Akron, Ohio
The city of Akron derives its name from a Greek word meaning “summit.” At around 1,000-feet-above sea level, it is the highest point on the Erie Canal system. It is also located in northern Ohio where the real snow awaits you, so grab your snowshoes as you head for this delightful City. With so much to do, those moving to Akron will be pleasantly surprised.
Economy:
The business and economic climate currently prevailing in Akron, Ohio makes it the ideal area for growing businesses. Perhaps you are considering moving to Akron – if so you will be delighted to know that the city is home to more than 21,000 businesses including more than 150 Fortune 500 firms. The immediate region beyond it boasts leading-edge research too, and in the fields of liquid crystal and polymer development as well (the latter industry employing over 16,000 employees). Akron also proudly claims to be the nation’s leading manufacturer of plastic processing equipment. Akron hospital plays an important role in the local community, ranking among the 50 best in the United States.
History:
Rated as the fifth largest city in Ohio, and laying claim to the County Seat of Summit County, Akron is also known as “Tire” or “Rubber City.” Simon Perkins founded the City in 1825. One of Akron’s best known industries, cereal production, was started in 1854. A group of newspapermen established the Akron Toy Company in 1883, and the clay marble was one of the first popular toys to be produced. Balloons were to follow, as were rubber balls, ducks and dolls. Akron’s history was closely linked to the development of the rubber industry in the area and was indirectly responsible for Akron’s pioneering of the American trucking industry. Indeed, for a time Akron rated as the fastest growing City in America with a population more than tripling between 1910 and 1920. In 1923, Goodyear subsidiary Zeppelin began designing a new airship, but the crashing of the “Akron” followed 4 years later in the mid-1930s by her sister ship the “Macon” saw a move away from rigid airship design and a move towards the production of “blimps.” The Akron rubber industry witnessed a major decline in the 1970s and 1980s.
Tourism:
If you are considering moving to Akron, Ohio, and you want to know more about what is on offer by way of attractions. Well, the likes of Hower House, a family mansion steeped in history, await the lucky tourist in Akron – it is like going back in a time capsule and sparks the imagination. More culture needed? Why not try the Akron Civic Theatre fashioned after a Moorish castle and flaunting Mediterranean décor with grand sculptures. Then there is the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum which features interactive hands-on displays and exhibits imploring the visitor to explore and discover. If you are looking for world class sport then look no further than the Firestone Country Club with no less than three regulation golf courses, each with eighteen holes. The South Course annually hosts the PGA Tour’s NEC World Series of Golf. For more outdoors and plenty of animals, visit the Akron Zoological Park, an accredited conservation zoo and aquarium with a difference.
Colleges/Universities:
• Brown Mackie College — Akron
• University of Akron
• The University of Akron School of Law
Interesting Facts:
• Akron can lay claim to the first hamburgers and ice cream cones – thanks to inventor Charles E. Menches.
• And not forgetting the importance of breakfast, the first cereal was served in Akron – today the product carries the name “Quaker Oats.”
• Akron is regarded as the birthplace of trucking.
• In 1935 “Dr Bob” and “Bill W” founded Alcoholics Anonymous in Akron.
• Keeping an eye on the straight and narrow, Akron sported the first automobile police wagon in 1899.
Helpful Links:
• Akron Real Estate
• Akron Dental Offices
• Akron Insurance
• Akron Box Companies
• Akron Moving Guide