by Kenneth M. Libben (Author)
Nestled among the rolling hills of north-central Ohio, the small town of Loudonville sits on the banks of the Black Fork River. After its establishment in 1814, the village quickly outgrew its humble beginnings. Loudonville, once nicknamed "Gem City," became known for fine craftsmanship of everything from flour to furniture to rifles, and a new generation of inventors and scientists--such as Charles F. Kettering--was born into that atmosphere. In 1913, Hugo H. Young founded the Flxible Company, a leading transportation manufacturer for over 80 years. After World War II, the village came to be recognized not just for its progress but also for its charm. Thousands of people began flocking to town to enjoy the recreational opportunities provided by the forests and rivers that brought the first settlers to the area nearly 200 years ago.