Akron History, Ohio

The history of Akron as a city started in 1825 when the now southern area of Akron was declared as a town. During that time, the population of Akron was just over 200. The name Akron was taken from the same Greek word which means high. The height refers to the highest point of the canal which connects to Lake Erie. The northern Akron was then referred to as the Village of Cascade in 1833. By 1836, Akron became a chartered city which includes the northern and southern Akron. The population of the whole Akron when the chartered city was granted by the state was a little more than 1,300.  

The city of Akron has seen a lot of changes since its establishment. The city used to be the rubber capital of the country as the city has attracted various companies related to the tire industry. This started at the turn of the century when Firestone established a factory in Akron in 1900. The strategic location of the city was become very attractive to different businesses as they are given the ability to ship materials to neighboring cities faster. Firestone’s business grew considerably while in Akron, prompting other business to consider Akron one of their business locations. By late 1920s, General Rubber and Goodyear Tires and Rubber Company were also located in the city. Because of the sheer number of tire and rubber related products that come out of the city, the city because known as the “rubber capital of the country”.  

The success of Akron when it comes to businesses is based on its strategic location. Akron provides access to different places around the city without any problem. The canal provides easy access to Lake Erie which then provides better access to different states around the country. It is just natural for businesses to opt for a location wherein they could save on logistics while having enough manpower to support their daily tasks. Akron, Ohio became the perfect spot for different businesses.  

Today, Akron is still known for its rubber industry but all eyes are now in technology. The city was the first to experience broadband internet in the country which was established in 1996. During the 90s, Science Center and National Inventors Hall of Fame were also established. From merely 200 to 320,000 in population, Akron did not only grow through sheer number of its residents but also of its accommodation of promising businesses. 

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