Canfield Historical Society
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Programs and Events
Programs and events are open to the public regardless of membership.
Canfield Historical Society
April, 2023 Lecture by Sean Posey "The Hidden History of YOungstown and the Mahoning Valley.
The Canfield Historical Society's April lecture will be The Hidden History of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, presented by Sean T. Posey on April 13th, 6pm at the Canfield library.
You won't want to miss this one! Everyone is welcome, regardless of membership, as always. Sean will also be signing books and have books available for purchase.
Sean T. Posey, a freelance writer and historian, holds a bachelor’s degree in photojournalism from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and a master’s degree in history from Youngstown State University. His work has been featured in a variety of publications, including Citylab, Salon and Bill Moyers and Company, as well as in the books “Car Bombs to Cookie Tables: The Youngstown Anthology” and the “Pittsburgh Anthology.”The History Press released Sean’s first two books: “Lost Youngstown” and “Historic Theaters of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley.” Sean's most recent book, and the subject of the April 13th lecture, "Hidden History of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley," debuted in 2022.
The lecture will be presented in the large meeting room at the Canfield library, across the street from the Canfield Historical Society Bond House. Stop by the Bond House prior to the lecture 5pm to 5:40pm, 44 W. Main Street, for a snack and socializing prior to the lecture. At the Bond house you will also be able to tour the all new displays on Canfield history. After enjoying the displays and refreshments, head across the street to the library, the lecture starts at the library at 6pm.
Canfield Historical Society
TAKE A GUIDED TOUR OF OLD NORTH CEMETERY
Come join us for a guided tour of Old North Cemetery on October 15th at 2pm. Rain or shine, meet at the Cemetery located at 495 N. Broad Street (Ohio Hwy 46), Canfield, Ohio. A $5 donation to the Canfield Historical Society is requested for the tour which will last approximately 1 1/2 hours. Please, dress comfortably.
Settlers from Connecticut were the first to come to Canfield Township in the late 1700s, and they were followed by a second wave of immigrants, Swiss-German pioneers who began arriving from the Berks and Leigh counties in Pennsylvania in 1804. In 1810, these "Pennsylvania Dutch" established The Zion Lutheran and Reformed Church and built a log church and cemetery on this site. The church was destroyed by fire in 1845 and a new church served the congregation, known as The Old Dutch and German Burying Ground, German Cemetery, and Lynn Cemetery and now Old North Cemetery, is all that remains. Among the dozens of old stone markers, some in German, are markers for veterans of the American Revolution, War of 1812, Civil War, and other wars.
Lecture Series
THE SEPTEMBER PROGRAM is WITH DAVID GODDARD
Have you ever wondered about the history of your house? When was it built? Who built it? Who lived in it? What mystery might the walls be hiding? Maybe you want to restore or rehabilitate your house back to its original character, or just have a curiosity about your home's past. But, you just don’t know where or how to start the research. Then, you will want to attend this lecture!
On Thursday, September 15th, the Canfield Historical Society will host a lecture and presentation by David Goddard, “Tracing house genealogy.”. A lifelong resident of Canfield, Mr. Goddard and his wife desired to find a local historic house to make their home. Their desire became reality in 1998 when they purchased their South Broad Street property. During the lecture Mr. Goddard will share stories about his journey tracing the physical and social history of his own home. He will share tips on how and where to gather information and how to decipher the information on old deeds, title transfers, plat maps, and tax records.
The lecture will be presented in the large meeting room at the Canfield library, across the street from the Canfield Historical Society Bond House. Stop by the Bond House prior to the lecture 5pm to 5:40pm, 44 W. Main Street, for a snack and socializing prior to the lecture. Then, head across the street to the library, lecture starts at the library at 6pm. This lecture is free and open to the public, regardless of membership. Hope to see you there!
Canfield Historical Society
When A Railroad ran through canfield by Bob Gentzel
Thursday, May 5th we enjoyed a presentation by Robert Gentzel entitled “When a Railroad Ran through Canfield.” Robert, a former Canfield resident, has done extensive research on the Niles-New Lisbon Railroad which was a part of the daily lives of Canfield residents from the 1860s through the early 20th century. When the line was complete in 1869, the southbound train ran from Niles to New Lisbon with a dozen stops in between, including Canfield. The history shows the evolution from steam locomotive to diesel engine. The line had both passenger and freight service. The railroad changed hands several times before the last train road the rails in 1981. Join us as we travel through the years and explore the railroad that served our village and the surrounding communities.
Our program was presented in the large meeting room at the Canfield library, across the street from the Bond House. Stop by the Bond House, 44 W. Main Street for cookies and lemonade at 5. Program starts at the library at 6pm. See you there!
Lecture Series
Spring lecture series returns thursday, april 14th
The Canfield Historical Society announces the return of the Spring Lecture Series, Thursday, April 14th. Up first is a presentation of political memorabilia by Canfield’s own Jack Dixey. Jack started on this collecting journey at the age of 13, when his grandmother, Margaret Scott, presented him with his first button. He has been a member of APIC (American Political Item Collectors) since 1968, has served on the board of directors, attended national and regional conventions and hosts a regional event annually in Canton. Jack has gathered a substantial collection of everything political over the past fifty years, with stories to accompany each article. In his spare time, Jack works for HakesAmericana, writing descriptions for their print auction catalog. Plan on attending this inaugural 2022 lecture Thursday, April 14th at 6pm. This lecture will be held in the large meeting room at the Canfield library. The lecture is free and open to the public, but donations are appreciated. Consider becoming a member of the Historical Society and gain advance notice of activities. The Society maintains two buildings in Canfield – the Bond House, 44 W. Main Street, that houses the collection of photographs, documents and memorabilia highlighting the community’s history. The second property is the Mahoning Dispatch, on the Green, where the Fowler family printed the weekly paper for three generations.
Canfield Historical Society
CANFIELD’S JERRY DIXEY: A HOT ROD LIFE NOVEMBER 14,2019
The final event of the year Canfield’s Jerry Dixey: A Hot Rod Life will be on Thursday, November 14 at 7:00 pm at the Bond House. Dixey, a native of Canfield, has been leading the Street Rodder Road Tour across the United States for over twenty years. A life-long car enthusiast, Dixey has been honored by National Street Rod Association and writes for Hot Rod magazine. This lecture is free and open to the public.
Last Events for 2019
cemetery Walk October 26th, 2019
On Saturday, October 26, the society will host a cemetery walk of the Canfield Village Cemetery. The cemetery was formed in 1810 on property given to “the inhabitants of Canfield” by Elijah Wadsworth and his wife, Rhoda, specifically for the purpose of burying residents. The cemetery, enlarged over the years, continues to serve that purpose today.
This is the first year for this event which will highlight prominent Canfield citizens. From original land owners who settled the village in 1798 to celebrated businessmen who founded enterprises that continued past the century mark, people’s stories will come alive. Veterans of The Revolutionary War, Civil War and World War I will also be featured. Familiar family names, such as Neff, Chidester, Barnes and Manchester, will be showcased. The walk will begin at 2:00 and is free and open to the public. Walkers should park on the east side of the cemetery and meet at the mausoleum.
Canfield History Walk
Take a Step Back In Time
Canfield History Walk: A Step Back in Time is a fundraising event for the non-profit Canfield Historical Society. The History Walk will guide visitors through Canfield's past, from early pioneer days to the early 20th Century. Local volunteers will portray historical persons and events. All new presentations for this year include portrayals of Mrs. Yeager's WW11 Victory Kitchen, the Cholera outbreak, Col. J.M. Nash, The Onion Society, and more, for a total of 9 skits! Of course, everyone's favorite, the portrayal of the 1920's Farmers National Bank robbery will be included. All will enable young and old to learn more about local history, and foster a love of community.
The event will take place two Saturdays, September 21 and September 28, 2019. Three tours are available on the 21st-4:30, 5:15 and 5:45 rain or shine. The September 28 program will be a sit down event indoors for those who are unable or choose not to do the walking program. Tickets for the Canfield History Walk: A Step Back in Time are $10 per person. Also available is a special Walk/Dinner package for $25per person that includes dinner at Piccadilly Parlor.
Tickets may be purchased by calling the Canfield Historical Society at 330-533-3458. Leave a message with your name and phone number and someone from the Society will return your call.
Mahoning Dispatch Living History Tours . The Canfield Histor
Saturday, June 8, 2024
Mahoning Dispatch Living History Tours
The Canfield Historical Society will offer live action walking tours inside the old Mahoning Dispatch Newspaper Office on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Visitors will step back in time to experience the bustling world of journalism and newspaper printing from bygone days. This unique experience will feature costumed actors bringing the vibrant history of the Mahoning Dispatch to life.
To ensure a personalized experience, the Canfield Historical Society is asking visitors to make pre-appointments by emailing canfieldhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or calling the society at 330-533-3458. Tours take place at 23 S. Broad Street in Canfield, and will be available at noon and 2pm allowing guests to choose a time that suits their schedule. A $5 donation is requested per participant to support the preservation and maintenance of this historic landmark. "We are always excited to open our doors and invite the community to step into history with us," said Laura Zeh, Curator of the Canfield Historical Society. "These Living History Tours offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone curious about the inner workings of a historic newspaper office." The Mahoning Dispatch debuted on May 4, 1877, in Canfield, and was published by Henry Manning Fowler. Soon becoming the established newspaper in the area. Fowler stated in the initial edition that “The Dispatch will be an independent journal, non-partisan in politics and the organ of no political faction or religious sect.” The Fowler family continued to publish the Mahoning Dispatch as an independent paper until 1968, becoming the longest continuously published family-run newspaper in Mahoning County.
Spring Lecture May 9, 2024
Exploring Canfield's Heritage: Lecture and Presentation on Local Historic Homes.
History enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and local residents are in for a treat as The Canfield Historical Society presents a program on some of the historic homes of Canfield, Ohio. This event will take place at the Canfield library on May 9th at 6pm.
Canfield boasts a treasure trove of historic homes that reflect the region's unique heritage and architectural evolution. The presentation will delve into the fascinating stories behind some of these iconic homes, providing insights into their design, significance, and the families who once called them home.
Attendees can expect to journey through time as the current owners of the homes showcase photos, old and new, and highlight each home's unique history and how it holds a piece of Canfield's narrative, weaving together a tapestry of the town's cultural and historical identity.
Laura Zeh, Curator for the Canfield Historical Society expressed that, "It's a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and deepen our appreciation for the architectural gems that grace our town."
The lecture and presentation are open and free to the public, regardless of membership. No prior registration is needed.
Don't miss this captivating journey into Canfield's history. Suzy McCabe, CHS President, invites all to, "Join us in the large meeting room at the Canfield Library on May 9th, at 6pm for this opportunity to virtually explore and learn about some of the local historic homes that define our community."
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Spring Lecture April 11, 2024
A Virtual Road Trip on Route 66
The Canfield Historical Society Spring Lecture Series continues with a lecture "A Virtual Road Trip on Route 66". Enjoy a virtual trip on the "Mother Road", US Highway 66, without leaving the Canfield Library. With the official beginning in 1926, the highway became a popular route due in large part to the active promotion of the U.S 66 Highway Association, which advertised it as “the shortest, best and most scenic route from Chicago through St. Louis to Los Angeles". Jerry Dixey will share his many personal adventures along Route 66 on Thursday, April 11, 6pm, in the large meeting room at the Canfield library. The lecture is FREE (although donations are always appreciated) and open to the public. No prior registration is needed. The Bond House will be open prior to the lecture, from 5pm to 5:40pm for light refreshments and socializing.
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Spring Lecture March 14, 2024
The History of the Mahoning County Infirmary
The Canfield Historical Society kicks off its Spring Lecture Series with a lecture on the Mahoning County Infirmary, known locally as the 'Old Pogy'. Canfield Historical Society President Suzie McCabe will present the lecture on March 14th, at 6:30pm. The program will be held in the large meeting room at the Canfield library, across the street from the Canfield Historical Society Bond House. The Bond House will be open prior to the lecture, from 5pm to 6:15pm for light refreshments and socializing.
The lecture is FREE (although donations are always appreciated) and open to the public. No prior registration is needed. Come learn about how the Mahoning County Infirmary, which opened in 1855, served the county, caring for the elderly, infirmed, mentally and/or physically challenged, mentally insane and the indigent.
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September 21,2023 African american migration waves into the Mahonig valley & My family history
September 21st Fall Lecture
Our Canfield Historical Society Fall Lecture Series kicks off with Stacey L. Adger on Thursday, September 21st at 6pm. Using her family as an example, join Mahoning Valley Historical Society board member and Mahoning County Chapter Ohio Genealogical Society vice president Stacey Adger as she takes us through census, church records and an assortment of other documents to explore the events and circumstances which brought her family and other African Americans to the Mahoning Valley.
The lecture is FREE (although donations are always appreciated) and open to the public. No prior registration is needed. The program will be presented in the large meeting room at the Canfield library, across the street from the Canfield Historical Society Bond House.
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June8,2023 Guided tour of Mahoning Dispatch
The June 8th Canfield Historical Socieity lecture venue has been updated. The June 8th program will now be a FREE guided tour of the Mahoning Dispatch newspaper building. Located at 23 South Broad Street in Canfield, The Mahoning Dispatch served Canfield and the surrounding communities for ninety-one years. The newspaper holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously published newspaper owned by a single family in Mahoning County. The first edition of the weekly journal was published May 4, 1877, with a yearly subscription price of $1.50, to be paid in advance. Founded by Canfield native and Civil War veteran Henry Manning Fowler, The Mahoning Dispatch was originally located on the corner of East Main and Broad streets. In 1893, the business was moved to its current location, which was built by Pierpont Edwards in 1866 to serve as a grocery store. One of the first printers in the area to purchase a linotype composing machine, which replaced the method of hand setting type. Fowler stated in the initial edition that “The Dispatch will be an independent journal, non-partisan in politics and the organ of no political faction or religious sect.” Published by three generations of the Fowler family, the newspaper was discontinued in 1968. After the paper stopped publishing, the Dispatch office continued on as a "job shop" printing company until the death of Ralph Fowler in 1991.
The free guided tour of the Civil War Era building and historic newspaper business will be led by Canfield Historical Society President Suzy McCabe. Everyone is welcome to attend regardless of membership. No prior registration is needed. Meet at the 23 South Broad Street location prior to the tour start time of 6pm.
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May 11, 2023 Canfield Trivia Event
Canfield Historical Society's May event:
Come test your Canfield history knowledge and win some prizes! The Canfield Historical Society will host a Canfield Trivia program on May 11th at 6pm. Suzanne McCabe, the Canfield Historical Society’s President, will be the trivia master for the event. The event is FREE and open to the public. The program will be presented in the large meeting room at the Canfield library, across the street from the Canfield Historical Society Bond House. Stop by the Bond House 5pm to 5:40pm, 44 W. Main Street, for socializing and brushing up on some Canfield History prior to the trivia program by touring the displays on Canfield history. After enjoying the displays, head across the street to the library, the fun begins at the library at 6pm.
Mahoning Dispatch Living History Tours . The Canfield Histor
Saturday, September 21, 2024 Open House at the Bond House
The Canfield Historical Society is pleased to announce an open house at the Bond House on Saturday, September 21, 2024. The event is free and open to the public, with no reservations required. Suzanne McCabe, President of the Canfield Historical Society, will personally lead a guided tour of the Bond House, beginning at 12:00 noon. This special tour will offer visitors the chance to explore new displays, learn about the rich history of Canfield, and appreciate the role of the Historical Society and the Bond House in the community. The Bond House is located at 44 W. Main Street in Canfield, across from the Library.
Mahoning Dispatch Living History Tours . The Canfield Histor
Saturday, October 12, 2024 Canfield Village Cemetery Guided Tour
Mark your calendar for our next cemetery tour on Saturday, October 12. Suzanne McCabe, Canfield Historical Society President, and Laura Zeh, Curator, will lead a walking tour of the Canfield Village Cemetery. The cemetery was formed in 1810 on property given to “the inhabitants of Canfield” by Elijah Wadsworth and his wife, Rhoda, specifically for the purpose of burying residents. The cemetery, enlarged over the years, continues to serve that purpose today.
This guided tour will highlight original land owners who settled the village in 1798, Veterans of The Revolutionary War, Civil War and World Wars will also be featured. A revealing of Canfield citizens, seemingly ordinary people, but with extraordinary life stories. The walk will begin at 2:00pm, Saturday, October 12. Walkers should park on the east side of the cemetery and meet at the rear of the mausoleum. This tour is free for Canfield Historical Society members. A donation of $5 per person for non-members will add to our cemetery improvement funds.
Rain or Shine. No reservations required.