The true heyday for Akron's historic district was in the 1920s when it was known to be the crossroads of downtown. Geographically speaking, the north end of the city was situated along the Canal Valley Rail Line that linked Cleveland, Akron and Canton. Thus, this area served as the front door to the city and was home to an abundance of farmers markets, banks, shops and cultural landmarks.

Little known facts about Akron's Historic District:

•  The Everett Building was first erected in 1871 to house the Academy of Music, which once showcased the talents of Sarah Bernhardt, the infamous French songstress and artistic muse to Art Nouveau powerhouse Alphonse Mucha.

•  The Everett Building burned in 1898 but was resurrected by railroad financier Sylvester Everett to become an opera house. It has since housed the offices of two banks, an appliance store and Ohio Edison.

•  The Hermes Building was originally constructed to house an horology institute, which was used to teach men and women how to make watches.

•  The United Building was home of the 1920s United Cigar Co.

•  In 1899, the original Nantucket Building burned down and was rebuilt as a courthouse by Judge W.B. Doyle.

At one time, Buffalo Bill, John Wilkes Booth's brother Edwin Booth and Sarah Berhardt walked the streets of Akron, enjoyed its venues and left their legacies behind in the city's buildings. These days may be gone...but the stories have been preserved through generations and reflected in the respectful rejuvenation of the historic district.