Explore the History of the Early Western Reserve

Join the Bay Village Historical Society and Cleveland Starts Here on a trip through the history of the early Western Reserve, the settlement and surveying of Cleveland, and the city’s industrial and cultural growth, decline and modern revitalization.

The story, presented at the historical society’s Feb. 20 meeting and potluck dinner at the Bay Lodge, is anchored around objects on view at the Cleveland Starts Here exhibit at the Cleveland History Center, sponsored by the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation. Like the exhibit, this program explores the rich and diverse history of Northeast Ohio from early settlement to the modern day by focusing on the lives and stories of those who have called the city home.

The evening begins with a 6 p.m. social, followed by 6:30 p.m. potluck dinner and 7 p.m. program. The main dish is provided by the historical society. Attendees with a last name beginning with letters A through L should bring a side dish for 10. Those with last names beginning with M through Z should bring an appetizer or dessert.  Everyone should bring his or her own place setting.

Admission is free for Bay Village Historical Society members. If you are not a member, a $5 donation is requested to defray dinner costs. Membership is encouraged and the annual fee is $10 for students, $25 for individuals and $35 for families. Attending the program only is free.

Please RSVP to Beth Conroy at 440-821-4427 by Feb. 13 or email beth2335@yahoo.com. The Lodge is at 492 Bradley Rd. in Bay Village. The next potluck program is on May 21 at the Bay Lodge.