In recent years, Cleveland has undergone a fantastic transformation. Once-struggling communities have been reinvented as havens for artists and dreamers, and their culture is finer than ever. However, parts of Greater Cleveland have not enjoyed quite so much growth, like Elderwood in East Cleveland. Some have actually experienced the opposite, sinking deeper into destruction day by day. Prepare to take a virtual tour through one of East Cleveland's mysteriously abandoned neighborhoods, because Elderwood in Cleveland is one place you won't want to visit in person. One might ask, "Why is Elderwood in Cleveland abandoned?" Let's find out.
Once upon a time, Elderwood was a happy community in East Cleveland full of life and laughter...
At one point, the structures in this neighborhood were new, sparkling, and beautiful testaments to the hope felt by those who lived there.
...Until a fire in the 1990s changed everything.
Locals chalk the neighborhood's abandonment up to a fire, but tax delinquency likely played a role in its ultimate demise as well.
The community became a run-down shadow of its former self, and everyone seemed to simply pack up and leave toward the end of its life.
Now, the entire neighborhood looks like a war zone.
Abandoned buildings are crumbling. Garbage is scattered across the street. Entire roofs have completely collapsed.
Some of the dilapidated spaces are used by squatters, but other than an occasional light in a window or a curiously parked car, the neighborhood shows hardly any signs of life.
Unfortunately, this has led to a large increase in crime throughout the area. Arson and even murders are on the rise.
In July 2013, three bodies were found in the area, and things have continued to go downhill since.
Neglect and this history of violence and crime have made this neighborhood particularly undesirable, but there is little money available to tear down the buildings and begin revitalization efforts.
As a result, the structures continue to decay day by day, making Elderwood feel like a ghost town with only a mere memory of better days.
Whether fire or foreclosure spelled the end for Elderwood, its crumbling remains grow ever closer to being forgotten entirely.
Please note: Most of the buildings in this neighborhood are still privately owned or owned by the county and are therefore closed to the public. Please respect the property owners and do not attempt to visit without permission. Trespassing is a crime, and the decrepit state of many of these structures makes them unstable and unsafe to enter. The photos above are intended to give you a virtual look inside these abandoned places from a safe - and legal - distance.
Let's explore this dilapidated neighborhood without the risk:
Do you remember Elderwood in Cleveland in its glory days? Are you surprised by the state of Elderwood today? Let us know in the comments.
If you enjoyed this adventure, you'll surely enjoy booking a stay to see these other abandoned places in Cleveland.
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