Walk the Grounds of 3 Historic Ohio Homes
These three landmark properties have long histories and beautiful outdoor areas that visitors can experience.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens • Akron
Former home to F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., Stan Hywet Hall’s name comes from the Old English for “stone quarry,” and one was once located where the property’s lagoon is today. The 70-acre grounds span restored historic gardens and the landmark Birch Tree Allee. The elegant estate also serves as a backdrop for outdoor yoga during the summer, an annual Father’s Day car show and performances by the Ohio Shakespeare Festival. No visit is complete without a tour of the 64,500-square-foot manor house — the sixth-largest home open to the public in the U.S. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron 44303, 330/836-5533, stanhywet.org
Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums • Fremont
President Rutherford B. Hayes and first lady Lucy Webb Hayes believed in the restorative powers of nature. Walk the peaceful grounds of the couple’s tree-filled Fremont estate, which is also an accredited arboretum due to its mix of 100 types of woody plants and plant-related programs. There’s also a rose garden, wildflowers and an abundance of squirrels that delight younger visitors. A fun and educational Squirrel Doors hunt begins June 24 and teaches why the animals would choose a particular tree in the grove to use as shelter. Paved paths traverse the property for visitors, who can also tour the home and visit the on-site museum. Spiegel Grove, Fremont 43420, 419/332-2081, rbhayes.org
Bryn Du Mansion • Granville
The grounds of Bryn Du Mansion span 52 acres, but 30 of them comprise the Great Lawn, which plays host to special events the public can attend. Purchased by the village of Granville in 2003, the estate was home to a string of families who renovated and added to the property, including its last owner, Dave Longaberger, founder of the Longaberger Co. The Bryn Du Art Show is held each March. In spring, the parking lot and field house are the sites of Taste of Granville. Summer brings polo matches that are open to the public. The matches are free, but some benefit charities and donations are appreciated. 537 Jones Rd., Granville 43023, 740/587-7053, bryndu.com
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