Page Two of Our Village Walk

The Railroad Bridge going over the river

The railroad, which came to Grand Rapids in 1877, actually caused the beginning of failure for the canal system.  The present railroad bridge was built around 1920 and is still used by the Bluebird Passenger Train, transporting occupants back to a time when the railroad was helping open up this part of the country.

Howard Cemetary

As we cross the railroad track, on your left you will see Howard Cemetery.  Buried there are members of the Howard family who in 1820 became the first white settlers on the south bank.  Also buried there is a Revolutionary War soldier and Tee-Na-Beek, who is believed to be the last Ottawa Indian left in the Maumee Valley.  Losing their land to the White Man, the widow had no burial spot, so his friend, Dresden Howard allowed the Indian's body to be placed among his relatives.  Wrapped in a fine blanket, his grave is located outside the iron fence.

Log Cabin Tourist Center

Turning toward the river we see the log cabin, herb garden, and windmill which surrounds it.  Created by the Grand Rapids Historical Society to serve as a Welcome Center, a rack of Northwest Ohio information brochures is placed there for your convenience.  Also, an historical marker tells the story of Grand Rapids' survival despite fire and floods.

The Beautiful Maumee River Just North of the Sidecut Canal Towpath - A Walk You Won't Want to Miss

At this point you gain a sweeping view of the Maumee River. The State Dam in the distance was first built of wood in1838 to hold back water to feed the canal system.   It was rebuilt of concrete in 1908 when the State attempted to pump new life into its canals.  The canals failed completely in 1913 when statewide flooding caused severe damage to the canal banks.

Bluebell Island and Park

The rolling green on your right is Bluebell Park.  

Bluebell Island, for which the park was named, is located in the old Miami and Erie Sidecut Canal basin where canal boats once turned around before heading west on their return trip to the main leg of the Miami and Erie Canal across the river.  The site is one of the most serene spots in Grand Rapids and is a favorite picture taking location.

[village walk page three]