"God and I are partners on this land, and I feel under great obligation to do it right."
- Everett Farnam -
1800-1884
Our mission is to carry on the philosophies of Everett Farnam, a colorful figure from America's past. His father was an early pioneer and one of the first settlers west of the Cuyahoga River. This was hostile Indian territory in those days.
The legend of this once 3200 acre estate dates back to 1644.
A U shaped pine tree still stands tall. It once marked the Indian trail that is now Brecksville Road. (old rt. 21)
In 1834, Everett built this magnificent Manor House for his bride. He and Emily raised 5 children here.
We are a 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and interpretation of the Farnam Manor Estate and the history it represents.
The vision of the Farnam Foundation is to keep this piece of history alive through a house museum for the vast community to learn of days gone by.
Back to the story
Many tales are told of the Indian times, The War of 1812, Civil War times ,
the happy and the sad times this old relic has seen.
A portion of the Farnam land is now part of Furnace Run Metro Park. It is located near the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, one of the most visited parks in the U.S.
In 1921, a madam from Akron added the extravagant front porch and Porte Cochere as well as the northwing extension. This was an exclusive club having a certain aura of elegance during the early 1900 era.
Glory days continued as this classic example of Western Reserve architecture housed the infamous
Danish Smorgasboard restuarant. Folks came from miles around to enjoy good food and fellowship. It is an era that must never be forgotten.
Once the Danish Smorgasboard closed, the manor went through hard times.
It was falling down with snakes residing in it .
But it was not forgotten.The previous overseers put their heart and soul into an effort to revive this old relic.
Great pains were taken to restore it as authentically as possible.
But this vital piece of our shared heritage has been left by the wayside again. The restoration efforts are fading away due to neglect.
It has been abandoned and vandalized.
It is rapidly deteriorating.
The Farnam Foundation was formed because of this urgency to rescue the Farnam Manor from it's demise.
"Love and cherish this clasic domain, For I shall go but it will remain. Please take care of it for me, for it is a part of history." This message is posted on the North side chimney.
WE MUST ALL WORK TOGETHER TO TAKE CARE OF THIS PIECE OF HISTORY.
Go to our "Get Involved " page for upcoming events!
THANKS for visiting THE FARNAM FOUNDATION and please visit us often. We will be updating our site with our progress and be adding new content regularly!
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