Preserving the Past for the Future: The Brunswick Historical Society
By Isabella Schumann, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- The Brunswick Historical Society is a non-profit organization, entirely run by volunteers, operating with funds collected through membership dues, sponsors, donations and fundraising events. “We strive to preserve and showcase the history and heritage of the Brunswick Area, which includes partnering with the city, township and school district,” said Katie Georgekopoulos, manager of the Society’s popular Sunday At the Farm. For example, the Society shares local history with all Brunswick elementary school fifth-grade students who visit during their annual class field trips to the Historical Society.
Georgekopoulos explained her favorite part of the Historical Society is “Hearing the reactions of the community after they have been to the farm.” The Brunswick Historical Society, located at Heritage Farm, 4613 Laurel Road, has been at its current location since 1992, displaying artifacts, newspaper articles, books or maps from Brunswick and surrounding areas.
The importance of the Brunswick Historical Society is best displayed at Heritage Farm, a mid-19th century farm of the Ohio Western Reserve which is the centerpiece of the property. The original area had over 325 acres which was purchased in 1818. You can tour the farmhouse, big red barn, milk and chicken houses, equipment shed, granary, corn crib, carriage house, two outhouses, and their newest William Parschen Gazebo, which was previously located at the former Towslee Elementary school (which the current new Brunswick High School is being built).
“All history is important whether you agree with it or not,” expressed Georgekopoulos. “It has shaped the people, the infrastructure, the inventions and progress and the leadership.” Georgekopolos believes that every Historical Society is different and unique from each other. And, she credits the volunteers and supporters for keeping all of the history from over the years alive for visitors to appreciate.
One upcoming event to look forward to is “Sunday At The Farm Outdoor Market,” starting on June 14th through October 4th every Sunday from 10:00am to 1:00pm. There will be produce, homemade jams, baked goods, crafts and more during those times.
Also, this year is a very special year for the Brunswick Historical Society since it’s America's 250th anniversary. It’s a great time to explore local history from over the decades, as it gives us a more personal connection to the lives and cultures of those before us. Georgekopoulos believes that the purpose for the society is for the community, “To collect, preserve, and showcase our history and heritage for those who will come after us.”
Check out their website, brunswickhistory.com, for more information, as well as their social media on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brunswickhistory# and www.facebook.com/SundayAtTheFarm/ .
Isabella Schumann, Brunswick High School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
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