What is a "volksmarch?" A volksmarch is an organized hike or walk which usually covers a distance of 5, 10 or 20 kilometers. The trail usually goes through woods or near historic or scenic areas. It is designed to appeal to everyone and it is not a contest of speed or endurance. Volksmarching (walking) is good exercise and encourages outdoor physical activity for people of all ages and physical condition. It is a great family activity, it is lots of fun and provides an opportunity to make new friends from all over. Volksmarching is extremely popular in European countries and this popular form of leisure sports has spread to 25 countries. To learn more about this exciting family-friendly sport, visit the Cleveland-based Valley Vagabonds, the American Volksport Association or the Internationaler Volksportverband.
Learn about the origins of certain street names, backgrounds of buildings, former estates of the wealthy, and murder most foul!
The
Lakewood History Walk is a 6-mile route (or alternate 3-mile route)
starting and ending at the Lakewood Main Library, 15425 Detroit Avenue. It’s
an easy route, primarily on sidewalks, and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Library Operating Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. - 9 p.m. Closed major holidays. Parking is on street or in city lot across from the library. Parking behind the library is at a premium.
Trail Length & Rating: 10Km, Rated 1+. This interesting historical trail takes you through the community with fascinating history facts and pictures.
See brochure for 2007.
2007 AWARD: A beautiful patch featuring hiking boots.
Registration and Fees: Register in guest book, take start card, do walk, and on return, pay appropriate fees (payment by check to "Valley Vagabonds"). A $6.00 fee includes patch award and IVV credit in the Distance and Event books for the "A" award, "B" award - free while they last. There is no charge if you do not wish an award or IVV credit, but everyone must register and turn the card in at the finish.
To start the walk, pick up a route pamphlet, which includes historic information of sites along the route, at the Lakewood Public Library's Main Library Circulation Desk (15425 Detroit Avenue).
This Lakewood History Walk was organized by the Lakewood Public Library, The Lakewood Historical Society and the Valley Vagabonds in August, 2003.
Pictured: Bay Window at Lakewood Public Library.
The
2005 History Walk focused on the Clifton Park area of Lakewood, a neighborhood
bordering the Rocky River, Lake Erie and Clifton Boulevard. The area is known
for many stately homes, beautiful gardens and winding streets.
The walk was originally held as an event in August, 2005 -- the Third Annual Lakewood Volksmarch coinciding with the Lakewood Arts Festival. It is now open to anyone to enjoy at any time -- just pick up your route packet and start walking!
The walk begins and ends at the Main Branch of the Lakewood Public Library (15425 Detroit Avenue). Walkers can choose either the full 10K walk or a shorter 5K route. The walk is easy, primarily on sidewalks, and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
The route pamphlet, including historic information of sites along the route, is available at the Lakewood Main Library (15425 Detroit Avenue).
Pictured: Currently the oldest house in Clifton Park, built in 1899.