plate-All Metal Company Tire Source Portage Lakes Historical Society Ronald & Jean Powell Lawrence Rohr Pat Sargent Jack & Mary Schifano Ron Schmid & Rosemary Reymann Brad Schoenfelt Arthur & Jean Schooley Brian Seidner Becky Slayman & Everett Gallagher J.M. Smucker Co Edie & Christopher Steiner Virginia Stuver & Jan Stuver Donna Valentine Chris & Kathleen VanDevere Russell & Margaret Vernon 2020 Society Finances Source of Funds Expenditures Admissions and Administration Volunteers Expense 2% Gift Shop 2% 18% Grants Educational Supplies, Fees & Properties 45% Programming 15% Misc Expenses 5% Management Membership Dues 30% 3% Donations and Education Professional Fees 6% Fundraisers 20% 35% Marketing & Development 4% Endowment Income Contract Income 5% 10% Summit County Historical Society 2020 Annual Report 7

Summit County Historical Society 2021 EVENTS VISIT US ONLINE Farm Fridays Mutton Hill Book Club 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. - Free 6:30 p.m. Society Homepage: Free preschool - middle school SummitHistory.org education programming June 21 - The Wright Sister June Oct. 18 - Beloved Akron Women’s History Project: 18 - Juneteenth Dec. 20 - The Mystery of Blogs.UAkron.edu/WomensHistory 25 - Farm Chores Mrs. Christie Research The Society’s archives at July the Akron-Summit County Public 2 - Independence Day Family Fun Day Library’s Special Collections Division: 9 - Native American History July 10 - Noon - 4 p.m. Free 97th http://SC.AkronLibrary.org 16 - Portage Path Anniversary Celebration 23 - Pioneer Life 2021 Summit County Historical Society 30 - Perkins Family Historic Barns of Ohio Board of Directors Book signing by the author, August Dr. Robert Kroeger, at Himelrigh OFFICERS Donald R. Fair* 6 - Canal History Farm, Barberton Ann Falor* 13 - Canal Life Thomas Clark, Chair Philip F. Franz* 20 - Rudy’s Birthday Historic Barns of Ohio Elizabeth Campbell, Vice Chair Jack E. Gieck* 27 - Foklore September 15th Brad Schoenfelt, Treasurer Kathryn M. Hunter* George Knepper, Ph.D.* September North American First DIRECTORS Dave Lieberth 3 - Akron’s Rubber History People’s Day Lynn R. Metzger, Ph.D.* Oct. 4 Theresa S. Beyerle, Ph.D., John V. Miller Working Dog Wednesdays Theresa Boware Charles E. Pierson* 5:30 p.m. - Free True Crime with Janet Carrie Burrier Renée Pipitone July 7 Oct. 15th Keith Collett Stewart B. Steiner* Aug. 4 Kitty Endres, Ph.D. Ronald B. Tynan, Sr. Paranormal Trick or Treat Christopher Esker Lucinda Weiss Mutton Hill Monday Oct. 31st Karen Hackenberry *Deceased Noon - Free More to be added soon! Bob Hutchison June 21 Deborah Loughborough STAFF July 19 GinaKaye Maddoxn Aug 16 Joshua Moore Leianne Neff Heppner Adam Motter President & CEO Juneteenth, Commemorating Woodrow Nash the end of Slavery Rev. Dr. David Nelson Mary Conley June 19 - Free Emma Lieberth Osborn Membership & 4th Grade Outreach Jason Petrik 10 a.m. Chas Schreckenberger Denise Lundell Community Talk Back: Tim Tober Accountant & Gift Shop Manager Equality & Equity Jeff Walters Patrick Weschler Reva Golden 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Virginia Wojno-Forney Education & Community Outreach Community Picnic DIRECTORS Dave Gates 11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. EMERITUS Janet McCaulley “Life of John Brown” short play Remember When Outreach by Reva Golden Joe Abraham Marget Alexander* Renee Hennemann Judith Rainey Baughman* Curatorial Assistant Madeline Bozzelli Martha Bray* Christopher Steiner Ruth Wright Clinefelter* Facilities John Dalton Ted Dettling* CONTACT US 550 Copley Road, Akron, Ohio 44320 Phone: 330.535.1120 Email: [email protected] 550 Copley Road Akron, Ohio 44320 2020 Annual Report