In the 1770s or 1780s, one man by the name of Thomas Jefferson decided to let his interest in human behavior across cultures run wild. He excavated a burial mound near Monticello, effectively establishing the first known instance of American archaeological study (though he allowed bias to creep in and lead him toward false assumptions, but that's a whole 'nother can of worms). Believe it or not, Cleveland, Ohio, was once covered in burial mounds from the Whittlesey Culture, and while they'd be protected by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act today, they were destroyed early on for the sake of development. Today, the local Whittlesey Culture lives on in the form of artifacts they left elsewhere. One especially famous artifact is one we now know as the Independence Slab, and it's located in a church in Independence, Ohio. The story this unusual artifact tells is fascinating... if only walls could talk!
The Independence Presbyterian Church is a stunning structure with a lot of history.
The congregation that practices here first gathered in 1837, but this stunning building wasn't constructed until 1855. At the time, the Greater Cleveland economy was heavily dependent on local quarrying, so it's no surprise that this gorgeous church was made from local stone.
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With a slate roof and a sandstone foundation and walls, the church is appropriately referred to as "Old Stone Church" in town.
And the church was old when it came back into use. Yes, that's right... this gorgeous building was abandoned for a while. When local quarrying came to a halt, the original congregation disassembled. In 1925, another Presbyterian congregation claimed it, but their growth necessitated a new building. Fortunately, they had the foresight to preserve this historic site. The new building was established on adjacent land, leaving this historic church intact for special occasions.
Today, the church is on the National Register of Historic Places, and its incredible architecture is only partially to thank.
When the nomination form was received in 1976, its reviewers were treated to an overview of the building's intricacies. Hand-cut stones were mentioned, and its nominators called it a "fine example of early stone architecture in northern Ohio and very little is altered." However, it also calls out the church's most unusual feature: a petroglyph from the Whittlesey Culture.
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A petroglyph is an image carved into a rock, essentially, and this one is estimated to be from circa 1000 to 1650 C.E.
Petroglyphs are a rarity in Northeast Ohio, and this one's discovery tells us why. In the National Register nomination form, it's revealed that a large portion of the glyph was likely destroyed before anyone realized what it was. "It is fortunate and unusual that these early masons preserved the finding," the document notes. And it certainly was fortunate! In the era where burial mounds were being destroyed to make way for expansion, someone stopped and thought to preserve this incredible piece of ancient art. And how did they do it? By adding it to the design of the church!
The surviving petroglyphs of the Independence Slab shows carvings of animal footprints, if you look closely.
On page 13 of the old nomination form, a detailed image of the slab also reveals a winding serpent. Finds like this are rare in our area, and a 4-by-7-foot expanse makes this find especially memorable. It's huge, and it might have been even bigger before the quarry workers recognized and preserved its significance.
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The Independence Slab and the church's local significance ultimately secured its spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Local workers quarried the stone for this church's construction. Local craftsmen brought it to life. Plus, one local tribe's art has been permanently preserved here! The designation was well-deserved for the church, and it's an unusual landmark that adds something quaint to the cityscape today.
Sometimes, incredible finds hide in unexpected places.
You can find the church at 6624 W Public Square, Independence, OH, 44131, but the Independence Slab is hidden from view behind a modern addition to the structure. If you're ever lucky enough to enter the building, be sure to see it! Otherwise, this unusual slice of history is best enjoyed through pictures.
Driving past a place like this old church in Independence, Ohio, you'd never imagine that a significant archaeological find is hiding within. However, the Independence Slab is a true testament to the forward-thinking quarry workers, architects, and churchgoers who came together to preserve it in a fascinating way.
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Hoping to see another petroglyph in Northern Ohio? Inscription Rock on Kelleys Island is another point of interest you'll want to know about.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Cleveland has a spectacularly long history. When Connecticut Land Company surveyors carved townships and our beloved City of Cleveland into Connecticut’s Western Reserve in 1796, a tradition of preservation was sparked. Over the years, Clevelanders have done an impressive job of documenting their accomplishments. Today, old photos of Cleveland, Ohio, depict its past and speak volumes about the city’s expansion. The rare and spectacular glimpse into the past that these old Cleveland photos offer will amaze you.
Hundreds of local soldiers line up along Public Square, a small representation of the thousands of troops the region supplied to the Union Army. Public opinion of the war was remarkably divided, but local officials still teamed up to support Lincoln's war.
William Hart came to Cleveland in 1824 to make his fortune. He studied cabinetry and opened his own furniture business. The good-hearted Hart won the love of Elisabeth Kirk. The couple was quite wealthy, and they decided to adopt some of their nephews and a niece: Edwin, Edward, and Emma Hart. The boys joined the family business, and when Emma married Hezekiah Malone, he, too, joined the family business. Hart and Malone became known for producing some of the finest furniture in Cleveland.
On July 4, 1876, the entire country was abuzz with festivity. In Sandusky, a Pound Boat Regatta was hosted as part of the celebration. Fireworks and live music completed the event.
Pictured here is what is thought to be the first electric streetcar in Cleveland. The transportation industry was groundbreaking in Cleveland, and automobiles soon became one of our top industries.
By the mid-19th century, the Flats was considered to be an inhospitable place. Poor Irish immigrants flooded to the area, establishing bars like The Flat Iron. Industry popped up around the area, marking Cleveland as an industrial power, while also polluting the river that would eventually come to develop a sightly different reputation for the city.
This image comes from a mysterious collection of photographs dating back to circa 1897. The child, who is seated in a beautifully ornate carriage, may be a member of the Gaylord family, one of the earliest families to settle in Munroe Falls.
Like the unidentified baby, the identities of these men and their dog have been lost to time. However, they too may be members of the Gaylord family, and may have owned land along the Cuyahoga River.
Bedford has a long history as a depot stop. In fact, one such depot, which dates back to 1882, stands today as a museum. The building would have not have been built yet when this photograph of a train on a railway bridge over Tinker's Creek was snapped.
Peninsula was a bustling city along the Ohio and Erie Canal throughout much of its early history. The area was largely settled by New Englanders, and they brought with them a taste for the beautiful architecture that continues to make Peninsula notable. Its economy was driven by mills, quarries, and boatyards; a history that is still visible today.
10. Restaurant and Bath House at Euclid Beach Park, ca. 1900
From the early 1900s up until 1969, this park is where Clevelanders flocked to cool off in warm, summer weather and ride the rides at the amusement park.
There are many historic pictures of Cleveland's Central High School out there. It was the first public high school in Cleveland. It opened its doors in 1846, sparking controversy. At the time, it was the first school west of the Alleghenies to offer high school education at the public’s expense. The public, it turns out, largely believed that secondary education was a private affair. However, the school would go on to produce the likes of John D. Rockefeller, Langston Hughes, and John L. Severance. The school would move to several buildings throughout the course of its history. In 1912, it was housed in the pictured location on East 55th Street, known at the time as Willson Avenue.
Detroit and Belle Avenue are noticeably flooded in this early snapshot. In late March, a period of unseasonably warm weather settled over Ohio, and rain soon followed. Up to 11 inches of rain fell across a period of four days, and lakes and rivers rose dangerously high. Bridges and levees failed, and a startling amount of water flooded into Ohio's cities. The impact was devastating: entire regions lost power, gas leaks triggered explosions in cities such as Dayton, and many buildings were damaged.
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The history of Northeast Ohio is fascinating. The historic buildings and brick roads hide stories of yore, but these old photos of Cleveland, Ohio, capture the personalities of our predecessors and place us directly in a particular moment in time.
