Ohio's Revolutionary War Fort? The Wake Up for Monday, Sept. 15, 2025

Rebuilding History: The Reconstruction of Fort Laurens

Ohio’s history is rich with stories of resilience, innovation, and transformation. While the state officially became a part of the Union in 1803, its roots stretch back to the Revolutionary War era. In 1778, the Continental Army constructed Fort Laurens along the Tuscarawas River as a strategic outpost to challenge British forces in Detroit and their Native American allies. Built by soldiers from Pennsylvania and Virginia over just 10 days, this small fort was one of the few Revolutionary War-era structures in Ohio. Though it lasted only 10 months before being disbanded, it remains a vital piece of the state’s historical narrative.

Today, efforts are underway to rebuild what site manager calls “our most tangible link to the Revolution.” This initiative is part of the country’s semiquincentennial celebration, marking 250 years since the founding of the United States. The reconstruction project aims to restore the fort’s original footprint, which spanned approximately one square acre, complete with bastions on the corners for added protection. Visitors will eventually be able to walk among the walls and experience what the fort looked like during the war.

This coming weekend, anyone can contribute to the effort by participating in an archaeological dig in Bolivar. The project not only preserves history but also invites community involvement, ensuring that the past is remembered and honored by future generations.

Other Highlights from Northeast Ohio

As the region continues to evolve, several key developments are making headlines:

• Historic Courthouse Expansion: Geauga County is completing a $21 million expansion of its historic Chardon Square courthouse. The project doubles the size of the building while incorporating modern security and accessibility upgrades, all while preserving its 19th-century character.

• CVNP Murder Case: The case of Chelsea Perkins, who killed a man in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, has sparked discussions about the trauma faced by victims when reports of rape lead to no arrests. Activists and legal experts are calling for better support systems for survivors.

• Government Transparency: With Ohio preparing for another round of redistricting, activists are pushing for full transparency. However, legislative leaders from both parties argue that some negotiations must remain behind closed doors.

• Tax Breaks Controversy: A new report reveals that Ohio hands out over $12 billion annually in tax breaks. This has led to bipartisan calls for a review of whether these incentives serve the public or benefit special interests.

• Political Shifts: Governor Mike DeWine, once a strong advocate against gerrymandering, now appears to be taking a more passive stance as the state braces for another potentially biased map.

Local News and Community Updates

• Oakar Dies: Mary Rose Oakar, a trailblazing lawmaker known for her work in advancing women’s economic equality, passed away at the age of 85 in Cleveland. Her legacy continues to inspire those fighting for gender equity.

• Medicare Pilot Program: A new Medicare pilot program in Ohio uses AI to determine whether seniors receive certain pain treatments. Critics worry that cost-cutting algorithms could delay or deny necessary care.

• Voter Registration Efforts: The League of Women Voters of Ohio is conducting a mobile voter registration drive at two Northeast Ohio universities. The event includes music, snacks, and interactive activities aimed at encouraging student participation in elections.

• New Legislation: Ohio lawmakers are proposing changes to the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency, which plays a significant role in shaping the region’s transportation network. The proposed bill would shift power over highway projects from Cleveland and Cuyahoga County to surrounding suburban counties.

• Rail Plan Debate: U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes is urging Governor DeWine to reconsider excluding Akron-Canton from the state’s 2025 rail plan, highlighting the region’s economic potential.

Environmental and Health News

• False Fall Weather: Northeast Ohio has experienced unusually cool temperatures, leading to speculation about the cause and how long the trend might last.

• Behavioral Health Center Funding: Cuyahoga County is considering a $7 million funding request for a new Behavioral Health Center. While the facility could improve crisis care services, county council is concerned about long-term financial sustainability.

• Housing Development: Cleveland Heights is exploring proposals to transform nearly a third of its vacant lots into single-family homes. Two development groups, FutureHeights and YRM, are looking to purchase and develop city-owned lots.

• Safety Beacons: Lorain County officials have announced plans to install safety lighting on towers as part of a new emergency communication network. The decision follows concerns raised by residents about the lack of lighting on existing structures.

Business and Crime Updates

• Park Attendance: Six Flags, owner of Cedar Point, saw a 3% increase in August attendance after an early season dip. CEO Richard Zimmerman remains optimistic about the company’s future.

• Food Safety Recall: Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op recently issued recalls for over 5,000 pounds of cheese due to potential listeria contamination. Consumers are advised to discard or return affected products.

• Bar Closure Challenge: Play Bar & Grill in Cleveland is contesting its closure in court after a shooting injured six people. The bar’s owner claims the closure was arbitrary, while city officials cite previous violent incidents.

• Jury Verdict: A Shaker Heights man was found guilty of raping and kidnapping six women after luring them with fake job offers. He used escort websites to contact victims and assaulted them in Cleveland hotels.

• Attempted Kidnapping: A man accused of attempting to kidnap a teen from a bus stop in Strongsville was indicted on abduction charges. The incident occurred on September 5 involving a 15-year-old girl.

• Suspect Arrested: Federal authorities arrested Verdine Glover, 43, in connection with a deadly shooting in Cleveland. He was taken into custody by members of the Northern Violent Fugitive Task Force.

• Treatment Decision: A Cuyahoga County judge is considering whether to keep accused cop killer De’Lawnte Hardy in a state mental hospital beyond a year.

• Bar Shooting: Two people were shot outside a bar on Cleveland’s East Side. Paramedics responded to Peoples Bar and Grill shortly after 1 a.m.

• Police Chase: A 32-year-old Akron man was arrested after a domestic dispute escalated into a vehicle chase and crash in Barberton.

Arts and Entertainment

• Restaurant Acquisition: Hangry Brands has acquired Danny’s on Professor in Tremont. The restaurant group plans to transform the space into “Danny’s Breakroom,” inspired by a corporate atmosphere.

• Cleveland Breakfast Spots: Juneberry Table and The Judith are beloved neighborhood cafes known for their unique atmospheres and delicious menus, offering everything from spelt pancakes to French toast.

• Happy Hour Destination: Velvet Tango Room offers a moody, romantic vibe perfect for date nights. The venue also features classic cocktails and candlelight, making it an ideal spot for Happy Hour.

• Weird Al Performance: After more than 40 years of parody and musical humor, “Weird Al” Yankovic made a memorable appearance at Blossom, delighting fans with his signature blend of comedy and music.

• Eric Clapton Review: Eric Clapton delivered a blues-heavy performance at Rocket Arena, reaffirming his status as a rock legend with a career-spanning set.

• Strongman Competition: Northern Ohio is hosting the Strongman Champions League, a global competition of strength and showmanship. The event will take place in Toledo and Sandusky on September 19 and 20.

• Cooking School Opens: Buttercream & Olive Oil, a cooking school focused on organic and sustainable practices, has opened a new location in North Royalton. The school will celebrate its grand opening with three days of special events.

House of the Week

A 1926 Tudor home in Cleveland Heights, priced at $2.175 million, is featured as this week’s House of the Week. The four-bedroom property blends historic charm with modern luxury, showcasing architectural elegance from Cleveland’s early 20th-century affluent neighborhoods.