North Royalton: 1870-1920

Description

Royalton Township was established in 1818 as one of several townships in Cuyahoga County. The land that was Royalton Township now is incorporated into the city of North Royalton and a western portion of Broadview Heights. This exhibit will examine life in North Royalton during its earliest years of growth and compare it to North Royalton today. The exhibit will also trace the development of North Royalton from an agricultural community to a fledgling village and begin to answer the question of why North Royalton did not industrialize.

Credits

Matthew Kish

Sections

Maps

North Royalton (Royalton Township) as it looked in 1874, 1912, and as it looks today.

Residences

These photos show a small sampling of where people lived in Royalton Township around 1900.

Economic Activity

With little potential for water power and no railroads, North Royalton lacked the potential for industry. However, the rolling green hills made for solid agricultural growth and roads allowed for commerce.

Social Institutions

Communities often can be defined by key social institutions, such as churches, schools, and cemeteries.