2347 Robinwood Ave, Listing Presented by Judy Stone
The Old West End has one of the largest collections of late Victorian houses in the country. Pass through the area and you'll be in awe of the Colonial, Georgian, Italian Renaissance, Queen Ann, Dutch Colonial, and Arts and Crafts-style architecture lining the streets. The neighborhood stretches 25 blocks with a large portion designated as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. It has a very active association that is dedicated to preserving the historic qualities of the properties, maintaining safety, improving education, and promoting a diverse community. The OWE is truly a unique, immersive area that offers residents many opportunities to become involved with community committees, groups, and boards.
a brief history
The Old West End was platted in 1866. In 1888, Libbey Glass opened in Toledo, OH and Edward Drummond Libbey moved to the area. Libbey would go on to be a founder of the Toledo Museum of Art and served as its president until his death in 1925. He was married to Florence Scott Libbey whose grandfather, Jessup Scott, was a founder of the University of Toledo and an editor at the Toledo Blade. Florence Scott Libbey funded a major expansion to the museum during the Great Depression and the majority of her estate was left as an endowment to the Toledo Museum of Art. Many influential families flocked to the OWE during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The area saw a decline in the 1920s but the residents fought to preserve historic landmarks. Parts of the Old West End were first placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and the boundaries were widened in 1984. In 2008, it was designated a Preserve America Community. This program recognizes communities that protect their heritage, use historic assets for revitalization, and encourage historic resources through education programs.
toledo museum of art
The Toledo Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum that displays nearly 30,000 pieces. It houses a major collection of glass art and 19th and 20th-century European and American art in addition to rare collections. The campus has six buildings situated on nearly 40 acres and exhibits Neoclassical, Art Deco, and Postmodern architecture. The Peristyle, a 1,750-seat concert hall, was added in 1933 and resembles a Greek theater. In 2001, a sculpture garden was added and displays many of the postwar works. The 74,000 square foot Glass Pavilion opened in 2006 to showcase the museum's extensive glass collection. It hosts up to 700 glass blowing exhibitions every year and a variety of community events. TMA is an art education institution that offers classes, workshops, tours, gallery experiences, lectures, and a 90,000-volume art Reference Library. Learn more about the museum's opportunities and events here.
businesses
The Old West End Business Network Group aims to grow businesses in the community "through networking, cross promoting and incorporating all aspects of the OWE." View the current business directory here. Follow events and meetings on the group's Facebook.
annual events
OWE FESTIVAL
For nearly 50 years, the OWE Festival has been a celebration that embodies the artistic expression and diversity of the Old West End. Kicking off the grand parade is the coronation of King Wamba and Queen Sancha, community members chosen for their dedication and involvement in the neighborhood. The festival offers many events including local vendors, home tours, live entertainment, kid's activities, a 5k, an art fair, a Beer Garden, and more! It is held annually during the first weekend of June.
TOURS DE NOEL WINTER FEST
Though the OWE homes are astonishing all year round, there's something particularly special about seeing them decorated for the holidays. The event is sponsored by The Libbey House Foundation and Women of the Old West End and offers a chance to tour the inside of beautifully decorated historic homes. This year they've also added tea rooms and beer/wine tastings on certain days. Some of the extra events are reservation only, so make sure to visit the Women of the Old West End's website for full details.
AUTUMN MARKET
The OWE Autumn Market is held in October and features vendors, artists, neighborhood garage sales, live entertainment, and food trucks. Follow them on Facebook for 2022 updates.
schools
The Old West End is part of Toledo Public Schools and its district has the following schools: Robinson Elementary School, Glenwood Elementary School, Old West End Academy, and Jesup W. Scott High School. Scott is the oldest high school in Toledo. More information can be found at TPS and Ohio School Report Cards.
Visit toledooldwestend.com to learn more about the OWE.
Want to become part of this fantastic community? We don't blame you! Browse OWE homes for sale here. And a fun side note— even if you're not looking to move, you can bring a piece of the Old West End into your home with this awesome coloring book. Click here to purchase this item from Jupmode.
