Each month, we feature on our a different Ohio city as part of our #GOPCThread Series, #OHCommunitySpotlight. This month, we visit Northwest Ohio’s Defiance, the county seat of Defiance County.
This month the #GOPCThread is exploring @DefianceOhio located in northwest Ohio. Founded in 1823, this year Defiance celebrates its Bicentennial! With rich history, beautiful natural features, and strong businesses, this city’s 17K residents have much to celebrate! #GOPCThread
Defiance owes its name to Fort Defiance, a military outpost built by General “Mad” Anthony Wayne in 1794. He reportedly boasted “I defy the English, the Indians, and all the devils in Hell to take it", thus giving it its name. #GOPCThread
While no longer in use, the Miami & Erie Canal was critical to Defiance’s early growth. In operation from 1845 to the early 1900s, this important waterway carried commerce and passengers through @DefianceOhio, building a strong industrial base. #GOPCThread
The Great Black Swamp, formed from melting glaciers, covered NE Ohio for thousands of years. The wetland was drained in the mid-1800s leaving behind rich soil for farming. Today, @H2OOhio is working to restore this natural resource and others across the state. #GOPCThread
Historic Map of the Great Black Swamp. Created by Gary L. Franks for "The Maumee & Western Reserve Road: Its History and a Survey of the Milestones" published in 2008.
Downtown @DefianceOhio hosts many shops, restaurants, bars, and activities for the whole family! Go check out Cabin Fever Coffee or Kissner’s Restaurant to find out why Defiance is “where friends, families, and the rivers meet.” #GOPCThread
The #DefianceCommunityCulturalCouncil brings community members together to share cultural traditions and celebrate diversity. Located in the Stroede Center for the Arts, this historic building is a valuable hub for community events. #GOPCThread
This year @DefianceOhio was named a #Smart21Community by the Intelligent Community Forum. Defiance County has achieved this designation through its broadband initiatives, technological & agricultural innovations, and environmental stewardship. Congratulations! #GOPCThread
Ready to go back in time? Check out the AuGlaize Village & Farm Museum where you can immerse yourself in 19th century history through 41 new and reconstructed buildings as well as year-round special events. They are always looking for volunteers! #GOPCThread
AuGlaize Village and Farm Museum, image courtesy of Tourism Ohio
Thirsty? Grab a drink at one of the six establishments in Defiance’s DORA! Established in 2019, this Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area covers over 100 acres and encourages residents and visitors to explore the city’s downtown. #GOPCThread
Defiance is home to several sites on the National Register of Historic Places. The Defiance Public Library, built in 1904, is located on the site of Fort Defiance and the 1895 Huber Opera House was a try-out theater for George H. Huber’s NY and Chicago theaters. #GOPCThread
Defiance County is working hard to connect students with workforce development resources. Attend the Summer Manufacturing & Skilled Trades Camp to learn about these important industries! Several employers also offer apprenticeships for high school students. #GOPCThread
Small businesses in Defiance County can apply for the Homegrown Program, sponsored by Premier Bank. This program offers $500 grants for market research and technical assistance on industry trends, search engine optimization, and marketing. #GOPCThread
Thanks for exploring Defiance with us! Learn more about this city at @DefianceOH, @VisitDefianceOH and @DefianceChamber. Or better yet, go visit! Look out for another Ohio community on the #GOPCThread in December!
