We are our History

Welcome to

The Rocky River Historical Society

Where yesterday’s stories shape tomorrow’s community.

Did you know our town’s story starts all the way back in 1805? That’s when Gideon Granger, a dreamer from Connecticut, stood at the mouth of the Rocky River and imagined a booming port city—even bigger than Cleveland. (Spoiler alert: That didn’t exactly happen.)

But something just as special did. Settlers arrived, and by 1819 we became Rockport Township. Fast-forward to 1903, and we earned our name: the Village of Rocky River. In 1932, we officially became a city—but we’ve always kept that small-town charm.

The Rocky River Historical Society isn’t just about the past—we’re building a vibrant, connected community for the future. Whether you're a lifelong history buff, a curious newcomer, or just someone who loves Rocky River, there’s a place for you here.

🧭 Ways You Can Join the Story:

📚 Become a Member
Support our mission, receive event invites, and get access to exclusive historical goodies.

🛠️ Volunteer Your Time
Help with events, research, digitizing archives, or even just greeting guests at our programs. No petticoat or top hat required!

🖼️ Donate Artifacts or Photos
Have an old postcard, school photo, or family keepsake from Rocky River’s past? We’d love to help preserve it.

🗣️ Share Your Stories
Every neighbor has a memory. Yours might be the missing piece of a bigger story—we’d love to hear it!

💌 Make a Donation
Every dollar helps us protect the past for future generations. Bonus: it feels great.

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