Northern Ohio has an interesting history. While Ohio has only been a state since 1803, many early settlers arrived in the state well before then. Even Cleveland itself was surveyed and founded in 1796, predating Ohio's formal establishment as part of the Union. However, some places have preserved The Buckeye State's history better than others. Historic Lyme Village is one incredible historic day drip destination near Cleveland that's well worth a visit. Prepare to step back in time, because this fascinating village is full of history that will take you back.
Hiding about an hour outside of Cleveland in Huron County, Historic Lyme Village is a destination that is out of this world.
Historic Lyme Village is a beautiful spot full of history and charm. This unique destination is a living time capsule, filled to the brim with historic architecture, antiques, and tales of yore.
This nonprofit attraction immerses visitors in history, allowing them to step back in time when they step into 16 historic buildings.
Pictured here is the John Wright Mansion, one of the most iconic buildings on site. Built in the Second Empire style of architecture, this striking building was just as impressive when it was built in 1881 as it is today. Believe it or not, this edifice was once a farmhouse.
Each building has a story to tell, and many have been painstakingly disassembled and moved from their original location, then reassembled in Historic Lyme Village.
The charming Annie Brown log cabin is one of many buildings moved to the site of Historic Lyme Village. Originally, it was built in Flat Rock in Seneca County in 1851. Miss Annie Brown lived in it from 1869 to 1951 and the building was moved to Huron County in 1976.
Many of the buildings on-site are among the oldest in Ohio.
Of course, the oldest buildings in Ohio can be found in Marietta, dating from around the late 1780s and 1790s. While not quite that old, the buildings here are impressive and have aged like a fine wine. This is no doubt due to the dedicated preservation efforts of many local volunteers. This is why buildings like the Seymour House, built in 1836, still look so impressive.
Some on-site attractions, like the Detterman Evangelical Church, are particularly unique.
This church, which is absolutely beautiful, is believed to be one of two remaining log churches in Ohio. Interestingly, Put-in-Bay also has its own wooden church worth bragging about. If you're planning a weekend trip out to the area, don't be afraid to budget some time to visit this cool island.
The area on which Lyme Village rests is known as the Firelands or Sufferers' Lands.
With such an ominous nickname, it's no wonder many locals haven't heard of the history of the Firelands. You see, areas in Huron and Erie counties were set aside for Connecticut residents whose homes had burnt down in the midst of the American Revolution... though they wouldn't move to populate the area until around 1812.
Fortunately for visitors, nearly all of the on-site buildings are handicapped accessible and their hours offer plenty of time to visit.
Regular hours of operation usually only range from June through August, although group tours, weddings, picnics, and more can schedule a visit or attend an event during their "winter months."
And there are even opportunities to save on admission.
Historic Lyme Village offers a $1 coupon per visitor discount, which you can find on their website. That's 10% off adult admission!
There is so much to see and do in this historic village.
If walls could talk, there would be endless conversation here. Each building has around a century (if not more!) of use, having impacted our ancestors and predecessors. There's a certain sort of magic that comes with walking the same path as humans of yore.
Amazing things are waiting to be discovered throughout Ohio, but this site in particular merits a visit from Cleveland.
This historic day drip destination near Cleveland is close enough for a spontaneous visit, yet far enough to feel like it's an escape with a different pace of life. If walls could talk, Historic Lyme Village would doubtlessly have an incredible story to tell. So, what do you think? Would you visit this unique site? Tell us in the comments!
Looking for something historical and a bit closer to home? The Strongsville Historical Society and Village is well worth a visit!
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