Akron's Role in the Underground Railroad

Akron Weekly Digest: Your Insider's Guide to Urban Adventures
Stay in the Loop with the Latest Happenings in Akron

This Week's Highlights:

Upcoming Events:

• 8/27: Dive into local history at the Akron-Summit County Public Library's seminar on free financial services available to Summit County residents. Time: 2 PM - 4 PM.

• 8/29: The Nightlight presents a special screening of Summer Days, capturing the bittersweet journey of a 13-year-old discovering love and loss. Multiple showtimes: 5:45 PM & 8 PM.

• 8/30-8/31: Enjoy Akron’s Pizza and Music Festival on W. Bowery St. Taste slices from local parlors and groove to live music. Friday: 11 AM - 1 PM & 5 PM - 10 PM; Saturday: 2 PM - 10 PM.

8/26-9/1 Weather:

• Mon 26: Morning Clouds, Afternoon Sun, 69°/53°

• Tue 27: Partly Cloudy, 68°/52°

• Wed 28: Mostly Clear, 71°/51°

• Thu 29: Sunny Skies, 77°/53°

• Fri 30: Bright and Sunny, 83°/58°

• Sat 31: Partly Sunny, 84°/64°

• Sun 1: Warm and Partly Cloudy, 88°/68°

Fact of the Day: Akron's Role in the Underground Railroad

Akron played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, serving as a key stop for many escaping slavery in the 19th century. The city's location between the Ohio River and Lake Erie made it a strategic passageway for freedom seekers heading north. Akron's own John Brown, who lived in the city during the 1840s, was a conductor on the Underground Railroad. His work, along with others in the community, contributed to the safe passage of countless individuals seeking freedom.

Story of the Week: A Timeline of the Tragic Shooting on East Avenue

On August 17, just after 1 a.m., a routine investigation into a stolen vehicle at an East Avenue gas station in Akron turned fatal. Officers approached a U-Haul truck, where 54-year-old Michael Donnell Jones was seated in the driver's side. The officers attempted to arrest Jones, leading to a brief struggle during which Jones put the vehicle in gear. The vehicle began to move forward, briefly dragging one of the officers.

Amid the chaos, an officer fired two rounds, striking Jones. Despite the officers’ immediate efforts to administer first aid, Jones was pronounced dead at the scene. Initially, it was reported that a gun was recovered from the vehicle, but footage later showed that the weapon was found on or near Jones only after he was removed from the truck.

This incident has sparked significant concern and calls for a thorough investigation into the Akron Police Department's handling of the situation. Councilman-at-Large Eric D. Garrett Sr. has urged for accountability and transparency, emphasizing the importance of revisiting police procedures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The officer involved is currently on paid administrative leave while the investigation by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation continues.

Landmark of the Week: Anne Dean Farm

Anne Dean Farm stands as a vital link to Akron’s rich agricultural past. Established in the 19th century, the farm played a crucial role in sustaining the local community, providing fresh produce, dairy, and a gathering place for rural families. Beyond its agricultural contributions, the farm became a community symbol during times of economic hardship.

The farmhouse and surrounding structures have been meticulously preserved, offering a rare glimpse into the daily lives of early Akron residents. Today, Anne Dean Farm hosts educational programs that teach visitors about sustainable farming practices, local history, and the importance of preserving our natural heritage. The farm also serves as a community hub, hosting seasonal festivals, markets, and events that celebrate Akron’s rural roots and agricultural legacy.

Visiting Anne Dean Farm is like stepping back in time, allowing you to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era. It's a place where history comes alive, offering both locals and visitors a deeper understanding of the land and the people who have shaped it over the centuries.