Tallmadge, OH
- About the City
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Tallmadge is a historic suburban city in Ohio, known for its unique Town Circle, a National Register historic district, and its strong sense of community.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Tallmadge, Ohio.
- Administrative Role: Tallmadge is a suburban city and the second-oldest settlement in Summit County. While the vast majority of the city lies within Summit County, a small portion extends into neighboring Portage County, a result of historical annexation . It is part of the Akron Metropolitan Statistical Area.
- Location: The city is located in the northeastern part of the state of Ohio, in a region historically known as the Connecticut Western Reserve . Today, it is an integral part of the greater Akron area.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Town 2, Range 10: Before being named, the settlement was known by this surveyors' designation as part of the Connecticut Western Reserve .
- The Circle: The city is so closely identified with its historic central traffic roundabout that "The Circle" serves as its most prominent and enduring nickname. It is considered one of the most recognizable map landmarks in Ohio .
- Motto: "History Moving Forward." This motto reflects the city's pride in its deep roots while embracing modern growth and community life .
Date of Foundation and Age
Tallmadge was founded in 1807 by Reverend David Bacon, a missionary from Connecticut . As of 2026, the city is 219 years old. Reverend Bacon envisioned a religious utopia in the wilderness, and he laid out the town's distinctive plan with a central public square, modeled after New England designs of the time .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 41°06′49″N 81°25′10″W (41.11361, -81.41944) .
- Positioning: Tallmadge is situated on the eastern border of Summit County, approximately 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) east of downtown Akron. It is surrounded by the cities of Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, Stow, and Kent . It lies on the Allegheny Plateau, characterized by gently rolling hills.
- Elevation: The center of the city sits at an elevation of approximately 364 meters (1,194 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Tallmadge is primarily a residential suburb and a historically significant small city. Its economy is typical of a bedroom community, with many residents commuting to Akron and other nearby cities for work. Key local economic elements include:
- Local Commerce: A mix of homegrown businesses and national chains serve the community, including the long-standing Henry Bierce Supply Co. (since 1910) and the locally-owned natural market Seven Grains .
- Heritage Tourism: Its historic district, anchored by the Tallmadge Circle, attracts visitors interested in Ohio's early settlement history and architecture.
- Retail: The city is home to a large retail store of Summit Racing Equipment, a major international marketer of automotive performance parts .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the city's population was 18,394 .
- City Classification: Based on its population, Tallmadge is considered a small city.
- Demographic Snapshot: The city has a predominantly residential character with a mix of families and older adults. The median age is 45.1 years (as of 2010), reflecting a mature community . The average one-way commute time for residents is 22.1 minutes, shorter than the national average .
City's "Business Card" (In Brief)
Tallmadge is a historic New England-style settlement in the heart of Ohio, instantly recognizable by its unique and historic Town Circle. It offers a charming glimpse into the past with its 19th-century church and town hall, all while functioning as a quiet, family-oriented suburb of Akron .
Landmarks
The Historic Tallmadge Circle
The undisputed heart and symbol of the city is the Tallmadge Circle, one of the most distinctive traffic features in Ohio. It is not merely a roundabout but a historic public square laid out by the city's founder, Rev. David Bacon, in 1807. Eight roads radiate from it like spokes, named according to their compass direction (e.g., Northeast Ave., Southwest Ave.) . This radial grid and the central green are a direct reflection of the New England town design that the early settlers brought with them to the Connecticut Western Reserve . The entire circle, including its central park and historic buildings, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on May 6, 1971 .
Historic Tallmadge Church (First Congregational Church)
Located within the Circle Park, this iconic church is a masterpiece of Federal architecture. Built in 1825 from timber donated by local landowners, it was designed by Col. Lemuel Porter, one of Ohio's first architects . It is considered a perfect example of a pure Connecticut-type meetinghouse and was featured on the cover of the November 20, 1944, edition of Life magazine . The congregation used the building until 1969, and it is now managed by the City of Tallmadge and can be rented for events like weddings .
Old Town Hall and Museum
Also standing proudly in the Circle Park, the Old Town Hall was erected in 1859 for $2,800 . Its second floor originally housed a private academy that served students from across northeast Ohio until 1876 . Over the years, the building served as council chambers, the mayor's office, and even the police department . Today, it is home to the Tallmadge Historical Society and its museum. The museum, with its charming "mini street of shops," preserves and displays artifacts from the city's past .
Other Historic Structures in the Circle Park
The park at the center of the Circle is also home to several other notable landmarks :
- The Centennial Stone: Placed in 1889 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of George Washington's first inauguration.
- First Cabin Monument: A relocated monument that originally marked the site of the first cabin built in Tallmadge in 1807.
- Tallmadge Veterans Memorial: A monument dedicated to the city's veterans.
Schenkenberger House Museum
Located at 35 Southwest Avenue, this house was built in 1847 by Frederic Schenkenberger, a German immigrant . Saved from demolition in 2000, it was restored as a joint project between the city and the historical society and opened as a museum in 2007. It provides a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century Tallmadge family .
Old Tallmadge Cemetery
A short distance south of the Circle on South Avenue, this historic cemetery contains unique features that speak to 19th-century funeral practices :
- The Waiting Room: A small white building where mourners who did not attend the funeral service could wait for the procession to arrive. The current structure dates from 1923.
- The Stone Vault: A stone vault from 1881 used to store caskets during the winter months when the frozen ground made grave digging impossible.
Transport
Public Transportation
Tallmadge is served by the METRO Regional Transit Authority, which provides bus routes connecting the city to Akron and the surrounding Summit County area . This public transport option offers residents and visitors a way to navigate the region without a personal vehicle.
Major Highways
For those traveling by car, Tallmadge has excellent access to the regional highway network. Interstate 76, a major east-west interstate, passes through the city and can be seen from the Summit Racing Equipment store . State Route 8 also runs through Tallmadge, providing a direct north-south route that connects to Akron and other nearby communities . The famous Tallmadge Circle itself is the junction of State Routes 91 and 261 .
Ride-Sharing and Taxis
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Tallmadge, providing on-demand transportation within the city and to nearby destinations . Popular local destinations requested via Uber include major retailers like Walmart and Target, as well as local spots like the Summit Racing Equipment store . Taxi services are also available for trips within the region, including to cities like Cleveland .
Airports
While Tallmadge does not have its own commercial airport, it is conveniently located for access to several major hubs.
- Akron-Canton Airport (CAK): Located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) south, this is a convenient regional airport.
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE): Located about 64 kilometers (40 miles) north, this is the region's largest full-service airport. Uber and other services operate from CLE, with a surcharge for pickups .
Walkability and Trails
While much of the city is laid out for automobile travel, there are options for alternative transportation. The Freedom Trail, a 4.2-mile multi-use path, connects the Tallmadge Circle area to the nearby city of Kent . Additionally, the Tallmadge Meadows section of the Munroe Falls Metro Park offers trails for hiking and walking through natural areas .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Tallmadge offers a slice of classic American dining, with a focus on hearty, family-friendly fare found in its local taverns and diners .
Wally Waffle
A beloved local staple, Wally Waffle is the go-to spot for breakfast and brunch in the Tallmadge area . Known for its buttery waffles, fluffy omelets, and eggs Benedict, this modern diner offers a casual and fun atmosphere. It's a perfect place to start your day with a satisfying meal before exploring the area .
Sammie's Bar and Grill
For a true taste of local flavor, Sammie's Bar and Grill is a family-friendly establishment known for its warm and welcoming vibe . The menu features American and Italian favorites, with popular dishes including their "Sammie burger," greasy wings, and beer-marinated shrimp. The generous portions and the jovial service from the staff make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors .
West Ave Tavern
A local favorite under new ownership, West Ave Tavern offers a classic tavern experience with a menu of mouthwatering burgers, wings, and crowd-favorite onion rings . The tavern is known for its garlic parm wings and a cozy atmosphere adorned with local memorabilia. It's an ideal place for a casual family dinner or to watch a game at the bar, especially with a patio for warm-weather dining .
Museums
Tallmadge is rich in local history, with several museums and historic sites dedicated to preserving its heritage from the early 19th century .
Tallmadge Historical Society at Old Town Hall
Located on the green of the historic Tallmadge Circle, the Old Town Hall has been the home of the Tallmadge Historical Society since 1971 . This building, erected in 1859, served as the town's hub for public meetings, council chambers, and even an academy. Today, the second floor is a charming museum transformed into a "mini street of shops" with a "village green," filled with Tallmadge artifacts and period pieces. The first floor is available for community events .
Schenkenberger House Museum
The Schenkenberger House Museum, located at 35 Southwest Avenue, is a historic home built in 1847 . Saved from demolition by the City of Tallmadge and the Historical Society, this house offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. It was dedicated as a museum in 2007 during the city's Bicentennial celebration and is open to the public on select days .
Historic Sites at Tallmadge Circle Park
The Tallmadge Circle is not just a traffic feature but a National Register Historic District and an open-air museum in itself . The park is home to:
- The Historic First Congregational Church: Dedicated in 1825, this is considered a perfect example of Federal architecture and is the oldest church in Ohio continuously occupied as a place of worship .
- The Old Town Hall: The museum itself is a key historic structure within the circle .
- Historic Monuments: The park also contains the relocated monument marking the site of the first cabin in Tallmadge (1807) and the Tallmadge Veterans Memorial .
Munroe Falls Historical Society
Located in Tallmadge, the Munroe Falls Historical Society (MFHS) is dedicated to preserving the history of the neighboring community of Munroe Falls . The MFHS has a library, archives, and a museum with displays of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the local area. It hosts events like the annual Munroe Falls Historic Home Tour .
Sport and Sports Legends
Tallmadge is home to a remarkable and inspiring high school sports legacy, particularly in adaptive athletics .
Tallmadge High School Wheelchair Basketball
The Tallmadge High School wheelchair basketball team is a powerhouse in Ohio adaptive sports . The team has achieved incredible success, winning three consecutive Ohio Interscholastic Adaptive Sports (OIAS) state titles and entering championship games undefeated . They are led by standout player TaShaun Myers. The team's success has brought them to play at prominent venues like Cleveland Public Hall for state championship games, which are sometimes preceded by exhibitions featuring U.S. Paralympians .
High School Cross Country
Tallmadge High School also has an active cross country program, competing in events such as the Walsh Jesuit Tomahawk Run and OHSAA regional competitions .
Universities and Educational Institutions
While Tallmadge itself is a smaller city, it is strategically located within a short drive of several major universities and colleges in Northeast Ohio .
Major Universities Near Tallmadge
Students and academics have a wealth of prestigious options within a 5- to 20-mile radius of Tallmadge :
- University of Akron Main Campus: A large public research university located just 5 miles away, offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs .
- Kent State University at Kent: A major public research university, also about 5 miles from Tallmadge, known for its strong programs in journalism, fashion, and various other fields .
- Case Western Reserve University: Located in Cleveland, this is the top-ranked university in the area (#49 nationally), renowned for its engineering, medicine, and research programs .
Community Colleges and Specialized Schools
For those seeking two-year degrees or specialized training, several institutions are nearby:
- Stark State College: A public community college in North Canton, about 16 miles away, noted for its affordability .
- Fortis College Cuyahoga Falls and Herzing University Akron Campus offer career-focused programs just a few miles from Tallmadge .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Tallmadge provides essential healthcare services to its community, primarily through skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers .
Heather Knoll Retirement Village
Located at 1134 North Ave., Heather Knoll Retirement Village is a medium-sized facility offering both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care . It has an overall rating of 3 out of 5 from U.S. News & World Report, with its short-term rehabilitation program rated "As Expected." The facility is noted for being "High Performing" in health outcomes and care processes . It provides 24/7 skilled nursing care and physical therapy, with data showing that a high percentage of its short-term residents are able to return home .
Tallmadge Health & Rehab Center
Situated at 619 Northwest Avenue, the Tallmadge Health & Rehab Center is another skilled nursing facility in the city . This for-profit corporation operates 90 certified beds and participates in both Medicare and Medicaid programs, serving the community's long-term care and rehabilitation needs .
Nearby Major Hospitals
For acute care and specialized medical services, residents of Tallmadge have access to world-class hospitals in nearby Akron and Cleveland, including the renowned Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals health systems.