Episodes

  • Denman Tire Co.
    Jan 2 2025

    Denman Tire Corporation was a Valley mainstay, operating for nearly 100 years in Braceville before finally going out of business in 2010. It was one of the original tire manufacturers that popped up everywhere, especially around Akron, at the dawn of the Automobile Age. Denman employed generations of folks from the area, and many knew the name, yet few knew what the company actually did. Join us with Tim Boyer, a long-time Denman employee, as we explore the history and legacy of Denman Tire.

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    34 mins
  • Center Brook Manor
    Jan 2 2025

    This historic estate, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, dates back to 1845, was once home to the famous abolitionists Charles & Julia Brown, and served as a documented stop on the Underground Railroad. The property includes 110 acres of beautiful gardens, farmland, and orchards, making it a must-visit for history buffs. In this episode, Roger Peterson, owner and steward of Center Brook, talks about the lengthy and continuing process of restoration of the property. Roger also talks about the families that lived on the property throughout the decades and how the house became a stop for Freedom Seekers as they traveled north to Canada.

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    35 mins
  • William McKinley
    Jul 31 2024

    Trumbull County's own William McKinley, born in Niles, Ohio, is certainly remembered in our region. From street names, schools, libraries, and monuments, McKinley left a local legacy. But how much do we actually know about our 25th President? Join us with Belinda Weiss, Museum Director of the National McKinley Birthplace Memorial Museum, as we delve into McKinley's life, politics of the era, and how the museum came to be.

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    39 mins
  • Second Baptist Church
    Jun 18 2024

    Founded in 1916, Second Baptist Church has a long, rich history in Warren, Ohio. From meetings in members' homes to a permanent location on Walnut St in 'The Flats' to their current, expanded site on Main Ave, Second Baptist has served as a social and spiritual center for Warren's Black community for over 100 years. Pastor Todd Johnson joins us to discuss the history behind the church and what he hopes for Second Baptist's future.

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    49 mins
  • Grace AME
    Jun 18 2024

    Recognized as the oldest Black church in Warren, Grace African Methodist Episcopal Church (Grace AME) was founded in 1874. Marking their 150th anniversary in 2024, the church's history is a long one, starting with a dedicated founding circle and expanding to meet the growing needs of their congregation. Rev. Shane K. Floyd joins us to give insights on why AME churches were so important during the 19th century and how the church has changed over time.

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    41 mins
  • Trumbull County Clock Industry
    Apr 30 2024

    Before Trumbull County had iron or steel, clock production was the flourishing industry in this region in the early 19th century. It has been estimated that upwards of 40,000 clocks were produced in Trumbull County in workshops from Vienna to Hartford and Warren. Join us for a conversation with Chris Klingemier, clock collector and historic preservationist, who demystifies wooden-works clocks and reveals how clock makers transformed and bolstered Trumbull County’s early economy.

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    45 mins
  • Italian Immigration in the Mahoning Valley
    Mar 29 2024

    In this episode, our guest Dr. Martha Pallante talks about Italian immigrants who lived and worked in the valley. Our guest shares the experience of her family immigrating from Italy to Ohio–what jobs they worked, traditions created, and lives lived. Dr. Pallante is a professor of Early American History, author, and a leading expert on local history at Youngstown State University. She was born and still lives in Niles, OH.

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    52 mins
  • Earnie Shavers
    Feb 29 2024

    Earnie Shavers was a professional heavyweight boxer who grew up in Braceville. Earnie was known as one of the hardest hitting punchers in boxing history, recording over 70 knockout wins. Joining us for this episode is Earnie’s eldest daughter, Tamara Shavers, who talks not only about his life inside the ring, but more about Earnie the father, husband, and type of person he was and how Braceville influenced him everywhere he went.

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    41 mins