4,241 research outputs found

    Oral history interview with Kent Barton

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    Oral history interview by Anne P. Peterson with Kent Barton. Topics include: Businesspeople, Entrepreneurship, Economics and business, Social life and customs, Business, Industry, Labor, Commerce, City and Town Life, Education, Genealogy; Agriculture; Business ethics, Work ethic, Norbest Turkeys, Nutri-Mulch, Politics, Specialty food industry; Energy resources, Human resource development, Communication, and Moroni Feed Company; Mona (Utah)

    The Kent Historian, Kent Historical Society Newsletter, Number 111, Fall 2024

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    THE KENT HISTORIAN THE NEWSLETTER OF THE KENT HISTORICAL SOCIETY FALL 2024 VOLUME 111 Depot Celebration Will Honor Railroad History Sandy Halem President Emeritus On Sunday June 1st, 2025, Kent Historical Society will lead the community in celebrating the 150th anniversary of the opening of the Erie Depot. From 3:00 -5:00 the people of Kent are invited to a birthday party in the Depot, now home to the restaurant Over Easy. The program will include games, food, music, and an educationa l program recognizing the importance of the railroad and Marvin Kent in our town's development. Local educator and railroad historian Bruce Dzeda is working to complete an updated history of rail transportation systems in Kent. Dzeda's previously published book, Railroad Town, has been a bestseller at KHS ror years. Keep an eye out for news about his new book as we get closer to Depot 150. Also on deck for pubI ication is our very speciaI coloring book -a collaborative efforl between KHS and Stanton Middle School art teacher Mr. Knepper. The coloring pages are based on work by Knepper's s tudenls and the book wi II also include rail road­themed games to help bring both fun and local history to kids in elementary school. Depot 150 u)L , uf_---·~-J; ~OlbM J/wtteft,/ The celebration will also kick off a fundraising campaign to aid in our continued preservation of the Depot and the historic Clapp-Woodward house, home of KHS' Museum and archival space. Finally, a new railroad-themed exhibit will open at our Museum in June. The exhibit will feature custom replicas of clothing from that era and highlight Kent's early historian Charlotte Weaver. We are working with a talented costume designer lo recreate what a woman like Weaver would have worn and carried when traveling by train. If you would like to be involved in some of these events please contact KHS and we will help you get started. Haymaker Family Artifact Finds New Home at KHS Echo Malleo Collections Manager The repetition of the name throughout the area provides [n June, KHS acquired a special piece related to d family whose name is likely familiar to Kent residents. some indication of the importance of the fami ly to our Visitors to our Museum may recall our display on the city's history. Haymaker family, but if not, it is still likely that at Story continued on page 2 some point you have driven along Haymaker Parkway or attended the Haymaker Farmer's Market. Story continued from page 1 The desk complements a number of other Haymaker Family artifacts in our front exhibition rooms. Plan a visit soon to take a closer look! The Haymakers were among the first settlers in the Kent area and built the first grist mill in 1807, leading to the town's early name of Franklin Mills. Other notable firsts belonging to the Haymaker family include the first non­Indigenous child born in the area in 1807 and the first recorded death in 1810. Members of the Haymaker family have been active in the town since, participating in many clubs and even acting as part of city council over the years. Earlier this summer, KHS was contacled by a descendent of Sarah Haymaker Elgin (another notable family name) about donating a piece of furniture previously owned by Sarah. The item in question was a piano Lhat Sarah had had converted into a desk. KHS doesn'L often accept donations of furniture due to limited ability to care for and slore such special pieces. But this desk, related to two such important families to Kent history, was a welcome addition to our collections. St. Patrick's School Building Now One Century Old Tim DeFrange Contributing Writer Thirty-eight years ago, in 1986, Saint Patrick's School on Portage Street turned 100 years old. To mark that anniversary, Record Courier staff writer Elaine Schwinn wrote a sixteen-page special supplemental article about the history of the school. 2024 now marks another anniversary for Saint Patrick's school: 100 years since the 1924 construction of the "old" eight­classroom building. Plans began in 1920, after the Humility of Mary Sisters had spent 30-plus years educating the parish school children in an 1886 wooden four-classroom clapboard building. Not only was lhe building painfully overcrowded, but its wooden floor was full of holes and a coal furnace burned below. The sisters wou ld often send the boys down below the floor lo sloke the coal rurnace. Mary Armstrong Bissler remembered how some of Lhe boys would come up wilh their eyebrows singed. Eleanor McCombs recalled the fundra ising effort of selling bricks to make the new school building a reality. Children in the parish were sent out to sell lhem for the wa lls of the school. For just a dime. a donor could own a portion of a brick and a whole brick cost 5.Thecampaignsucceeded.In1924throughtheleadershiporFr.JamesNolan,thenewbrickschoolbuildingwascompletedalacostor5. The campaign succeeded. In 1924 through the leadership or Fr. James Nolan, the new brick school building was completed al a cost or 90,000. 1952 photograph showing the schoolhouse building to the right of the old Church on Portage Street. The building's construction cost of 90,000isequivalenttonearly90,000 is equivalent to nearly 1. 7 Million today. By 1928 nearly two-thirds of the cost had been paid. Unlike the old school, bathrooms were inside the building. 350 students were housed in the eight brand­new classrooms in the fall of 1924. Three decades later by 1964, twelve more classrooms had been added to the origi naI eight. The origi na I eight-classroom portion sti 11 serves, providing the school office, classrooms, computer instruction, and the library for Saint Patrick's school children in 2024. 2 Picturing the Past: The Shively House The Northwest corner of Main and Depeyster Streets has long been home to the Kent Stage, a building with its own fascinating history. But what came before it? Until 1927, on that very same plot of land stood the palatial residence of Dr. Joe Shively. Originally built for Zenas Kent himself, this house was the very first of the "mansions" of Kent. This 1874 artist's rendering shows the home in all its splendor. Keeping Pioneer Cemetery Beautiful As part of our stewardship of local historical sites. KHS hosts regular cleanup days of the Stow Street Pioneer Cemetery. We were very excited to have special volunteers at our most recent one on Saturday, November 2nd. Aicien Ziots. local prospective Eagle Scout, has been working with us since .July to organize cleanup efforts, conduct a tree inventory or the site with Davey Tree, and arrange for a new commemorative plaque at the cemetery's entrance (you'll be able to see it this coming spring!). John Burnell, stone masonry expert, has done an amazing job at headstone restoralion and taking utmost care to preserve details of th~se artifacts. Big thanks to both of them and everyone else who came to help out! Top: Before and after headstone restoration work by Burnell Bottom left: Burnell loading stones to the Cemetery Bottom right: Led by Ziots, young volunteers carry raked leaves The Mission of the Kent · · Histor«:al Soci~:t)' is to plthe primary Kent history resource and reference center, leading the co.mmunity in .the.col/ectign, · ' preservation, and~/nterpretation of Kents heritage. The Soriety offers educational programs to schools, bw.sinesses, civio . .. organizations, ·and individ'iiais. . • ~ ➔ " ., Board of 11 JadcAm rhefn:, Scott Flynn, Vice Presid Carol Strnble, Vice President Matt Metcalf, Treasurer, drey Cie[inski Kessler, Secretary Jean Booth . -, Howarcj.Boyfe Rebecca Dunlap i--,,...--...,..._~ --t-:,"t-t-Hg-cftl-1:-f.er -~:£:::"2-::'::?--.c, Tom Hatch Maggie Mc&endry ., Jim Myers Esther Thatcher Director Julie Kenworthy · · Staff Bengt George, Communication~ Echo Malleo,.. Collections· Contact us: Kent H1st6r1(ar Societt 237 East Main Street Kent, OH ·44240 (330)678~i112 KHS ~KentOhieHistory:q~g KentOhioHistory.org ~, Eacebook.com/KentHistoriaaJ Society -• t ~ ~ . . 7"?·~ . ~ ,;~,.,. Museum Hours: Fridays and Satur~ys lOAM~2PM or by appointment . Last Chance to See Liquid Crystals Exhibit Save the Date: Winter Open House On Saturday, December 7th. we will have our regular public hours wilh a feslive twist! From I0AM-IPM we wi ll have free refreshmenls and ramily-friendly crafts! As we near our seasonal close starting December 15th, we would like to encourage members to come see our most recent temporary exhibt. Modern Vision: Liquid Crystal Technology in Kent. A collaboration belween KHS. Kenl Stale Universily, and local tech company Kent Displays, this exhibit has stood out for a couple or reasons. First, with artifacts and pholos dating from the 1960s through to present day. it is our most modern exhibit ever. Second, il is our most interactive exhibit lo date. Visitors are invited to take a mood ring (which technically makes use of Liquid Crystal technology) and try a variety or Kent Displays' innovative Boogie Board products. Liquid Crystal Displays, mosl notably used today in phone and TV screens, have an importanl history in Kent. Kent State has been a major international player in the development in this technology since 1965 when Professor Glenn H. Brown founded the Liquid Crystal Institute. His colleague. .I. William Doane, would go on to author many patents and secure government funding for important work in the field. He would also found Kent Displays in 1993. The company thrives today creating affordable resuable writi ng surfaces for schools, hospitals, and lhe general public. Plan a visil soon before we inslall a new exhibil for spring! Holiday Book Sale! Have you read our bestseller Bars, Bands, and Rock 'n Roll by Chas Madonia? Interested in Bruce Dzeda's Railroad Town: Kent and the Erie Railroad? Stop by the Museum or visit KentOhioHistory.org/shop to pick up a gift for the local history lover in your lire

    The Kent Historian, Kent Historical Society Newsletter, Number 101, Summer 2021

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    Special issue: In Memoriam Remembering Roger DiPaoloTHE KENT HISTORIAN September 2021 In Memoriam Remembering Roger Di Paolo By Sandra Halem President Emeritus KHS In June 2009, Roger and I met at the Haymaker Farmer's Market in Kent and spoke once again about putting together a book about Kent history based on his Sunday Record-Courier newspaper columns. He had taken over the local history column after Loris Troyer had retired. It was his rightful inheritance. While Loris had learned his history as a transplant from Amish country, Roger was born to it. He absorbed the stories of his hometown as well as becoming an expert on all the small towns that made up his beloved Portage County. As the Kent Historical Society Presi ent, 1 ha ma de publications a priority. We began a six-month accel­erated timeline to a Christmas publica­ tion assisted by "Team Roger," which included journalists Mary Louise Ruehr, Bob Springer, Kasha Legaza-Burton and her husband Jona, along with Roger, my husband Henry and me. We winnowed down hundreds of columns into catego­ries but couldn't decide on a title. Roger settled on Rooted in Kent. No one was more "rooted" here than Jit.ne_3, lq5b -JLLne t't, ~o)J Roger. He had been an award-winning reporter who could have taken his talents to a bigger city but leaving was unimaginable. Kent was everything Roger loved. Being editor of the Record­Courier was everything he had dreamed about. Few people can be so totally fulfilled by a job that both defined them and contributed to the betterment of their community. He loved sharing. It was his honor to be asked questions and his greatest pleasure to be able to answer them. But most of all, he left us all with a better sense of the arc of our town's life through the eyes of one of its favorite sons who never had to leave to be suc­cessful. Roger stayed out of choice and contributed out of love. His death leaves an enormous hole. We will miss all the books that will never be written, but we are grateful to have had you here with us, dear friend. Thank you for making a difference. By Wayne R. Enders Historian-in-Residence Portage County Historical Society For most of its 213 years of history, Portage County has been fortunate to have had several individuals who have had an interest in recording local history. Roger Di Paolo and I met when we were in the eighth grade because of our parents' activity in local politics and stayed in touch over a half century due to our love for local history. Through his inquisitive mind, attention to detail, and his search for truth, he was able to apply his journalistic skills to write some of the best nar-, · l, rative histories of our age. As editor of the Record-Cou­rier at 36, Di Paolo had the most powerful typewriter in the county. He never used his influence to label or divide, but to encourage and unite. Roger was a great listener. He was not one to interrupt. If asked a question concerning someone he knew or a topic that was dear to him, he could talk at great length with a wealth of informa­tion. His books on Kent and Ravenna were a reflection of his commitment to history and his desire to educate his readers. Those narratives were but the tip of the iceberg of the knowledge he had, and the unwritten ones forever lost by his untimely death. A friend of the underdog and those who were denied rights and freedoms, he chose his friends from all walks of life, His only unwrit­ten requirement was that a person be fair, honest and opened-minded. It was my honor and privilege to have been his friend and colleague. 2017, he authored Portage Pathways, a went on to careers in national media. By David Dix Former Publisher, Record-Courier weekly history column that had been Born June 3, 1955, Roger is survivedstarted by his predecessor, the late Loris by his husband, Timothy Krasselt; his Roger J. Di Paolo, my editor ofthe C. Troyer. Di Paolo's Portage Pathways son, Brian Di Paolo; and his sisters, Lin­Record-Courier from 1991 until March were compiled into two books. Rooted da Di Paolo Prezioso and Betsy Soule. 2017, died June 18, 2021, following a . in Kent was published in collaboration long battle with cancer. with the Kent Historical Society and An elegant The Ravenna Record was published to stylist and raise money to refurbish the historic grammarian Ravenna flagpole on Main Street. By Henry Halem ofprecision, I will miss Roger. He was a wonder­Volunteer, KHS an avid reader ful conversationalist and my near daily and student of Beyond a personal friendship, I had discussions with him about the day's local history, Di the pleasure ofworking with Roger on news after he became editor were never Paolo chroni­his book publishing projects for the dull. I looked forward to them and cled the news of Kent Historical Society. learned a lot. Roger held strong views. Portage County Sometimes we did not agree, but he I have many fond memories ofsit­for 40 years. He got his start at the Re­had a way ofmaking me re-examine my ting around my dining room table withcord-Courier as a reporter in 1977 when own opinions and Roger nearly always Roger and his editorial team, hashinghe reported on the protests surrounding made me laugh. He had a great capacity out which articles and photos to includethe construction ofa building on land for empathizing with those getting a in his book Rooted in Kent: 101 Taleschat intruded on the site where four ftom the Tree City. His eye forstudents were killed on May 4, 1970. detail was always present. HereA Roosevelt High School student in are a couple ofdetails Roger1970, the shootings had a formative wanted included in the bookeffect on Di Paolo's view ofthe world. that I found in notes from thoseHe had an affinity for the underdog, meetings: Include about the Silkpassed on by his father, the late Judge Mill: "... it took about one millionRoger F. Di Paolo. bricks to build which were all sup­Roger's abilities were recognized plied by the Ferry Brickyard which early. In 1978 while a student at Kent was located in town. "About the State, Di Paolo was the recipient of Clapp/Woodward House, "... the James M. Sutherland Award, cited there is a fireplace in every one of as the Most Promising Young Profes­the four rooms facing out on main sional by the Sigma Delta Chi/Society street. No two fireplaces are alike. of Professional Journalist. He was One is oak, one is cherry, and two one of60 honored by the Kent State are paintedstone. "The book was University School ofJournalism and his labor oflove. Mass Communications at the School's The years passed and Roger60th anniversary in 1997. He was was itching to get involved inthe recipient offour Ohio Associated another book. I suggested we putPress Awards including Best Editorial together a book of Kent, BradyWriter. Honors were also bestowed by Lake and Kent State Universitythe Portage County Historical Society, vintage postcards. Roger thoughtthe Portage County Chapter ofthe the book was a wonderful idea,NAACP, the Kent City Schools of and we were soon hard at workHall ofFame, the Kent Area Chamber sorting postcards. Once Rogerof Commerce, and the Ohio School raw deal in life and had no patience for made his decision, he would then writeBoard Association. He set a record as those who feel entitled. two or three lines describing each card.the featured speaker for Kent State Uni­As editor, Di Paolo oversaw a staff of But Roger soon found that for many versity's town-gown Bowman Breakfast approximately 20 full-time and part­ofthe cards he had more to say. Howon three different occasions. time employees and a budget exceed­could it be otherwise? Roger was a man Devoted to local history, Di Paolo ing $1 million annually. He enjoyed ofdetails. On many occasions I would compiled a popular weekly history fea­teaching newcomers and was proud that have to tell him to "shorten it" and ture called Yesteryears. From 2002 until some ofthe reporters he worked with began to think ofmyself as chat grumpy old editor often depicted in old black­and-white movies. He would grumble, but eventually he'd find a way to shorten it. This book, Welcome to Kent, A Postcard Portrait ofthe Tree City, was in full color, and Roger was very happy with the result. In 2020 my wife Sandy revived an idea she'd had when she was the president of the his­torical society. Roger's cancer was in remission and she hoped he could help develop a walk­ing tour ofStanding Rock Cemetery. I would design a folded two-sided piece; on one side, a full-col­or map of the cemetery with specific grave sites marked, and on the other, a brief synopsis of the person buried at each site. He couldn't wait to start on the project. Roger and Sandy insisted that the tour include those individuals who represented -our historical diversity. Once the names were decided, Roger set to work writing a brief biography ofeach individual. "A Walking Tour of Standing Rock Cemetery" is a Kent "who's who." Seventy-seven people from all walks oflife who made a difference. Sad to say, there is now one more name to add to that distinguished list. I loved working with Roger and his "Team Roger," as we were known. I loved Roger. Listening to him reflect on all things Kent was a treat. He was not a man of few words when it came to his hometown and all the families that lived and died here. When­ever a Kent question arose about a family, a person, a place or a date, "Call Roger" was the cry. Call Roger. We cannot call Roger anymore, and I can­not tell you how many times since his death I have needed to make that call. Farewell, my friend. By Doria Daniels Civic Leader Roger and I shared the same passion about the accurate history and recogni­tion of Kent's South End neighborhood. Our interaction with each other goes back over 30 years when as a journalist and later a city editor. He had a keen eye for digging deeper into stories that emanated from our neigh­borhood. He didn't gloss over stories or dismiss content as we had ex­perienced before. This is how our friendship developed. It was years later that I learned his heritage began in the south end and he was obviously not embarrassed to associate or identify with his "South End" roots. He was fully supportive of our efforts to seek his­toric recognition for the neighborhood and was an asset in providing research, especially on the Italian contributions to this community. The legacy he left to this cpmmunity will be the drive to excel and to continue to overcome the prejudice and stereotypical depictions of the neighborhood. To that end we are PREVAILING. Team Roger: I to r, Henry Halem, Bob Springer, Roger, Kasha Legeza-Burton, Sandy Halem By Charles Michel Childhood Friend Conversations with my childhood friend Roger Di Paolo, always went something like this. Me... "Roger, whatever happened to old Mrs. Kelly?" Roger... "She died on Thanksgiving Day, 3 years ago. She had been living with her daughter, Lucy (whose married name was Smith) down in Ft. Myers Fl. Lucy was the youngest of the Kelly kids. There were ten kids in all. From oldest to youngest... there was Tommy, Teddy, Theresa, Mary, Emily, Arthur, Danny, Helen, Ellen, and baby Lucy. They lived on Highland Avenue just behind St. Patrick's Church. They are all still living except for Arthur, who died in Vietnam on September 3, 1969." No one person has ever known more about or cared more about the people in his own home community than Roger. Roger was much more than the editor of a newspaper... he was the heart that held close every memory of everyone and everything. For Roger, every Kent resident, past and present, living and dead... was family. And the entire community was itself more of a family because Roger lived his entire life there. Like George Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life, Roger's life was made wonderful by making a very big difference in his very own backyard. Roger Di Paolo was indeed "the richest man in town." And the town and the state and the nation and the world will forever be a bit poorer now that Roger is no longer here to keep it rich in memories and rich in love. By Jack Amrhein President, KHS On October 24, 2017 the Kent Historical Society and Museum's Board ofTustees appointed Roger Di Paolo as historian-in-residence. The board was fortunate that Roger was available to do the job and he and his knowledge of Kent's history were well known to the community. Mr. Di Paolo wrote or co­authored as well as edited books for the Society. In his role Roger helped muse­ ~------------------------­ Roger's horse-drawn hearse on its way to Standing Rock Cemetery ~ um visitors research historic questions as well as helped them trace relatives or past businesses that were important to them. He also presented programs on our behalf to the citizens of the community. On many occasions I remember Roger sitting down with visitors, employees and members and weaving Kent's history into fascinating and interesting stories. His knowledge of Kent's long and varied history was amazing. No one had the vast knowl­edge ofour community's history as did Roger. He was an excellent addition to our Museum's team. His talents as an author, editor and historian enabled the Kent Historical Society to enrich its programs of events, publications and public programs. Roger will be deeply missed. To contribute to the Roger Di Paolo Stu­dent Scholarship Fund at Roosevelt High School please call KHS at (330) 678-2712 or email [email protected] Photo credits: Brad Bolton, Tim Krasselt, Sandra Halem, Henry Halem ~ . 1 fu,,b.,fLuc:t~v ill." Jtu~ ~ ~/},_ ~-~---, ~ ~1' And, ofcourse I am grateful for havinggrown up in Kent, a community whose diversity is part ofmy heritage

    Les 28 jours d'une française aux Indes : De Bombay à Colombo, par Calcutta / Mme J. Barton Kent ; ouvrage orné de 24 planches hors texte, d'après les photographies prises par M. A. Barton Kent

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    Contient une table des matièresAvec mode texteDescriptions et voyages -- +* 1900......- 1999......+:20e siècle

    The Author: Kent Davis

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    Kent Davis is a Montana based author of “A Riddle in Ruby” and the soon to be released sequel, “The Changer’s Key”

    Kent Historical Society, Winter Notes 2009

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    Kent Historical Society WINTER NOTES 2009 PLEASE JOIN US Roger Di Paolo will be available to autograph copies of his new book, published by KHS, which includes 101 columns from his Portage Pathways articles for the Record Courier. This amazing book also contains more than 125 photographs from libraries, archives & private collections - some not seen in 100 years. This is a MUST for your holiday shopping list. Special KHS member price 17.00 Author! Roger Di Paolo ROOTED IN KENT: 101 Tales from the Tree City Published by KHS Press New Book Launching Party & Reception Saturday, December 12th 11:30-3:30 KHS HOLIDAY SHOPPING Don't forget to stop by the museum for some special gifts! A list of items available - including special discounts for KHS members - is included in this mailing. Holiday orders must be paid for and shipped ( or picked up) by Saturday, December 19th. Books, cards, mugs, puzzles, aprons, maps! NOW ON DISPLAY 1924 Player Piano (DONATIONS of piano rolls gratefully accepted) Patchwork quilt from the collection of Evangeline Davey City of Kent Model Trains 1831 rare stampless cover from "Franklin Mills, Ohio" signed by George B. DePeyster, postmaster WINTER VACATION The Kent Historical Society will be closed from December 20th, 2009 to February 3, 2010. We will reopen on Thursday, February 4th; call for special tour or research needs. Call (330) 678-2712 for more information. Mary Ann Green, administrator 234 South Water Street. Kent, Ohio www.kentohiohistory.org (330) 678-2712 email: [email protected] Mailing Address: Kent Historical Society P.O. Box 663 Members Discount Order Form Call or Mail your order Phone: 330.678.2712 Web: www.kentohiohistory.org Kent, OH 44240 Free Kent Bicentennial T-shirt with order over 10.00 (s, m, I, xi) Quan. Title @ Price Total (New) Rooted in Kent, 101 tales from the tree city (By Roger Di Paolo) 17.00(KHSPress)1882KentPanoramicViewMap(suitableforframing)17.00 (KHS Press) 1882 Kent Panoramic View Map (suitable for framing) 30.00 Kent and the Great War, The Letters of Leo Bietz (KHS Press) 14.001924KentCongregationalChurchCookBook(KHSPress)14.00 1924 Kent Congregational Church Cook Book (KHS Press) 9.00 The Story of Kent (KHS Press) 7.00RecollectionsofanOldSettler,ChristianCackler7.00 Recollections of an Old Settler, Christian Cackler 8.00 Haunting Tales From the Tree City (KHS Press) 5.00ImagesofAmerica:Kent5.00 Images of America: Kent 19.00 The History of Kent: Historical & Biographical, Karl Grismer 15.00PoliticianExtraordinaire:MartinL.Davey15.00 Politician Extraordinaire: Martin L. Davey 39.00 Portage Pathways, Loris Troyer 19.00PortageCountyTimeline,1669200719.00 Portage CountyTimeline, 1669- 2007 14.00 Vintage Aprons (limited quantity) 5.00ChristmasTreeOrnaments,HandBlown(limitedquantity)5.00 *Christmas Tree Ornaments, Hand Blown (limited quantity) 15.00 J *KHS Coffee Mugs 5.00WoodenSquirrelJigsawPuzzle(limitedquantity)5.00 Wooden Squirrel Jigsaw Puzzle (limited quantity) 4.00 DVD - Kent, The Early Years, Historical Overview (KHS Video) 10.00 DVD - A Film by Roscoe Hahn, Kent & Brady Lake (KHS Video) 6.00 DVD - Made in Kent, The Fageol Bros. and Twin Coach (KHS Video) 10.00TaxincludedinpriceShippingandHandling10.00 Tax included in price **Shipping and Handling 3.00 Ship To: (Please Print) Total Name: _________________________ _ Address: _________________________ _ Address 2: ________________________ _ City: ____________ State: __ Zip: _________ _ Phone: Email: ____________ _ Payable by Check or Credit Card: Please charge my order to: __ Visa __ MasterCard Credit Card # _________________ Expiration ___ _ Signature: _________________________ _ * Pick-up only **Do not add shipping and handling if you're going to pick up your order at the historical society. J (234 S. Water St.) D Yes I will pick up my order at the historical society D Please ship my order r ~' s Ti me t o Ce l e b r a t e ! You're invited to spend the season with us. We have the accommodations for all of your holiday parties. Make your reservations today. The Pufferbelly's 28th Anniversary week is just around the corner. Be here for our _9lassic anniversary specials December 14·-18. On Sunday, December 20th Santa Cl a u s is corning to town early. Join us for a Brunch wi th Santa and enjoy our Sunday Brunch buffet from 11:00 - 2:30. Corne celebrate Ne w Year s Eve with us. We'll supply the noisemakers , hats and balloons . At midnight we will have a complimentary champagne toast. All you'll need to bring is your resolutions. Don't forget to make your reserv a t i ons . H~PPY HOLIDAYS FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT THE PUFFERBELLY ·i- ~ . ·!- ... ... : .--- ·- · ... ~- \~---~ !~l~ii~:0oi , -~ _1 ,,.-.... r--- --- Kent Historical Society P.O. Box 663 Kent, OH 44240 ,,,,,--.., Nonprofit Organization U.S . Postage Paid Kent, OH Permit #150 Open House The historic Marvin Kent Homestead located at the corrw-------er of Rt. 43 and W. Main St. will be open to the public on Sat rday, March 21 from 2-5. Tours will be hosted by members f the Rockton Masonic :Lodge #316 and are FREE to the public Cof-fee and cookies vv-ill also be served. ) The Kent Historical Society Speaker Series Presents '' All About Kent" Noted educator and author of the newly published book Politician Extraordinaire The Tempestuous Life and Times of Martin L. Davey Will Speak on Former businessman, Mayor of Kent, US Congressman, and Governor of Ohio Tuesday, March 31, 2009 Doors open: 6:30 p.m. - Talk at: 7:00 p.m. Where: The First Christian Church Corner of West Main & Mantua St., Kent, 0 H Light refreshments will be served History of church and tour will follow. Sponsored by the Kent Historical Society 2,34 S. Water St., Kent, OH 330.678.271

    The Kent Historian, Kent Historical Society Newsletter, Number 90, Spring 2017

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    THE KENT HISTORIAN The Newsletter of the Kent Historical Society Spring 2017 Number 90 Questions about Kent's black squirrels answered Local authors share book and activities at KHSM event By Bailey Mulholland Publications Specialist Do you know how the black squirrel came to Kent? Those who attended a Kent Historical Society & Museum event on Feb. 18 learned the history and even some biology of this spunky rodent from local authors Kathy Frazier and Deborah Walker. Frazier and Walker read their book ''And Now You Know Too! The Story of How the Black Squirrel Came to Kent" to an audience of more than 30 children and adults, afterwards engaging in discussion and overseeing a variety of activities. Attendees of all ages enjoyed munching on squirrel-shaped cookies while making bracelets, assembling pipe cleaner squirrels and coloring characters from the book. ''And Now You Know Too!" is available online and at Off the Wagon in Kent. Bonnie Garrett, passionate KHSM benefactor, passes alVay at 85 Bonnie D. (Shepherd) Garrett, 8 5, passed away Feb. 11 in Cin­cinnati, Ohio. She was born July 24, 1931, in Kent, Ohio to Norm and Vivian (Poul­ton) Shepherd. Bonnie was a 1949 graduate of Kent State University High School. Bonnie D. Garrett, a generous supporter of the historical so­ciety, at an event with family. She is sur­vived by her sister, Barbara Meeker of Kent; son, Robert (Judi) Garrett of North Rich­land Hills, Texas; daughter, Linda (Harry) Gurgol of Cincinnati; grandchildren, Chad (Melissa) Garrett of Henderson, Nev., Ali (Andy) Massingill of Little Elm, Texas, and Charles (CJ) Garrett of Atlanta, Ga., Michelle (Brian) Gurgol Spegal of Hebron, Ky. and Sara Gurgol of West Chester, Ohio; great granddaughters, Peyton Massingill of Little Elm, Texas, and twins Gabrielle and Madison Spegal of Hebron, Ky. She is pre-ceded in death by her husband, Charles (Larry) Garrett, and sister, Bette Geiger, of Raleigh, N. C. Bonnie and her husband, Larry, were employed in family businesses. As a newly married couple, they had a 300-acre Here­ford farm north of Ravenna. Then Larry and his father, Robert, built and ran the first motel in Kent; the Eastwood Motel, between Kent and Ravenna. Next, they owned Garrett Asphalt, followed by the Foster Bodman Co. in Akron. Larry was also a pilot for the Davey Compressor Co. and a volunteer sheriff for Portage County. Bonnie enjoyed her family, friends, trav­eling and life at the lake. She grew up in Twin Lakes and spent summers at Muzzy Lake when her family was young. As empty nesters, Bonnie and Larry enjoyed boating with Kent friends at Catawba Island, Lake Erie. They retired to Marco Island, FL. Bonnie was a passionate supporter of the Kent Historical Society Museum. A future gravesite service at Standing Rock Cemetery for Bonnie and Larry will be performed by the Rev. Julie Fisher of the Kent Christ Episcopal Church. Frazier and Walker share their book with local families and answer questions. TRENO RISTORANTE COMING SOON In our next newsletter, learn more about the new Italian restaurant soon to occupy our historic Erie Depot. Join the historical society at the grand opening later this year! Author and adventurer Marvin Kent Curtis One descendent of Marvin Kent honors the interesting life of another By Kasha Legaza-Burton KHS Trustee How do you tell the story of a multi­lingual World War I aviator-turned-pris­oner- of-war who went on to live a grand life as an author, illustrator, a skilled outdoorsman who mentored countless young summer campers, a yachtsman and a globetrotter who rubbed elbows with the famous in 500 words or less? You can't! It's the very reason Missouri resident Mary Jo Johnston created both a Wikipe­dia page and a blog website detailing the adventurous existence of her great-uncle, Marvin Kent Curtis - great-grandson of Marvin Kent, for whom our city is named. Johnston admits with a chuckle that re­searching the life of "Uncle Kent" has been her "passion" for the past two decades! She believes the Chicago-area native's gadabout lifestyle was a result of him being held as a prisoner of war for several months in Germany after the American 148th Aero Squadron bomber he was piloting over France was shot down on Aug. 24, 1918. His killed-in-action death at the age of 27 - a report wired to father Charles E. Curtis from the U.S. War Department (mother, Grace Kent Curtis, died in 1907) KHS Museum Hours 237 E. Main St., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and by appointment. Contact Kent Historical Society 23 7 E. Main St. Kent, Ohio 44240 330-678-2712 Email [email protected] Website www.kentohiohistory.org Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ KentHistoricalSociety - made front-page news in Kent pa­pers. That provided Curtis with a Mark Twain-esque "reports of my death are greatly exaggerated" tale to tell for the next 40 years - and he did! (Record-Courier Editor Roger Di Paolo detailed this period of Curtis' life in a Feb. 1, 2015, "Portage Pathways" column entitled, "Marvin Kent's namesake lived 40 years after his obituary.") Curtis' career as a professional writer was launched in 1920 when he received a 10checkinpaymentfora750wordstorythatwaspublishedinaweeklymagazine.TwoyearslaterwhileteachingFrench,Spanishandhistoryto40boysataremoteprepschoolonCaptivaIsland,Fla.Curtiswonasecondplaceprizeof10 check in payment for a 750-word story that was published in a weekly magazine. Two years later - while teaching French, Spanish and history to 40 boys at a remote prep school on Captiva Island, Fla. - Curtis won a second-place prize of 1,000 in a national writing competition. That's the equivalent of nearly $14,500 in today's dollars! From there Curtis went on to write and illustrate five novels while continuing to author magazine essays. Four of Curtis' books are boys' adventure stories set in places he loved living: the North Woods of Minnesota and the Florida coastal islands. The fifth book, "The Tired Captains," is a historical novel based on a group of World War I pilots. Qohnston and her husband, Kelly, acquired copies of all five novels and graciously donated them to KHS last fall!) During his lifetime, Curtis crossed the Atlantic 2 5 times and the Pacific once. He lived in Paris intermittently throughout the 1920s and it was there, while pur­suing his writing career, that he became acquainted with numerous famous people. One of them, F. Scott Fitzgerald, wrote chat Curtis' "The Blushing Camel" was one of the best boys' books he'd ever read and compared it to works by Hemingway and Twain. Curtis spent more than 30 summers at Camp Mishawaka for boys in Grand Rapids, Minn., serving as a counselor, entertainment director and, eventually, a co-owner. He led 31 "Big Canadian canoe trips" for campers through the Minne­sota- Canada boundary waters and also introduced a sailing program that he ran from 1937 until his death in 1957. Johnston said that at the end of most camp seasons, Curtis would return to his winter home on Captiva Island by sailing Photo: Mary Jo Johnston Marvin Kent Curtis on his sailboat in Miami, FL circa 1934. Curtis was the great-grandson of Marvin Kent and was an accomplished outdoorsman, well-traveled author and favorite counselor at Camp Mishawaka. the Mississippi River from Minnesota to New Orleans. During the 1930s he com­peted annually in a St. Petersburg to Ha­vana sailboat race, captaining his 32-foot yawl "Marelen II" to a first-place finish in 1932 and third place the next year. Many letters inherited by the family, as well as stories gathered by Johnston, reveal that Curtis' vivacious personality made him the center of attention - whether at the yacht dub, aboard a cruise ship, at a Paris soiree or at Camp Mishawaka. A man who knew him from camp wrote, "Kent Curtis was the most unique person I've known. Multi-talented, Kent could do anything but add up a laundry slip: writer (5 books), artist, musician (he played the piano but couldn't read a note), actor, woodsman, cook, sailor, expert in canoe­ing, raconteur par excellence, but through all his talents, the humorist predominat-ed. He was idolized by more boys than anyone else. He was the life of camp and of reunions." To read more detailed stories on the fascinating life and times of Marvin Kent Curtis, visit Johnston's blog website at undekentcurtis.wordpress.com or en.wiki­pedia. org/wiki/Kent_ Curti

    The Kent Historian, Kent Historical Society Newsletter, Number 109, Fall2023

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    Newsletter highlighting recent events and collections of Kent Historical SocietyTHE KENT HISTORIAN The Newsletter ofthe Kent Historical Society Fall, 2023 Number 109 Modern Vision exhibit adds recent Kent history Researchers, local business, KHS, together celebrate mutual effortfor displays By Bengt George KHS Staff Writer When walking through the front doors of our museum, visitors are often taken with the warm, rustic materials that greet them. The ornate wood and brass trim of the house, the vintage glass and ceramic of our pharmacy exhibit, distressed leather above a stone fireplace in our Early Kent room. It all creates the sort of sensory expe­rience one would expect from a history museum. Within these walls, visitors may be surprised to come across space age poly­mer-dispensing displays in durable plastic. This is exactly the case with our latest (in both senses of the word) exhibit. Modern Vision: Liquid Crystal Technol­ogy in Kent is the culmination of months ofwork with both Kent State University's Liquid Crystal Institute (LCI) and local company Kent Displays. We are delighted to continue our preservation of local indus­trial history through to the 21st century, tracing our relationship to technological innova­tion and our continued relevance on the world stage. As President Emeritus Sandra Halem says about the new exhibit, "The reason that Kent is thriving where many small towns are not, is because we keep reinventing ourselves." Liquid crystal dis­plays, most commonly seen in the screens of cell phones and tele­visions, have a long history with the city of Kent. In 1965, Kent State professor Glenn H. Brown established LCI as a cutting-edge research center into various applications of liquid crystals. His colleague and Dr J. William Doane shares his story of of making industrial history in Kent with Liquid Crystal Technology, as Sandy Halem listens. Director of the LCI, J. William Doane, products to this day. Their line of reusable would in 1993 co-found Kent Displays, writing tablets, the Boogie Board, are used which continues to create new commercial See Modern, page 4 Tap Talks emerge from natural elements, local history Unique location brings community through story By Tom Hatch KHS Board Member Before we get to the story ofTap Talks and how this speakers' series has enriched our community, the story of North Water Brewing, the venue at which Tap Talks oc­curs every third Tuesday at 7 pm, is worthy of some ink. Many things came together to make NWB an important Kent landmark. First, there's the North: Located at the northern end ofWater Street, past the Mill, the Art Gallery, Scribble's, Lucci's, Bent Tree Coffee, and the Fairchild Bridge; Don Schjeldahl, chief visionary, calls it the perfect spot. He should know. Don returned to full-time life in Kent after a career as a site selection specialist and industrial economist. Along the way, Don worked for two years finding perfect spots for Sierra Nevada Brewing. According to Don, "This location checked all the boxes: an old under-utilized industrial structure begging for rebirth, on the hike and bike trail, a stone's throw from the Cuyahoga River, in a neighbor- See Talks, page 2 : KENT HISTORICAL SOCIETY " ..• ;t ffi:s~orla,i ­ .'eKent His.tori . · · -~izatI~n ~ 1 tr;~:Ken{ :t .. ce·teht;er; :.• -e"-c~lle~-= /· '.·te{p;r_~t.at~~ ug!i-exhibits, . . · · ·"' n ;~l'l ':anc{acfivities:I£J ~~μ~a~ii~al ,E:i:o·-:.,;' .~. _ · r ;. '.es and civic·: ' t;;: ~--;_ . ' ~ r~!i ~ ..·r;~~ia e~/v1c~l~r~sf -··. ~alJ,~.r,;easu:· ;.~1<:~s~l~r · ~cret . . . < ~•-'/w'. : • : ~~:~~,. ~;;":!';' ·cf bl· :l:l -::~ · • ~.~ :H~~c­ .~ _, .. _.,.. ··eMcKen :}iin ~f~r~ · :;Difector · :{.~ '_.,t,;:fr:~;~ Julie Ken,w9·rthy_ ·;,_. -~htfi~ Kent H{;~oricil Society • •a i3t<~:: .Mdin S~:., K;~t, Ohio 44240 , ·Phhne: \330.;.678::.2;712 . ~ . . ; ­ ·:.. EJJ!.~1:[email protected] .-~\ v~~~it;i~.kentohiohistory.org ·. F«~eb'o~k: ~.facehook.com/ Ke;nt~f~toric~lSoc~:ety · ·.M~e~_J.ID:J::s:.Fridays and · . .Saturoay~,\10 .i·m. rat 2·p.ru.. Also by .app?i~tm~rit. ·1 Talks, from page 1 hood showing signs of revitalization, and part of a resurging Mill District commer­cial street." Get some exercise, grab a beer. Next, there's the Water: Did you know that, because glaciers covering our area left behind deep river valleys and under­ground tunnels of sand and gravel (nature's premier system for filtering water), we have access to some of the best water in North America? Who knew we were walking on interbedded and interlensing sand, gravel, silt and day in buried valleys?* Don did. Finally, there's the Brewing: According to Dylan Hamilton, North Water's master brewer, "Kent's water is as dose to perfec­tion as it gets. Starting with a dean canvas allows me to create exciting beers without the worry ofwater chemistry skewing the results." Ahhh, perfection! Right spot, great beer, so what's missing? It's complicated. Don Schjeldahl's vision for NWB is to build a sustainable business that fosters social, economic, and environ­mental responsibility. His work experience taught him that, in today's world, successful towns grow and prosper when "there's a focus on people, streetscape improvement, and building a lively ascendant downtown." These days, with dime stores gone and pharmacies on every corner except downtown, for­ward-looking central areas feature used bookstores, art galleries, coffee shops, yoga studios, and, yes, microbreweries. Places that foster reflection and conversation. Tap Talks, the speaker's series that focus­es on telling stories of Kent's past, present A K and future, is a natural part of the vision to align culture and community. If you've been to North Water Brewing on a third Tuesday at 7pm in the past year or so, you may have heard the "likely true" story of Captain Brady; the story of Brady Lake as an amusement park; Spiritualist encamp­ment, and mob hangout; how the May 4th site on Kent's campus became a National Landmark; the key role Kent's Historic South End has played in the growth of our city; how we got the Kent Environmental Council, the Wick Poetry Center, Davey Tree Expert Company, Portage Parks, and the Franklin Hotel. Doug Fuller, retired Kent architect and member of the Kent Historical Society Board, is planning a new slate of fasci­nating stories for this coming year. In September, we'll hear about the Davey SEED (Science Employee Education and Development) campus currently under construction at the former Oak Knolls Golf Course. In October, we'll hear about the "Story Mapping" project underway to make in­formation about historic structures in Kent available to building and homeowners and the general public interested in historic preservation. Could there be a talk about the history of Fageol Twin Coach? We're working on it. See Talks, page 3 *Visuals provide brief geology explanation Soil composition, layering, filters water for fine brewing Photo Oose-up Sand Silt Clay ~ ·. Left, comparing size differences between sand, silt, clay--types of soil fo~nd in·K~nt area (good for brew­ing); right, example of interbedding. Don Schjeldahl explains that, because of glacial activity, deep under­ground tunnels of sand and gravel were formed. This natural mixture provides excellent water filtering. Fall 2023 2 Talks, from page 2 We're also working on stories about Kent's Black History, the Williams Brothers Mill, the famous Blue Gill din­ner at Twin Lakes, Native Americans in Franklin Mills, the Silk/Alpaca Mill, and many more. There are lots of stories to tell. Accord­ing to Don Schjeldahl, "Kent is loaded with smart people." Doug adds, "Ifyou come to a Tap Talk, you'll likely learn something you didn't know before and you'll have a chance to sample some great beer." Ifyou have an idea for a Tap Talk, or would like to research any aspect of Kent history, please contact Julie Kenworthy, KHS Director, or Doug Fuller at Kent Historical Society and Museum. We have lots of resources, can point you in the right direction, pair you with a capable speaker if you are shy, and help you create a Tap Talk that will not only spark conversation among your fellow Ken­tites, but will help point you in the right direction, pair you with a capable speak­er if you are shy, and help you create a Tap Talk that will not only spark con- At a Tap Talk in November, 2022, Chas Madonio (above, left, with microphone). local author of"Bars, Bands, and Rock 'n Roll," played to a full crowd. Find upcoming topics at https:1/northwaterbrewing.com/eventsltaptalksl or on KHS Facebook during the second week of each month. Artifact Spotlight By Bengt George KHS StaffWriter Most Kent residents are familiar with the Masonic Center, the palatial brick building on West Main that serves as a destination for the city's Ghost Walk and regular flea markets. Well before its 1923 acquisition by the Rockton Masonic Lodge, the mansion had been constructed in the early 1880s as Marvin Kent's home. While it belonged to the Kent family, the home was visited by multiple US Presidents, who stayed in the guest quarters still dubbed the "President's Room" today. Photos ofthe Masonic Center can be seen in our Early Kent Room at the museum, but the attic holds other artifacts ofthe Masons. This season we've chosen to feature two ofour ornate ceremonial swords, personalized for two notable figures from Kent history. These swords belonged to Hugo Birkner and Lincoln Garrett, evidenced by their engraved names on the blades and scabbards and initials emblazoned on the grips. This type of sword was commonly presented to high-ranking members of Masonic organizations, used not as weapons, but symbolic representations versation among your fellow Kentites, but will help introduce many people to perfect beer. Join us for Tap Talks, every third Thurs­day, at North Water Brewing, at 7 p.m. of their importance to the order. Accompanying these swords is a portrait ofan unknown Mason wielding a similar sword, produced by popular 1870s and 1880s Kent photographer James Wark. The photo shows the kind of ceremo­nial dress and ornaments that complimented the decorative swords in Mason ceremonies. More ofWark's work can be seen throughout our collections, includ­ing those hosted on our website. Though these swords are not cur­rently on display, they serve as beau­tiful reminders ofKent's enduring history and the importance ofpreserving physical artifacts. As always, we invite all commu­nity members to visit our museum during public hours to experience our collections from all eras and corners ofKent society. Remember, our new public hours are Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fall 2023 3 KHS HOLIDAY -"OPEf4 HOUSE\ ­ .SAVE Saturday, the t>ATE December 2nd 10 AM to 1 PM Carolers, .s . > ;:. • ~•••• > •• • • ­ Modern, from page 1 in schools, offices, hospitals, and homes all over the world. On June 29, we had the opportunity to bring together the KHS family, Kent State researchers and Kent Displays staff in celebration of the exhibit's opening. in the community who serve as sources of "living history," contributing to our mis­sion- ofpreservation on a constant basis. The exhibit can be seen alongside all our other displays during public hours on Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can expect to see a variety of LCI photographs and documents, including Doane's official patents on its technological developments. Below this, a large glass case shows the history of Kent Displays' products, from gov­ernment projects to commercial proto­types to the afford­able and accessible products they sell today. :..;..:___ _J Exhibit contributors, families enjoy displays, mood rings and Boogie Boards. We've also aimed Dr. Doane himself addressed attend­ees and shared his first-hand experiences through the events documented in Modern Vision. It's our great fortune to have people to make this our most interactive exhibit to date. There are Boogie Board products to test, mood rings (which contain liquid crystals) to take, and multiple videos Modern Vision interactive exhibit includes vid­eos, LCI photographs, Doane's official patents, video, Kent Displays' products and more to try. explaining the science of liquid crystals to watch. We'd like to thank all of our volunteers, our contacts at LCI and especially Kent Displays for their invaluable help in mak­ing this exhibit a reality. Fall 2023

    The Kent Historian, Newsletter of the Kent Historical Society, Volume 64, Winter 2008

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    THE KENT HISTORIAN Newsletter of the Kent Historical Society HISTORY FEATURE Winter 2008 Number 64 Kent Grows, Changes During the' Great War' of Early 1900s In 1916, the village of Kent was al­ready growing. As noted in Karl H. Grismer' s The History of Kent, he writes: "The entrance of the United States into the World War found Kent well started on the most prosperous period of its history. The growth was due almost entirely to three things­the Kent State Normal School, by then, well established; the Erie shops, which were employing more men than ever be­fore, and the Mason Tire and Rubber Compa-ny ... which spnng into existence al­most overnight and flourished Kent grew, and grew rapidly." On April 6, 1917, the United States declared war on Germany, and Kent, like the rest of the country, was swept up in the war. "Within two weeks after war was declared, 23 Kent men enlisted in the 10th Regiment of the Ohio Na­tional Guard. There were: Frank W. Elgin, Kennerdell E. George, KM. Hass, John H. Jones, J.W. Lackey, Max M. Miller, George H. Moon, George W. Myers, B.J. Sawyer, W. A. Simp­son, I.W. Shanafelt, G.E. Shanley, W.F. Myers, H.C. Strayer, F.W. Ferry, C.J. Weideman, H.P. Boak,C. A. O'Connor, C. C. Cannon, Claude Davis, Ralph '.. Hawk, H.E. Swarthout, and H.D. ~ ilt. A camp was established at Brady Lake where many of the men trained until they left for Camp Sheri-dan, at Montgomery, Ala., on Sunday morning, September 16, 1917." Many war-bond drives were or­ganized from 1917 until the end of the war in 1918. Every war loan was quickly "oversubscribed and every call made by the Red Cross was an­swered generously. Kent meticulously observed the 'heatless days,' the 'meatless days,' and the 'breadless days,' and when sugar and coal were rationed, no one grumbled. The only concern was: 'Bring the boys back safely-and quickly.'" Many young men from Kent were either drafted into the Army or volun­teered to serve. These young men were given the nickname "our boys" by the local newspapers, which in­cluded The Kent Tribune, the Portage County Democrat, and the Ravenna Re­publican. The latter often published some of the letters the soldiers wrote to their families back home. "On June 5, 1917, 726 Kent men were registered for the draft. The first contingent left for Camp Sherman, at Chillicothe, [Ohio], on Thursday, Sept. 20. Thereafter, hardly a month passed until the end of the war without more men leaving to enter the service. "The tragedy of the war was first brought home to the Kent people when it was reported that Clinton Al­len, a graduate of the Kent high school, was injured in France on June 4, 1918. From then on, the casualty lists were read with the greatest dread-no family knew when it would learn that it had lost a son, a brother, or friend." Word of a local soldier's death would often be front­page news, and letters from soldiers became regular features. The Kent Historical Society's new exhibit on the "Great War" features the personal effects of local Kent sol­diers Roscoe Hahn, James Apple and Luther Parmelee. In 1917, Ravenna would establish a training facility for the American Red Cross. Many young women would train to become nurses. Some, like Kent librarian Nel­lie Dingley, volunteered to serve as a nurse in France. Kent, like the rest of the world, also suffered the effects of the world­wide influenza epidemic, or Spanish flu. In October 1918, a small influenza outbreak caused the Kent schools to be closed for a month. As the war wound down, news of its impending armistice continued at home and to the troops overseas. "Then came the false armistice, on Nov. 8, 1918. Kent, like the rest of the nation, celebrated with the wildest abandon. Every whistle in town was blown--bells were rung-work was forgotten. Until late at night the down­town section was thronged with cele­brants. Everyone was determined to have a good time-and everyone did. Verification of reports that the Nov. 8th armistice was only a news­paperman's blunder came like a sick­ening blow. The town, which had ris- See WAR, p. 4. Inside ... Christensen Foundation Grant .... .. . . 2 Loris Troyer Honored .. ... . . . . ..... 2 Gift Shop Featured Item .. ..... ...... 3 Kent Historian First Anniversary .. ..... 3 94 Club ....... .. .... .. ........ . .. 3 New KHS Building Sign .. . . . . . ...... 4 All About Kent Speaker Series ..... . .. 4 KHS Receives Christensen Foundation Grantfor'School Days' Project T he Henry V. and Frances W. Christensen Foundation has awarded the Kent Historical Society a 2,280 grant to help fund a project titled "School Days: Kent, Ohio," an audiovideo/Web site and oral history project about life in the Kent schools. The project will include video oral histories with Kent's senior citi­zens on what their life was like when they were in school, including their experiences during important events in the community. This valuable re­source is part of the Historical Soci­ety's commitment to helping students understand their heritage as well as bridging the generations from chil­dren to seniors. The Historical Society has made education a priority. Each spring the third-grade students in Kent schools study local Kent history, which in­cludes a tour of the Historical Society museum and a chance to see the DVD "Kent: The Early Years." The grant will help purchase a new video and digital camera as well as enhancing the Histor­ical Society's Web site featuring ex­cerpts from the museum's collection. If you would like to help with this project by contributing an oral history, call the Historical Society office for an appointment. Of particular interest are Union/ Central, Longcoy, Holden, Franklin, Walls, Davey, Roosevelt, St. Patrick's, South, University and De­Peyster schools. If you have any per­sonal photographs, documents or news­paper articles you would like to add to the project, these items can be scanned and the originals returned to you. The Historical Society is very grateful to the Christensen Founda­tion for its past assistance in funding the museum's second-floor Children's Learning Center as well as helping to upgrade the building's fire and securi­ty systems. Friends Gather to Honor Loris Troyer 0 n a cold winter day in early December, nearly 40 friends braved the snow for the official dedication of the Loris C. Troyer Library & Archives at the Kent Historical Society museum. Troyer and his wife, Laura, greeted guests in the Visitors Room. Board President Sandy Ha­lem earlier had presented Troyer with the proclamation naming the Archives & Library in his honor at his home on his 94th birthday, October 11, 2008. Troyer was one of the Kent Historical Society President Sandy Halem pre-founding board members of the sents the library-and-archives dedication proclamation Historical Society and has ac- to Loris Troyer. tively promoted the preservation of local history throughout his life. As editor emeritus of the Record-Courier, Troyer began writing his weekly "Portage Path­ways" columns, which later became the basis of the book Portage Pathways, pub­lished by the Kent State University Press in 1998. This wonderful compilation of more than 140 of his most memorable essays and illustrated with historical photographs is available at the Historical Society's Museum Gift Shop. To help support the library and archives with a donation, see the related article on page 3. 2 Kent Historical Society THE KENT HISTORIAN is a quarterly publication of the Kent Historical Society, a nonprofit organization that strives to be the primary Kent history resource and reference center, leading the community in the collection, preservation and inter­pretation of Kent's heritage through ex­hibitions, educational programs and ac­tivities. The society brings educational programs to schools, businesses and civic organizations and collaborates with the Main Street Kent and other historic preservation projects in the community. Board of Trustees Sandra Halem, President Jack Amrhein, Treasurer John Benedik Howard Boyle Scott Flynn Audrey Cielinski Kessler Matt Metcalf Pat Morton Jim Myers Carol Stroble John Wunderle Staff Mary Ann Green, Administrator Newsletter Staff Audrey Cielinski Kessler, Edita, Museum Hours Thursday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Groups and special tours by appointment Direct inquiries to Kent H lstorical Society P.O. Box 663 Kent, OH 44240 330/678-2712 [email protected] www.kentohiohistory.org Winter 2009 Museum Gift Shop Featured Item: Kent and the Great War, The Letters ofLeoBietz A few years ago, Dr. James Best, emeritus professor of political science at Kent State University, donated a collection of letters from Leo Bietz. Bietz drove an ambulance in France in what was known as the "great war." Bietz wrote to his family in Kent, who had taken over his role in running the Imperial Dry Oeaning Co. without him. Bietz returned to Kent and became Kent's postmaster (in the old post office located next to the Kent Historical Society' s office on South Water Street) as well as an active commu­nity leader. The letters in this book were transcribed by Derrick Ranostaj, one of the Historical Soci- , ety' s Kent State University's interns. Ranostaj' s interest in World War I prompted the Histori­L,;,.,..-=== = === ==::;__;.._.., cal Society to help him create the society's exhibit, Kent and the Great War, as well as this book. Volunteer Henry Halem created the book design and helped guide this wonderful little piece of history to publication. As you will note, it is the first book published under the Kent Histor­ical Society Press. Stephen H. Paschen, university archivist at Kent State, described the book: "The World War I letters of Leo Bietz provide not only a rare glimpse of an Amer- --.__.Acan soldier's experiences in wartime but also a snapshot of life in and around Kent, Ohio, during 1918 and 1919. A fascinating collection of letters Leo wrote to family and friends back home is accompanied by letters he received providing the precious news of goings-on in Kent. His letters convey some of the profound awe he experienced as the dramatic global conflict drew to a climax. But the true significance of this collection is personal history. The First World War is viewed through the eyes of one individual and those who knew him. These letters, a collection preserved by the Kent Historical Society, reveal much of what Kent and its people experienced during a war that changed the face of the world." Kent and the Great War, The Letters of Leo Bietz, (Kent Historical Society Press, 143 pages, 15, ISBN 9781607251743); transcribed by Derrick Ranostaj. The Kent Historian Celebrates Its First Year F our seasons have passed since the Kent Historical Society launched its new quarterly newsletter, The Kent Historian. Thanks for all of your posi­tive responses. We especially appreci­ate our board member, Audrey Cie­linski Kessler, who volunteers as our editor and layout specialist. This Winter 2009 issue features a special insert by Dr. John Jacobs. Ja­: obs is not only well known in the ---.._../community for his long history of ser­vice as a caring physician, but he also is a consummate professional who Winter 2009 has helped the Historical Society ar­chive thousands of photographs. He and his wife Jean have helped with identifying the many "anonymous" photographs in the Historical Soci­ety's archives. If you have some local history you would like to research or a perso­nal or family story to share, please let us know. For any photos you want to donate, please identify the people in the picture and the location and date the picture was taken. The photos will be scanned and the orginals returned. '94 Club' to Fund Loris C. Troyer Library & Archives H ave you joined the "94 Oub" yet? You can help create a lasting legacy for the Kent Historical Society archives. The Historical Society started the "94 Oub" to honor Loris C. Troyer on his 94th birthday and to maintain the organization's growing library and archives. The names of those contributing $94 for a listing will be added to a plaque in the library, and a DVD of the dedication will be sent to all do­nors. If you would like to contribute, send your tax-deductible contribution to the Historical Society or call Mary Ann Green for credit-card orders. Contributors will be listed in the spring newsletter. KHS Volunteers in the Spotlight V olunteers in the spotlight for the winter are Christy Schjeldahl (top) and Betty Sweet (bottom). "I look for­ward to my time each month at the KHS. As a transplant to Ohio from Minnesota and Michi­gan , I find it a great way to become acquainted and appre­ciative of Kent's history. I enjoy working with Mary Ann [KHS administrator], who is so posi­tive and encouraging. I thank Betty Sweet, who encouraged me to volunteer." "After my husband Richard's death in 2005, I dis­covered the Kent Histori­cal Society. The people I met were very upbeat and caring. Mary Ann had a friendly way of keeping me busy. I have been living in Kent since 1957, so I do feel at home here. Every time I volunteer, I learn more about Kent's great heritage. 3 WAR Continued from p. 1 en to the pinnacles of ecstasy, sank into the depths of gloom. But not for long. The real armistice came on No­vember 11, and this time the people waited until the after­noon to celebrate. Mayor (Martin) Davey, Dr. J. H. Hull and Dr. M.J. Slutz addressed a crowd which gathered at the public square. A parade formed, which was headed by E.O. Carlin's hearse, in which there was an effigy of the Kaiser. The band played, the fire trucks fell into line, and so did scores of automobiles and hundreds of celebrants who walked. Later, part of the procession went on to Ra­venna to show that town how Kent greeted the fall of Prussian militarism." The Historical Society hop·es its exhibit will give the viewer a sense of how that World War I affected Kent and the men and women who served the country and the Kent community. Source: This article is a verbatim excerpt from The History of Kent by Karl H. Grismer, Chapter XI (pages 109-110), copyright 1932. Welcome 2009! The Kent Historical So­ciety has a new sign in front of the Soci­ety office at 234 S. Water Street to wel­come visitors and give the hours the of­fice is open to the public . Remember that tours for grou. s can always he scheduled by appointment. Kent Historical Society P.O. Box 663 Kent, OH 44240 KHS Announces 2009 'All About Kent' Speaker Series '--"' T he first speaker in the Kent Historical Society's 2009 All About Kent Speaker Series is Portage County his­torian Wayne Enders. His presentation will begin at 7 p.m. on February 9 at the historic Marvin Kent residence, now home of the Masonic Center ( corner of Mantua and West Main streets). Enders will present highlights of people and events in Kent and Portage County between 1850 and 1900. When he spoke as part of the series last year, Enders talked about people and events prior to 1850. Enders, a lifelong resident of Ravenna Township, is the author of Connecticut Western Reserve, State of Ohio, County of Portage Timeline 1669-2007. Copies of the book will be available and will be signed by the author. Guests will be met at the front door by Marvin and Maria Kent (portrayed by Bruce and Nancy Hansford). On behalf of the Rockton Lodge 316, they will provide a tour of their former home along with members of the Portage County Historical Society, also in period costumes. Jeffrey Jones will play period music on a dulcimer. Pictures of a sleigh once owned by the Kent family and reconstructed by the Portage County Historical Society will be on dis­play along with archival photos from the period as­sembled from the KHS archives by John and Jean Jacobs. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. For more informatio:1, caB the KI-IS office. Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Kent, OH Permit #150 Kent Historical Society-Where History Comes Alive! 4 Winter 200

    The Kent Historian, Kent Historical Society Newsletter, Number 82, Winter/Spring 2014

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    THE KENT HISTORIAN The Newsletter of the Kent Historical Society Winter/Spring 2014 Number82 Town and Garden Tour returns June 7, 8 Kent is an eclectic mix of old and new, of past and present. In June, residents will have a special oppor­tunity to see this up close. 1he Kent Historical Society will host the Town and Garden Tour on June 7 & 8, with a special sponsors night party on June 6. The tour will include a variety of unique historic homes, gardens, and buildings in the down­town and the West Main Street area. It will also feature unique urban living spaces at Acorn Corner. Tickets will be 20andwillbeonsaleatvar­iouslocationsdowntownandatthehistoricalNew1nuseu1nexhibitrecallssummertimefunatlakeparksOncetoutedas"OhiosMostPerfectPlay­ground,"BradyLakeParkwasopened123yearsagoonJune11,1891,byA.G.Kent.Thelocalattractionwasonceoneofabout50amusementparksinOhioandwasapopu­larlakefrontresortduringtheheightofitssuc­cess.Butverylittleremainstodaytoremindpeopleofthefunandentertainmentitonceprovidedforsomany.TheKentHistoricalSocietyMuseumislaunchingafun,newinteractiveexhibitthisspring,"FunintheSummertime,"chatwillallowvisitorstorevelintheeraofthelakesideparksthatusedtodrawsomanytothearea.Theexhibitopeningcoincideswiththecom­pletionofDr.FredEndreslatestdocumentaryfilm,"SeancesandSlotMachines:TheStoryofBradyLakePark."EndresisaretiredprofessorintheSchoolofJournalismandMassCommu­nicationatKentStateUniversity."SeancesandSlotMachines"willbeshownonlocalPBSsta­tionsthissummer.AmusementparksbegantoappearinAmer­icainthe1870s.Theyenjoyedtheirbiggestgrowthspurtinthel890s,whenurbandwellerslookedforexcitementandanescapefromthedirtandnoiseofthecity.Attheirpeakinthe1920s,therewereabout1,800localSeeExhibit,page2societymuseum.Thetourwillbeheldfrom11a.m.to5p.m.June7andfromnoonto5p.m.June8.ProceedsfromtheeventwillsupporttheKentHistoricalSocietyseffortscorestoretheexteriorofthehistoricErieDepot.June7thisalsotheArtandWineFestivaldowntown.CarolStrobleandDawnCarpen­ter,tourcochairs,arethrilledwiththesupportthecommunityalreadyhasshownfortheevent."DawnandIaresopleasedthatwehadsuchapositiveresponsewhenweapproachedtheownerstobepartofthetour,"Stroblesaid."WearedelightedthatwehavesuchawidevaSandyHalemresignsaspresi­dentofKHSboardoftrustees.JackAmrheintappedtoleadKHSboard.Seestories,page3rietyofsites,andwechinkthepeoplewhogoonthetourwillenjoybeingabletoexplorethehistoricbuildingsofKent."Manyvolunteersfromthecommunitywillbeneededtoensurechisisasuccessfulevent,andfurtherinformationaboutvolunteeringisenclosedinthismailing.Tourbookletswillserveaseachparticipantstickettothevenuesonthetour.Thefullcolorsouvenirbookletfeaturesapictureofeachloca­tionanditshistory.AmongthesitesconfirmedforthetourareSeeTour,page5Thenew"FunintheSummertimeExhibit"attheKHSMuseumfeaturesvintagegames,memorabiliaandartifactsfromvariouslakesideamusementsparksinOhio,includingBradyLakePark.Inside...Authorsatopenhouse2FriendssaluteHalem3""4GettoknowAmrhein3Firedestroyedstorein1912.52. /;).,..".KentHistoricalSocietyTheKentHistorianisaquarterlypublicationoftheKentHistoricalsociety,anonprofitorganizationthatstrivestobetheprimaryKenthistoryresourceandreferencecen­ter,leadingthecommunityinthecollection,preservationandinterpretationofKentsheritagethroughexhibits,educationalprogramsandiqivities.Thesocietyofferseducapn1rc::r:1.1"I.vtoschools,busiorganizations,VicePresidentessler,SecretaryoothBoyleio44i40.3.,2712Facebookhtrps:I1ww.ˇfacebook.com/K ntHistoricalSocietyDirector:Fundraiser,openhouseperfectendtogreatyearByThomasHatch,KHSdirectorIn2013,forthefirsttime,KHSsponsoredacommunitywidelocalauthorbooksiginingatourDecemberHolidayOpenHouse.AuthorspresentwerePaulBauerandMarkDawidziak,DavidHassler,CharlieThomasandPatrickOConnor,RogerDiPaolo,BruceDzeda,BeerySweet,andDr.JohnJacobs.Proceedsfromtheeventwereinexcessof20 and will be on sale at var­ious locations downtown and at the historical New 1nuseu1n exhibit recalls summertime fun at lake parks Once touted as "Ohio's Most Perfect Play­ground," Brady Lake Park was opened 123 years ago on June 11, 1891, by A.G. Kent. The local attraction was once one of about 50 amusement parks in Ohio and was a popu­lar lakefront resort during the height of its suc­cess. But very little remains today to remind people of the fun and entertainment it once provided for so many. The Kent Historical Society Museum is launching a fun, new interactive exhibit this spring, "Fun in the Summertime," chat will allow visitors to revel in the era of the lakeside parks that used to draw so many to the area. The exhibit opening coincides with the com­pletion of Dr. Fred Endres' latest documentary film, "Seances and Slot Machines: The Story of Brady Lake Park." Endres is a retired professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Commu­nication at Kent State University. "Seances and Slot Machines" will be shown on local PBS sta­tions this summer. Amusement parks began to appear in Amer­ica in the 1870s. They enjoyed their biggest growth spurt in the l 890s, when urban dwellers looked for excitement and an escape from the dirt and noise of the city. At their peak in the 1920s, there were about 1,800 local See Exhibit, page 2 society museum. The tour will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 7 and from noon to 5 p.m. June 8. Proceeds from the event will support the Kent Historical Society's efforts co restore the exterior of the historic Erie Depot. June 7th is also the Art and Wine Festival downtown. Carol Stroble and Dawn Carpen­ter, tour co-chairs, are thrilled with the support the community already has shown for the event. "Dawn and I are so pleased that we had such a positive response when we approached the owners to be part of the tour," Stroble said. "We are delighted that we have such a wide va- • Sandy Halem resigns as presi­dent of KHS board of trustees. • Jack Amrhein tapped to lead KHS board. See stories, page 3 riety of sites, and we chink the people who go on the tour will enjoy being able to explore the historic buildings of Kent." Many volunteers from the community will be needed to ensure chis is a successful event, and further information about volunteering is enclosed in this mailing. Tour booklets will serve as each participant's ticket to the venues on the tour. The full-color souvenir booklet features a picture of each loca­tion and its history. Among the sites confirmed for the tour are See Tour, page 5 The new "Fun in the Summertime Exhibit" at the KHS Museum features vintage games, memorabilia and artifacts from various lakeside amusements parks in Ohio, including Brady Lake Park. Inside ... Authors at open house 2 Friends salute Halem 3""4 Get to know Amrhein 3 Fire destroyed store in 1912 . · 5 2 '.~/;)-\:.,. .· · ".Kent Historical Society TheKent Historian is a quarterly publication of the Kent Historical ·society, a nonprofit organization that strives to be the primary Kent history resource and reference cen­ter, leading the community in the collection, preservation and inter- -pretation of Kent's heritage through exhibits, educational programs and 'iqivities. The society offers educa- - pn-1rc::r:1.1"I'.v to schools, busi-organizations, Vice President ·essler, Secretary' ooth Boyle io44i40 . ' 3.,2712 Facebook htrps:I 1ww\v.facebook.com/ · K~ntHistoricalSociety Director: Fund-raiser, open house perfect end to great year By Thomas Hatch, KHS director In 2013, for the first time, KHS sponsored a community-wide local author book sigining at our December Holiday Open House. Authors present were Paul Bauer and Mark Dawidziak, David Hassler, Charlie Thomas and Patrick O 'Connor, Roger Di Paolo, Bruce Dzeda, Beery Sweet, and Dr. John Jacobs. Proceeds from the event were in excess of 1 ,400 with a good portion of that going to support the mission of Kent Historical Society. KHS also raised 3,500inouryearendannualfunddrive.ThesupportthatKentiteshaveshownwillgoalongwaytohelpusexpandourreachevendeeperintothecommunity.Bigchallengesstillfaceusin2014,mostespeciallythecompletionoftheexteriorrenovationattheErieDepot.Also,lookforanexcitingnewexhibitsettoopeninMaycelebratinglocalamusementparkfun,and,inJune,theHouseandGardenTourfeaturingurbangardensanduniquelivingspacesrighthereinKent.BesuretostopbytovisityourKenthistorymuseum,rideournewelevator,andenjoythenewBonnieGarrettexhibitgallery,whereyoucanexperienceMainandWaterstreetsthroughtheages.Exhibit,frompage1parksinthecountry.ThereweredozensofcheminNorthernOhio,somesmall,somehuge.Theyofferedswimming,picnics,rides,gamesandconcessionsforthousandsoffami­liesatmodestprices.Bythe1960s,allbutafewhadgoneoutofbusiness.OriginallyBradyLakeParkfeaturedadancehall,summertheater,bathhouses,picnicareas,asteamboatandrowboats.Despitearainyopeningday,almost2,000peopleturnedout.Whenthestreetcarlinewasextendedin1901fromKenttoRavennaviaBradyLake,thousandsrodetheinterurbanfromAkronandotherSummitCountyareastothepark,accordingtohistorianLorisTroyer.ThepopularityoftheparkgrewandeventuallyattractedvisitorsfromthroughoutOhioandwesternPennsylvania.Onepicnicattracted10,000visitors.A.G.Kent,whoalsowasthefounderofGeaugaLakeAmusementPark,soldtheresorttotheSpiritualistsin1892.AfternineyearsofoperationbytheSpiritualists,Endressaid,theoperationwaslosingmoneyandwasauctionedoff.In1906,theparkwaspurchasedbyagroupfromEastLiverpool,whichoperateditfor20years.Duringthisperiodmanynewridesandattractionswereadded.RavennarealestatedeInDecember,KHSsponsoredalocalauthorbooksigning.Proceedswereinexcessof3,500 in our year-end annual fund drive. The support that Kentites have shown will go a long way to help us expand our reach even deeper into the community. Big challenges still face us in 2014, most especially the completion of the exterior renovation at the Erie Depot. Also, look for an exciting new exhibit set to open in May celebrating local amusement park fun, and, in June, the House and Garden Tour featuring urban gardens and unique living spaces right here in Kent. Be sure to stop by to visit your Kent history museum, ride our new elevator, and enjoy the new Bonnie Garrett exhibit gallery, where you can experience Main and Water streets through the ages. Exhibit, from page 1 parks in the country. There were dozens of chem in Northern Ohio, some small, some huge. They offered swimming, picnics, rides, games and concessions for thousands of fami­lies at modest prices. By the 1960s, all but a few had gone out of business. Originally Brady Lake Park featured a dance hall, summer theater, bath houses, picnic areas, a steam boat and rowboats. Despite a rainy opening day, almost 2,000 people turned out. When the streetcar line was extended in 1901 from Kent to Ravenna via Brady Lake, thousands rode the interurban from Akron and other Summit County areas to the park, according to historian Loris Troyer. The popularity of the park grew and eventually attracted visitors from throughout Ohio and western Pennsylvania. One picnic attracted 10,000 visitors. A.G. Kent, who also was the founder of Geauga Lake Amusement Park, sold the resort to the Spiritualists in 1892. After nine years of operation by the Spiritualists, Endres said, the operation was losing money and was auctioned off. In 1906, the park was purchased by a group from East Liverpool , which operated it for 20 years. During this period many new rides and attractions were added. Ravenna real estate de- In December, KHS sponsored a local author book signing. Proceeds were in excess of 1,400, which will help support the mission of Kent Historical Society. The Brady Lake Park opened in 1891 and remained in operation until the late 1940s, when it deteriorated into a gambling and nightclub resort. veloper, Don Wilson Sr., rook over the park in the late 1920s and led it during its "golden age," Endres said. The park eventually featured a figure-eight roller coaster, a carousel and a midway. Camp­sites and summer cottages were developed. Big-name bands and acts performed, includ­ing Cab Calloway and Rudy Vallee. Unusual acts were brought in to draw larger crowds in­cluding "aerial daredevils ," rodeos and horse swimming acts. Bingo was added in 1938. In 1942, the park was sold to a group of Cleve­landers, who changed the focus to gambling, which ultimately led to its closing in late 1949- 50. Winter/Spring 2014 Sandy Halem steps down as KHS president By Sandra Halem This January, I retired from the presidency and board of the Kent Historical Society. fu I look back, I remember so much of the his­tory, both institutional and personal, that has made this 40-year partnership so gratifying. I was cleaning out my files and came across an interview in the Record-Courier from May 1977 which began with the following paragraph: "Keeping Kent history alive is Sandra Halem's hobby, a hobby that is keep­ing her quite busy lately. Sandy and members of the Kent Historical Society are preparing to restore the Kent Railway Station." At that time, I was a producer and writer in the Television Services Department at Kent State University, creating programming for the newly opened PBS station Channels 45/49. Our daughter, Jessica, was three years old and my husband, Henry, was building the glass program within the Kent State Art De­partment from the ground up. His academic appointment at Kent State was the reason we had come to Kent in the summer of 1969. We were newly married and anxious to find a place to call home. Loris Troyer, then editor of the Record­Courier, had met my husband and I during a 1970 Town/Gown meeting held following the tragic events of May 4th on the Kent State campus. At that first meeting, Loris learned of my love of history and convinced Henry and I that Kent was a great place to live and raise a family. It was the beginning of a friendship that would last more than 40 years until his death in 2011. Loris submitted my name to the Kent His­torical Society Board ofTrustees in 1974. I would be replacing John Carson, who was leaving to serve as county commissioner. I was 30 years old and would serve as the first woman, still unusual for membership on boards of trustees. John Flynn also was ap­pointed at the same time, and Howard Boyle would join in 1977 as the board sought to engage younger members with skills that would help in our 10-year quest to preserve the Erie Depot. See Halem, page 6 KHS board members in the spotlight Amrhein new KHS board president Retired teacher has served on KHS trustees board since 1997 Jack Amrhein joined the Kent Historical So­ciety Board of Trustees in 1997 after being asked by then-superintendent Marc Crail to represent the school district. Amrhein began his education career in 1980, teaching at Davey Junior High, Stanton Mid­dle School and Theodore Roosevelt High School before retiring in 2013. He also serves on Kent City Council representing Ward 2. This is his second term. Amrhein moved to Kent in 1976. He gradu­ated from Kent State University in 1980 and fell in love with the city and decided to make it his home, he said. Amrhein and his wife, Claudia, who is the general manager of P ARTA, have two sons, Joshua and Matthew and a daughter-in-law, Raquel, who is married to Matthew. Amrhein said chat although he has big shoes to follow in caking the reins from Sandy, he said he has learned valuable skills from her. "Sandy has taught me to go with my gut in­stinct and she has taught me to listen to oth­ers," Amrhein said. "She has also taught me to think outside the box." Amrhein said he always had a deep interest in history and pop culture and has had the Winter/Spring 2014 "privilege and good fortune to work in the Kent Schools for some 33 years teaching those subjects." Amrhein's avid interest in pop culture helps him to better understand what Kent was like during the 1900s and how it has affected the community as we know it today. He hopes to continue to share his love of the topic by hosting pop culture presentations for the community in the near future. He said his main goal, though, is to continue on the same track char Sandy has taken, adding that education, membership and preservation are his top priorities as board president. "History is important because WE ARE the past: we are the sum of all the events - good, bad, and indifferent - chat have happened to us. This sum product guides our actions in the present," he said. Amrhein said he encourages people to get in­volved with KHS to support the mission of ed­ucation and preservation and to assist with the ongoing renovation and maintenance of KHS museum's new permanent location at 237 E. Main St. The museum has been located in the historic Kem home for nearly three years. Am­rhein wants people to learn to know and love the museum like he does. "The Kent Historical Society is the caretaker of the city's past. I love it," Amrhein said. Sandy Halem resigned in January as president of the Kent Historical Society Board of Trustees. Jack Amrhein has been selected as the new president of the board. See story, below. Friends look back at Halem's contributions Booth JEANBOOTI-1 KHS Board member I have only known Sandy well since I started volun­teering at the Kent His­torical Society a few years ago. Over the years we have spent a lot of time in basements, attics and storage rooms finding and preserving histori­cally significant Kent artifacts. With Sandy everything is fun no matter if it was a dirty project like pulling weeds; a tedious one like folding newsletters or a scary one like climbing down rickety basement stairs (at our new mu­seum) to a damp dungeon (at our old museum on Water Street.) A growing vibrant museum is Sandy's legacy to Kent Historical Society. Al­though Sandy has resigned from the board we expect that she will continue to share her en­thusiasm, sense of humor and joy in life with all of us. See Friends, page 4 3 Halem from page 3 ROGER DI PAOLO Historian, author, editor "(Sandy's) like a force of nature ... a whirlwind of energy and ideas, but al­ways with a focus. She's a great motivator. People enjoy working with her because she brings a sense of fun to whatever needs to be done. She decided it was time that I had writ- Di Paolo ten a book and she did so much to make it happen. "Rooted in Kent" would not exist without Sandy and Henry. We started talking about "doing a book" in June, she promised me that if I did what she told me to do, it would be ready by the holidays. I did, and we published it in early December 2009. We sold 500 copies by Christmas." BECKY DUNLAP KHS board member For countless years I have accompanied Longcoy's third-graders on their walking tours of the city of Kent. One of the students' fa­vorite stops was the Kent Historical Society Museum. Sandy (or Mrs. Halem to the stu­dents) would captivate and amaze her 9-year­old audiences (and the parent chaperones) with stories of Franklin Mills, early pioneers, etc., and show students some of the many interest­ing artifacts housed in the museum (including Martin L. Davey's desk from his time as gover­nor, antique wedding dresses, an early letter with a Franklin Mills postmark, Haymaker family tree quilt, etc.) She made Kent's history come alive year after year with the kind of enthusiasm a gifted teacher wishes to instill in her students. Sandy's eyes would shine and glow as she shared the gift of the Kent Historical Society Museum. Ending the tours, she would sit at the player piano, pop in a roll of music, and her feet would pedal to power the music that would have students swaying to the beat as we exited the museum. Thank you Sandy, on behalf of all the chil­dren you have helped educate on the rich and varied history of Kent, Ohio! AUDREY C. KESSLER KHS board secretary I remember the time after I first came on the KHS board and Sandy asked me to be the per­son to do the newsletter. We met about starting up the publication. I was impressed with Sandy's vast knowledge of Kent history. She knew the information in such depth and detail. She had ideas for the newsletter but was open to my suggestions as well, including content and the name of the newsletter. Her enthusi- 4 asm for the project also increased my excite­ment about the work ahead. I felt honored to be working with her and being able to tap her expertise and wisdom about Kent history and how that history could be expressed through the newsletter. SCOTT FLYNN KHS board vice president Everyone knows that Sandy was a tireless and passionate leader of KHS, but what I'll miss most is the sense of humor Sandy brought to KHS. She and Henry are a hilarious couple. You never know what will come out of Sandy's mouth next, which is Flynn part of the reason the KHS board is going to miss her so much. Sandy joined the board in '74, and left in '84. She rejoined the board in '94 and became president in '04, only to leave now in '14. I'm looking forward to her return in 2024. TOM HATCH KHS Director The entire Kent community has been fortu­nate for Sandy Halem's leadership of the Kent Historical Society and Museum over the past 10 years. Sandy's vision and articulate advocacy has brought us acclaim and growth as she ably helped us achieve our goal of collecting and telling the important story of Kent's history and keeping it accessible for future generations. KASHA LEGEZA-BURTON KHS board member I always assumed histori­cal societies were stuffy. And history? Never much cared for the subject during my school days. Then I met local-history dynamo Sandy Halem - and everything changed! In 2009 Sandy recruited my husband, Jona Burton, and me to volunteer as de- Legeza-Burton signer and editor, respectively, for our mutual friend Roger Di Paolo's book, "Rooted in Kent: 101 Tales from the Tree City." We (along with many others) worked great together as a team to get a fantastic book published on a very tight deadline. And I was hooked on local history - and the Kent His­torical Society! Not long thereafter, Sandy encouraged me to join the KHS Board of Trustees - yet another volunteer job I simply couldn't resist because of her never.:.ending examples of energy, enthusi­asm and a heartfelt commitment to the preser-vation and promotion of Kent history. Sandy's youthful spirit permeates every as­pect of KHS - and it's the reason I constantly find myself encouraging younger friends to join our local history family with the catchphrase, "We're not your grandmother's historical soci­ety!" MATT METCALF KHS board treasurer Sandy's knowledge of the Kent community, its people and history will be impossible to re­place. The size and the incredible state of our mu­seum is a direct result of her years of hard work and dedication to the Kent Historical Society. And now that she is no longer volunteering on our projects, she better learn to keep her check­book ready. JIM MYERS KHS board member Sandy, more than any­one in the history of our organization, has PUSHED us to do more and do better as a group, encouraging others and relying on the skrns of others to make it happen. We should all be grateful for her being interested in the history of her adopted Myers home town. Since I as one of the founders of the KHS, have seen her ac­complishments make others, who like myself have helped along the way, seem "pale by com­parison" to what Sandy has done for us. The "latch of Hatch," that is the hiring of Tom Hatch, has taken us to a new higher level! CAROL SfROBLE KHS board member I first met Sandy about seven years ago when I stopped in the historical society when it was on Water Street. There had been an article in the paper about the society looking for new board members. So when I stopped in to inquire about the open- Stroble ing and to check out the place (I had never been there before), I met Sandy for the first time. I was so impressed and inspired by her en­thusiasm for the society, her love of the history of Kent and her passion for preserving it, I just knew I wanted to be a part of this group! I know we will all miss her constant presence there, but she can be reassured that she has been an inspiration to many others who will carry on her work. Winter/Spring 2014 From the pages of history Fire destroyed Longcoy grocery 102 years ago Store operated next day, was rebuilt after Feb. 1912 disaster The following is reprinted from a story in the Ju61 30, 1952, edition of The Record-Courier as the store shuttered its doors cifter 87 years of operation in Kent. In 1865 The Civil War had just ended when a new grocery store and meat business was started in Kent. Today, after 87 years' continuous service to the community under the same name, the store has gone out of business. The Longcoy grocery store is no more. The store that has carried the name "Longcoy" for 87 years, serving many of the old-time Kentites, has sold its stock and fixtures. *** THE STORE was started in 1865 by David Longcoy with his twin sons, Frank and Francis as partners. It continued that way until 1876 when Frank pulled out and went to Iowa. Soon afterward, the market was moved from its original location at the corner of Main and River Sts. to 124 S. Water St. Frank returned to Kent in 1889 and, with his brother, handled the store until 1902. Then, Harry C. Longcoy, son of Frank, bought the store along with WA. Sparror. It was during the tenure of these owners that disaster struck. Early Sunday morning on Lincoln's birthday in 1912 fire broke out and destroyed the store. H.C. Longcoy, aided by his employees, worked all day obtaining a new stock and business was resumed as usual Monday morning in an adjoining room. In 1917 Harry Longcoy bought out Sparror's interest and became sole owner. He continued in possession until 1946 when he sold to Harry De Voe, who operated the store for a year and a half under the Longcoy name. *** ON DECEMBER 1, 1947, David B. Longcoy, cousin of Harry Longcoy, bought the store and carried on in the family tradition until July 19. That date was the last business Tour, from page 1 the Masonic Temple, the Clapp-Woodward House (KHS Museum), the Franklin Hotel, the May Prentice House (new home of the Wick Poetry Center), the former Lilac Gardens of Daisy Wolcott, and several other gardens and historic homes where prominent figures from Kent's early days lived. One of the featured houses is the home and Winter/Spring 2014 A fire in 1912 destroyed the Longcoy grocery store at 124 S. Water St. It was rebuilt and continued operating until 1952. day for the Longcoy grocery. H. C. Longcoy expressed a desire and a hope that the store could have continued for 100 years. But in this modern day of constant change and movement, tradition has been overcome by practicality. Dave, whose health was the primary reason for the selling, said, "It was unfortunate that it fell to me to end the st
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