Friends of Richfield Heritage Preserve
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The Richfield Heritage Preserve is 336 acres of winding streams, lakes, and forests that had been closed off from the public for over 75 years. It had been farmed by the pioneer Oviatt family and then became the estate of inventor Jim Kirby. During the 1920s Kirby constructed a patented lake, a mill to generate electric power, a house air-conditioned with spring water, and a dance hall built on springs. Upstream, the Neal family built their fairy tale houses and operated a thriving fruit farm. 
The land was purchased by the 
Cleveland Girl Scouts in 1937 and enclosed with a fence for the protection of the girls. 
In 2015, the property was purchased by the citizens of Richfield. It has been transformed into a park for public enjoyment.​ In 2020, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places as the "Camp Crowell Hilaka Historic District".​

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      Being a docent is mostly about being friendly to the public. 
Most people have seen pictures of mills, but have no idea what they are about.  Most are be happy with a brief explanation. This training session will give you the background (and a cheat sheet!) for more. 
              No commitment needed, just to come to the class. 
This is an all outdoor session, covering mill history & legend, Kirby's story, tips for dealing with the public, and an optional brief tour of the Kirby estate.  Dress for the weather and bring a camp chair.
​   P.S. Students can earn required service hours through the mill docent program!  


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Original content on the Friends website is the property of Friends of Richfield Heritage Preserve. It cannot be used without permission. Permission can usually be obtained by contacting [email protected] and agreeing to attribute www.friendsofrhp.org as the source.

Projects

Kirby's Mill Restoration
Historic Home Stabilization
Native Species Restoration

Contact Us

Friends of Richfield Heritage Preserve
P.O. Box 194 
Richfield, OH 44286-0194
​(Our address change took place in October 2023.  Our former address is the home of our founder who is still very involved in Friends.  He will make sure that any mail sent to the old address will get to the right place!)  
​

[email protected]

​© COPYRIGHT 2020. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
  • Home
  • What's Here
    • Directions
    • The Property >
      • Google Map
      • Video
    • History
    • Maps
    • Nature Sightings
    • Memorials
  • About Us
    • What is a Friends'Group?
    • Reports to the Community
    • MillWrite News
    • Board of Directors
    • Bylaws
    • Board Portal
    • FoCH History
    • Partnership with RJRD
    • Incorporation
  • Get Involved
    • Contact
    • OUr Supporters 2024
    • Our Supporters 2025
    • Kirby's Mill Restoration
    • Education and Outreach
    • Volunteer
    • Donate
  • Events / Hikes