Nov 01

Shopping Center Stories 1956-1961

From 1956 to 1961, the developers of Glenwood Acre’s,  Cleveland Realtor, Joseph Porath and builder, Harold Aronston attempted to build Twinsburg’s first Shopping Center, “Summit Shopping Town.” A 75-store, 16-million-dollar shopping center in Twinsburg.

It featured a moving stairway to carry shoppers from store to store; a circular building in the center to house a central package pickup, and air curtains instead of doors. The 60-acre site was planned for the east side of Rt. 14, about one mile south of Richmond Road.

In 1961, the project had grown to a million sq. feet. The City Council rejected the proposed zoning changes and gave the project a final No. The property was then purchased by Milton Wolf of Cleveland Developers with plans to develop a smaller Shopping Center.

Oct 01

This story is about the 30-year-long process of developing Birchwood Hills.

In 1964, developer Alex Seigler & Son, who built “Southgate,” came to Twinsburg with plans to build a 30-store shopping center between Routes 82 and 14. Their plan included 150 apartments, 100 new homes, a service station, a 100-room motel, a 50-room medical office building, and a 100-seat restaurant. Construction was to start in 1965.
1974/1975 Phase 1 of Birchwood Hills began with homes built on Ashdale and a short section of Birchwood and White Oak Drive.
In 1976, the City’s Sewer Treatment Plant had become too small for its needs. During the summer rainy season, the amount of water entering the plant exceeded its maximum capacity of 7 million gallons, causing the untreated water to flow directly into Tinkers Creek.
City Council President Anthony Perici proposed a six-month ban on all home construction until the Council could have engineers assess the problems. Mayor Edmund Thirkel suggested that Council finda compromise, but on July 27th the Council voted 5 to 2 in favor of the building Ban.
Within a month of passing the Ban, six builders filed lawsuits against the City, and Ryan Homes sued for damages. The Ban also stopped 40 existing homes in Twinsburg Heights from connecting to the sewers after decades of waiting.
By the end of September, the Judge ruled against the City. In an executive session, the City Council decided not to appeal the Court ruling. The court declared Twinsburg’s building ban unlawful. The newspaper articles implied that the Mayor’s dispute with the City Council caused Twinsburg Mayor Edmund Thirkel to resign days before the Judge ruled against the City. The City Council agreed not to appeal the verdict.

In 1973, the City Council widened Twin Hills Drive to four lanes, significantly alleviating traffic congestion on Church Street and the Square. The demand for Condominiums for seniors and empty nesters coincided with a changing local real estate market. The Birchwood developers dropped the zoning fight for apartment buildings to develop a series of 130 condominiums. The condominiums offered a new form of housing that promised more ownership and private space for residents, aligning with the broader trends in real estate development during that period.

In 1983, a few days before Christmas, McDonald’s opened its restaurant at the corner of Twin Hills Drive and Rt 82. By 1993, the developer and City Council zoning problems were resolved, and the Burridge Place Condominiums entered the Twinsburg housing market.

Sep 01

Unique Border

The area straddling the Twinsburg and Hudson border presents a unique case of urban planning and jurisdictional complexity. This housing development, accessible only through Twinsburg via Stow or Ravenna Roads. Residents navigating this area experience a seamless transition between locales, yet they are subject to the differing property tax rates and school districts of Twinsburg and Hudson.  Such developments raise interesting questions about community identity, governance, and the allocation of municipal services. It underscores the ongoing efforts to provide quality housing while navigating the complexities of local governance and community planning. 

Aug 01

Engine 444 of the TP&R Railroad

The story of Locomotive 444 of the TP&R railroad is a heartwarming tale of community spirit and ingenuity. Crafted from the remnants of a bygone era, this charming train was not just a means of entertainment but a symbol of unity and support for the local police force in Twinsburg. The collaborative effort of the police officers and townspeople, embodies the essence of civic duty and resourcefulness. The train’s journey from a creative fundraising idea to a beloved local attraction 70 years ago highlights the power of community-driven initiatives. Over the years, Locomotive 444 not only provided joyous memories to its passengers but also contributed significantly to the safety and well-being of the community by funding essential police training and equipment. Its legacy continues to be celebrated by those who remember the joy of riding her in their youth, a testament to the lasting impact of small-town solidarity.

Jul 01

Alma Roach Mercer

Ninety years ago, the small town of Twinsburg, Ohio, was filled with excitement and pride as one of their own, a 10th grader named Alma Roach, became the 1933 National Spelling Bee Champion. This remarkable achievement was celebrated by the town’s 1,241 residents, marking a significant moment in Twinsburg’s history. Alma Roach, sponsored by the Akron Beacon Journal, won the competition in by correctly spelling the word “torsion,” showcasing not only her spelling prowess but also the educational strengths of her community. Her victory was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students and teachers in Twinsburg, and it remains a proud part of the town’s heritage to this day. The story of Alma Roach earned her a memorable journey to Washington D.C., where she had the honor of meeting newly elected President Franklin Roosevelt. Her victory was celebrated by her hometown of Twinsburg, Ohio, with the local school principal and pastor preparing a warm welcome upon her return. Alma’s legacy continued to be recognized years later, as she received commendations from the Ohio Senate and Governor George White. Her journey through the spelling bee circuit, her subsequent life in California, and her return to Twinsburg after the Korean War, reflect the rich tapestry of experiences that followed her early success. Alma’s story, punctuated by her humble reaction to her victory, remains an inspiring example of how academic achievements can lead to extraordinary opportunities and recognition. Her dedication and hard work continue to resonate, illustrating the impact that such accomplishments can have on an individual’s life and community.