Tucked away in rural northern Ohio and surrounded by farmland, Oberlin may not seem like the kind of place you’d visit for an impressive arts scene or to see a Frank Lloyd Wright house, much less to learn about what some historians call “the town that started the Civil War.”
Located about 35 miles southwest of Cleveland and home to about 8,200 people, the bucolic little city was founded in 1833 as a Christian Perfectionist community. Early community members had to pledge to live plainly and think deeply.
Oberlin College, a small liberal arts college with a renowned music conservatory, was founded the same year as the town. From early on, the college led the way in opening its doors to women and African Americans. The city also played an important role in the abolition movement and the Underground Railroad.
In addition to its deep history, Oberlin is a delightful place to visit for a weekend. Here are 6 places to explore.