The First Wednesday Series

The Upton Association’s “First Wednesday” speaker series will feature a presentation by John Kudley entitled Geauga Lake Amusement Park – A Nostalgic Look Back on May 7 at the Upton House. The free program begins at 10:00, with refreshments beginning at 9:30. John Kudley is Director of the Aurora Historical Society & Museum. John earned Masters Degrees from Kent State University in American History and in Secondary Education Administration. He is a retired teacher, having taught and coached in the Aurora City Schools for 35 years. John as written numerous articles on the history of Aurora and has published More Than a Landmark, A History of the Church in Aurora, 1809-2009. His program focuses on the early history of the park as it grew from a popular picnic park into a family-oriented amusement park in the 1920s. Based upon the diaries of Harry Hammond, Cleveland attorney and the primary “brains” behind the development of the park along with historic photos, the program provides the audience with a sentimental look at what was once one of Ohio’s premier amusement parks. The Upton House is located at 380 Mahoning Avenue in Warren. For more information call 330-395-1840 or visit http://www.uptonhouse.org.