Loveland

In 1848, William Ramsey, a son-in-law of Colonel Paxton, signed a contract to buy 189 acres of land in Warren and Clermont Counties for $7,300. This land was eventually named “Loveland,” after James Loveland, who operated a general store and post office near the downtown railroad tracks. The town’s location at the junction of the Little Miami Railroad (built in 1853), which provided service from Cincinnati to Xenia, was a significant cause of population growth as Cincinnati commuters passed through the river town each day.

The Little Miami River, which separates Clermont and Hamilton Counties, was a limiting factor to growth in the area until the construction of a bridge in 1872. Due to this barrier, the areas on each side of the river were once referred to as “East” and “West” Loveland. The Little Miami River was also the cause of notable floods occurring in 1913 and in 1959. This issue was remedied in 1962, when a levee and channel were constructed to reduce the water levels and possibility of major flooding.

On May 16, 1876, Loveland was incorporated as a village with a population of less than 800 residents. After a population spike in the 1950s, Loveland became a city with an adopted charter in 1961. In the 1980s, the idle Little Miami Railroad passage was converted into a bike trail and became part of the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail in 1984.

source: en.wikipedia.org

Over 100 retail businesses in Loveland serve all immediate needs for food, clothing and furniture. The Historic Downtown district offers charming local boutiques, galleries and cafes to frequent and enjoy. Loveland boasts one arts facility per 1000 residents. Kenwood Square (formerly Sycamore Plaza) and Kenwood Towne Centre are 15 minutes away, offering even more shopping options including Nordstrom, Macy’s and Dillard’s.

The Little Miami Bike Trail is very popular and follows along the scenic Little Miami River. There are several baseball fields, basketball courts and tennis courts, along with the various school facilities that afford play areas for children. The Loveland Youth Organization is very active and offers a wide range of sport activities including baseball, softball, soccer, basketball and football for children starting as early as five years old.

Nearby golf courses include the private O’Bannon Creek and Oasis Country Club, public Hickory Woods, Eagles Nest and Fair Acres courses. The Normandy Swim Club has a limited membership and there is year-round roller skating available in facilities located in Loveland.

The iconic Loveland Castle & Museum Chateau Laroche welcomes more than 25,000 visitors each year. Downtown Loveland transforms into a Victorian village during the holiday season. In addition to this annual event, residents of Loveland also enjoy a yearly art show, Memorial Day Parade, Firecracker Festival, and Valentine Breakfast, to name a few.

Loveland has several parks to enjoy: C. Roger Nisbet is located near the Miami Scenic Trail and is in the historic part of town and features an amphitheater. Phillips Park, East Loveland Nature Preserve and Veterans’ Memorial Park are three other parks to enjoy.

For those who enjoy the arts, in addition to the many art studios located in Loveland, residents also enjoy live performances at the Loveland Stage Company. From dance classes to musical performances, there is something for all ages to enjoy.

Want to go back in time? Head to the Loveland Museum Center and learn about Ohio pioneers, the Victorian era and the industrial revolution.