Middlefield, OH
County: Geauga
History
Middlefield, Ohio is a small village located in northeastern Ohio's Geauga County. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when settlers began to arrive in the area. The first settlers were primarily of Pennsylvanian Dutch origin, and Middlefield was originally known as 'Middlefield Center,' reflecting its location between the nearby towns of Parkman and Burton.
The community's growth was initially slow, with the few settlers primarily engaged in farming and lumbering. However, with the arrival of the railroad in 1873, Middlefield began to experience significant development. This new mode of transportation allowed for easier exportation of the abundant lumber resources and brought an influx of new residents and businesses to the area.
One key milestone in Middlefield's history occurred in 1915 when the village incorporated and formed its own local government. With this step, Middlefield gained more control over its own affairs and began to make improvements to its infrastructure, including the construction of roads and sidewalks.
In the 20th century, Middlefield experienced steady growth and became a center of Amish and Swiss communities. The Amish population played a significant role in shaping the village's identity, contributing to its unique cultural heritage. Today, Middlefield is often referred to as the heart of Ohio's fourth-largest Amish community.
The village has also embraced its Amish heritage, with several Amish-owned businesses and shops located in the area. Middlefield is known for its Amish furniture stores, produce stands, and cheese markets, attracting visitors from both near and far.
In recent years, Middlefield has continued to thrive as a close-knit community with a strong sense of tradition and community engagement. It boasts a variety of local festivals, events, and charitable activities that celebrate its history and traditions.
Overall, Middlefield's history has been shaped by its early settlers, the arrival of the railroad, and the influence of the Amish community. Today, it remains a vibrant village that honors its past while embracing economic development and growth.
Attractions
The Green Owl
A popular restaurant known for its homemade ice cream and Amish-style meals.
Middlefield Cheese House
A cheese shop that offers a wide variety of local and imported cheeses, as well as other gourmet food products.
Mary Yoder's Amish Kitchen
A traditional Amish restaurant serving homemade meals and desserts.
The Great Geauga County Fair
An annual fair held in Middlefield, featuring livestock exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and food vendors.
End of the Commons General Store
Established in 1840, this historic general store sells a variety of goods and Amish-made products.
Swine Creek Reservation
A local park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing opportunities.
Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op
A cheese manufacturing facility offering guided tours and the opportunity to sample and purchase a variety of cheeses.
Yankee Candle Village
Located nearby in South Deerfield, this flagship store features a vast selection of scented candles, home decor, and seasonal items.
Middlefield Historical Society and Museum
A small museum showcasing the history and artifacts of Middlefield and its surrounding areas.
Middlefield Market
A large outdoor flea market held on the grounds of the former Geauga Lake amusement park, offering a wide range of vendors and products.
Climate
The climate of Middlefield, Ohio can be characterized as humid continental. This climate type typically experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters.
Summers in Middlefield are generally warm and humid, with average highs in the mid to upper 80s°F (around 30°C) in June, July, and August. Temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s°F (32-37°C) during heatwaves. Humidity levels can contribute to the heat discomfort, especially in July and August.
Winters in Middlefield are cold, with average highs in the mid to upper 30s°F (1-4°C) in December, January, and February. Snow is common during the winter months, and the area typically receives an average of around 50 inches (127 cm) of snow annually. Temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional dips into the single digits or even below zero Fahrenheit (-18°C).
Spring and autumn in Middlefield are typically mild to cool, with temperatures gradually transitioning between the extremes of summer and winter. Spring can be particularly unpredictable, with temperature fluctuations and occasional rain showers. Autumn is characterized by cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage as the leaves change color.
The annual precipitation in Middlefield averages around 45 inches (114 cm), which is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. This means that rainfall can be expected throughout all seasons, with no significant dry period.
Overall, Middlefield experiences a true representation of the four seasons, with warm summers, cold winters, and mild springs and autumns.
Neighborhoods
Middlefield, OH is a quaint village located in Geauga County. It is known for its strong Amish and Swiss heritage, as well as its beautiful countryside and small-town charm. While Middlefield itself is a small community, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within the village and its nearby areas:
Downtown Middlefield
This is the heart of the village, offering a variety of local businesses, shops, and restaurants. You can find a range of Amish and Swiss goods here, including handmade furniture, crafts, and delicious cheese.
West Middlefield
Located west of downtown, this neighborhood consists of mostly residential areas with a mix of older homes and newer developments. It is a peaceful and family-friendly area, known for its strong community feel.
East Middlefield
Situated east of downtown, this neighborhood is also primarily residential. It offers a bit more space and larger properties than the west side. There are several parks and green spaces in this area, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Huntsburg
Although not officially a part of Middlefield, Huntsburg is a neighboring township located just a few miles east. It is a rural area with picturesque countryside views, farms, and rolling hills. Huntsburg is known for its annual Maple Festival, celebrating the region's maple syrup production.
Mesopotamia
Similar to Huntsburg, Mesopotamia is not directly in Middlefield but is a township nearby. It is another rural area with Amish farms and a strong agricultural presence. The town hosts an annual Antique Tractor Show, attracting enthusiasts from all over.
Overall, the neighborhoods in and around Middlefield offer a blend of tight-knit communities, rural landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you're looking for a peaceful countryside retreat or a vibrant small-town experience, Middlefield and its surrounding areas have something to offer.