Cuyahoga Falls has Chicago skinned in a dozen ways. So
proclaimed an early resident of the city whose premier
location on the mighty Cuyahoga River gave the town its name,
its livelihood, and its soul. A small town that realized its big
potential early on, Cuyahoga Falls became a center of industry
and recreation throughout the state of Ohio. Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
explores the town's founding in 1812, its growth into an industrial
powerhouse, and its current focus on downtown urban renewal.
Within the boundaries of their original two-mile square
settlement, the lives of the early citizens of Cuyahoga Falls were
inextricably intertwined with the majestic river. They recognized
and harnessed its tremendous potential as it tumbled over a series
of falls. Local economies flourished as paper, flour, wool, stone, and
wood were milled using the immense force of the water, estimated
to contain the power of 3,460 horses. Local inhabitants and visitors
alike were drawn to nearby Silver Lake to enjoy scenic steamboat
cruises, fish the waters, ride the roller coaster, and enjoy the graceful
parks that lined its shores.