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Prior to Barberton’s founding, O.C. Barber recognized the area’s potential for a city, located along both the canal and rail lines. In 1891, Barberton was founded and after a brief economic lag, the new village began growing rapidly and soon became a thriving city.  

Before the city of Barberton was founded, the area surrounding the lake was comprised of swamps, woods, and fields. Local farmers used it to bathe and water their livestock, and was known as Davis Pond, Way Pond, or Way-Davis Pond after the farmers who once owned the property on which the lake sits. After the founding of the city, the lake was renamed for O.C. Barber’s daughter, Anna Laura Barber.

When the first settlers arrived in this area, some of the first buildings built were churches and schools. Churches provided the important role of spiritual worship, as well as being a place for townspeople to gather together.

Before the city was founded, the area surrounding the lake was comprised of swamps, woods, and fields. Local farmers used it to bathe and water their livestock. At this time it was known as Davis Pond, Way Pond, or Way-Davis Pond after the farmers who once owned the property on which the lake sits. After the founding of the city, the lake was renamed for O.C. Barber’s daughter, Anna Laura Barber.

O.C. Barber, the founder of Barberton, wanted to build a city of industry, and from its founding in 1891, the City and the industry thrived for decades. Despite a slow decline, industry still lives in the Magic City.

Barberton has many landmarks that reflect the history of the city and the character of the citizens. To help you understand and appreciate the importance of these landmarks, this program will focus on brief background information about the history of a couple of these familiar sights.

Stop by the library this month to pick-up a copy of "The Bad Guys" by Aaron Blabey, plus discussion questions and related activities.