Readers identify Ohio photos early 1900s
Readers recognize Ohio historical photographs 1900s.
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As I drove past that building on state Route 91 for the umpteenth time, little did I know that it held a treasure trove of history captured in a century-old photograph. The store’s transformation over the years had masked its origins, but keen-eyed readers were quick to identify it as one of the oldest buildings in Munroe Falls.
The journey to uncover the secrets of this historic building began with a collection of 26 glass plate negatives from the late 1890s and early 1900s, graciously passed down to the author by Lucille Hageman. These images, developed after years of languishing in the author’s basement, shed light on a bygone era in Munroe Falls.
The Legacy of J.J. Uplinger Store
Step back in time to circa 1900, and you’ll find Jacob J. Uplinger standing proudly outside his general store at 10 N. Main St. in Munroe Falls. A grocer and postmaster, Uplinger took over the reins from Lyman Beckley in the early 1890s, transforming the building into a hub of commerce and community.
According to the Munroe Falls Historical Society, the store’s origins date back to 1836 when it served as a sash factory before transitioning into a bustling general store with a second-floor residence. Through the years, it changed hands and names, eventually becoming the home of Scherer Quality Construction and the Stow Munroe Barber Shop.
Thanks to the diligent research of Akron librarian Michael Elliott, a fascinating connection emerged between Uplinger and the donor of the glass plate negatives, Red Hageman. The intricate web of family ties and historical significance woven around this building adds a layer of depth to its storied past.
Exploring Main Street in Munroe Falls
Imagine standing at the top of the steps in the J.J. Uplinger store photo and gazing north along Main Street in Munroe Falls. The once-rural road, now bustling Route 91, holds within its asphalt the echoes of a simpler time.
The historic home at 21 N. Main St., captured in another photograph, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Munroe Falls. From the Baltimore & Ohio depot to the Scissor Room beauty salon and spa, the evolution of this quaint town is etched in the bricks and mortar of its buildings.
With each discovery, the puzzle pieces of Munroe Falls’ past fall into place, thanks to the dedicated efforts of historians and community members alike.
Unraveling the Mystery of the A.H. Scovill Store
Delve deeper into the annals of history, and you’ll encounter the enigmatic figure of Arthur Higby Scovill, a merchant and postmaster in Freedom Station. The brick store, adorned with a sign for Oliver Chilled Plows, stands as a silent witness to a bygone era when the clatter of horse-drawn wagons filled the air.
As the Ravenna Arsenal expanded its reach, swallowing up acres of land, the depot that once stood tall alongside the Ohio Injector Co. faded into memory. Today, the old store remains a hidden gem, nestled within the walls of a modern-day residence.
The legacy of Scovill and his contemporaries lives on in the whispers of the past, waiting to be unearthed by curious minds and eager hearts.
Peering into the Past Through Vintage Group Portraits
Among the intriguing glass plate negatives are group portraits that offer a glimpse into the social fabric of Munroe Falls. From the members of the Mush Club, dedicated to wild mushroom foraging, to the unidentified faces in family portraits, each image tells a story of camaraderie and community.
Through meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, historians have pieced together the threads of these group portraits, shedding light on the lives of those who once called Munroe Falls home.
Unveiling the Photographer Behind the Lens
As the search for the elusive photographer continues, tantalizing clues emerge that point towards a connection with Western Union and the telegraph industry. Could the unknown photographer be none other than Charles or Otto, two telegraph operators with ties to the historical figures captured in the photographs?
The quest to unravel the mysteries of Munroe Falls’ past is far from over, with each new discovery opening a window into a world long forgotten.
For more captivating glimpses into Ohio’s rich history, explore the gallery accompanying this story online.
For inquiries and feedback, reach out to Mark J. Price at mprice@thebeaconjournal.com
This article was originally featured on Akron Beacon Journal: Readers identify Ohio photos from early 20th century
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Readers identify Ohio photos from early 1900s
Surprising results Ohio photos early 1900s.
