Akron, Ohio, United States

Akron, Ohio, is a city located in Summit County, Ohio, United States, and serves as its county seat. As of the 2020 census, Akron had a population of 190,469, making it the fifth-most populous city in Ohio.

The Akron metropolitan area has an estimated 702,000 residents. Situated on the western edge of the Glaciated Allegheny Plateau in Northeast Ohio, Akron is approximately 40 miles south of downtown Cleveland.

History and Founding

Founded in 1825 by Simon Perkins and Paul Williams along the Little Cuyahoga River at the summit of the developing Ohio and Erie Canal, Akron's name is derived from the Greek word ἄκρον (akron), meaning "summit" or "high point."

The city experienced significant growth in the 1910s, doubling its population and becoming the nation's fastest-growing city at that time.

Industrial Significance

Historically, Akron earned the nickname "Rubber Capital of the World" due to its prominent role in the tire and rubber industry.

Major companies such as Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, B.F. Goodrich, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, and General Tire & Rubber Company were headquartered in Akron, contributing to its industrial prominence.

Economic Diversification and Polymer Industry

In recent years, Akron has diversified its economy, focusing on research and development, particularly in the field of polymers.

The city is home to the Polymer Valley, which consists of over 400 polymer-related companies, with 94 located within Akron itself.

Research institutions like the University of Akron, housing the Goodyear Polymer Center and the National Polymer Innovation Center, play a pivotal role in this sector.

Cultural Scene and Events

Culturally, Akron offers a vibrant arts scene with venues such as the Akron Civic Theatre, a historic movie palace that opened in 1929, and the Akron Art Museum, which features art produced since 1850 along with national and international exhibitions.

The city also hosts annual events like the PGA World Golf Championships at Firestone Country Club and the All-American Soap Box Derby at Derby Downs.

Education

Akron is served by the Akron City School District, which began planning in 1840 to establish free public schools for all children.

The University of Akron, founded in 1870 as Buchtel College, offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research in polymer science.

Locations

• Akron, OH, USA
• Akron, OH, US

Overall, Akron, Ohio, is a city with a rich industrial heritage, a growing focus on research and development, and a vibrant cultural and educational landscape.