Who We Are
Background
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A little house with an inspiring story stands at West Streetsboro and Oviatt roads in Richfield Heritage Preserve. Built in 1836 by Mason Oviatt and his wife Fanny Carter Oviatt, Oviatt House is one of the oldest houses in Richfield, Ohio and has ties to the Underground Railroad and the American abolitionist John Brown.
In late 2019, the Oviatt house was slated for demolition. In 2020, a group of concerned citizens banded together in an attempt to save the Oviatt house. With strong community backing and a lot of hard work, the decision to raze the house was rescinded! |
Oviatt House located in Richfield Heritage Preserve in Richfield, Ohio.
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Oviatt House Inc. (OHI)
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In 2021, Oviatt House Incorporated was formed. Oviatt House Inc. (OHI) has contracted with the Richfield Joint Recreation District (the governing body of Richfield Heritage Preserve) to restore the Oviatt house and to operate it as an educational museum.
LEARN MORE: Our Story |
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Funding for the restoration of Oviatt House is provided by contributions from generous individuals and organizations interested in historic preservation and education. Volunteer work is also an important part of our journey to success.
LEARN MORE: Get Involved
Oviatt House Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. One hundred percent of the money collected goes directly toward restoration, preservation, and museum development of this historic landmark.
LEARN MORE: Get Involved
Oviatt House Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. One hundred percent of the money collected goes directly toward restoration, preservation, and museum development of this historic landmark.
our mission
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Oviatt House Incorporated (OHI) is committed to restoring and preserving the historic Oviatt House located in Richfield Heritage Preserve to honor its significant ties to the Underground Railroad, preserve the pioneer spirit of the Western Reserve, and inspire the community and future generations to celebrate the freedom it represents. HONOR • PRESERVE • INSPIRE |
Our Vision
Oviatt House provides a welcoming museum experience that immerses visitors in the history of the Oviatt house, its occupants, and their role in the Underground Railroad. Through partnerships and community involvement, we invite guests to connect with the past, reflect on freedom's struggle, and inspire introspection and movement toward a more equitable society.
