Breese, Griffith, Farm
a.k.a. Breeswood
2875 Fort Amanda Rd., Lima, OHBreesewood Farm is significant for its architecture and as the most intact residence and farm of an original white settler on Shawnee Indian lands following their forced removal in 1831-32. It is probably the most outstanding homestead in Allen County.
Many legends relate the early history of this farm with the Shawnee Hog Creek Reservation. Giffith Breese, born in Wales in 1790, came north from Paddys Run, a Welsh community in Butler County, Ohio, but did not become a part of the community being established in Sugar Creek, Putnam County. Histories report Giffith Breese lived in the Shawnee Council House until the sale of Reservation lands in 1833. Seven Indian cabins were on the land, evidently part of a Shawnee village. Mr. Breese first purchased these 80 acres in Section 10 and added tracts in other sections until he owned 1100 acres. Family stories tell of an Indian princess being buried on the land shortly before the march West. The Indians were said to have gathered and left this farm site. The grave reportedly was visited biannually by runners from Oklahoma until the site was inadvertently plowed by one of Griffith Breese's hired farmers.
The entire farm is being nominated because it represents the most intact pioneer farming homestead in this part of Allen County, and for its importance as a part of the Shawnee Reservation. Shawnee Township has become the most desirable suburban area in Allen County with high land values. Breesewood is surrounded by ranch homes on one or two acres, and two small malls and new condominiums are on nearby Shawnee Road. Stacks from Standard 011 and Vistron are visible to the northeast. In addition, the farm may have the potential for archaeological exploration or study. It is an important historic and architectural farm in Allen County and Northwest Ohio.
Local significance of the building:
Many legends relate the early history of this farm with the Shawnee Hog Creek Reservation. Giffith Breese, born in Wales in 1790, came north from Paddys Run, a Welsh community in Butler County, Ohio, but did not become a part of the community being established in Sugar Creek, Putnam County. Histories report Giffith Breese lived in the Shawnee Council House until the sale of Reservation lands in 1833. Seven Indian cabins were on the land, evidently part of a Shawnee village. Mr. Breese first purchased these 80 acres in Section 10 and added tracts in other sections until he owned 1100 acres. Family stories tell of an Indian princess being buried on the land shortly before the march West. The Indians were said to have gathered and left this farm site. The grave reportedly was visited biannually by runners from Oklahoma until the site was inadvertently plowed by one of Griffith Breese's hired farmers.
The entire farm is being nominated because it represents the most intact pioneer farming homestead in this part of Allen County, and for its importance as a part of the Shawnee Reservation. Shawnee Township has become the most desirable suburban area in Allen County with high land values. Breesewood is surrounded by ranch homes on one or two acres, and two small malls and new condominiums are on nearby Shawnee Road. Stacks from Standard 011 and Vistron are visible to the northeast. In addition, the farm may have the potential for archaeological exploration or study. It is an important historic and architectural farm in Allen County and Northwest Ohio.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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The first professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Red Stockings, was formed in Ohio in 1869.
About Allen County
Allen County Timeline
Allen County, OH has a rich and diverse history that spans over two centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware, before European settlers arrived in the late 1700s. The first permanent settlement in Allen County was established in 1815 along the Auglaize River, and the county itself was officially created in 1820.
The early economy in Allen County was primarily based on agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops like corn and wheat. However, the discovery of oil in the late 19th century brought about significant changes. Oil production became a major industry, leading to a boom in population and prosperity. Lima, the county seat, became known as the "Oil Center of the World" during this time.
In the early 20th century, Allen County experienced rapid industrialization. Manufacturing companies, including the Lima Locomotive Works, gained prominence and provided employment opportunities for many residents. The county's strategic location, with access to major transportation routes, further contributed to its industrial growth.
Over the years, Allen County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. Today, it is home to a variety of industries, including healthcare, retail, and education. The county also boasts cultural attractions such as the Allen County Museum and the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center. With its blend of history, industry, and community, Allen County remains a vibrant and thriving part of Ohio.
The early economy in Allen County was primarily based on agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops like corn and wheat. However, the discovery of oil in the late 19th century brought about significant changes. Oil production became a major industry, leading to a boom in population and prosperity. Lima, the county seat, became known as the "Oil Center of the World" during this time.
In the early 20th century, Allen County experienced rapid industrialization. Manufacturing companies, including the Lima Locomotive Works, gained prominence and provided employment opportunities for many residents. The county's strategic location, with access to major transportation routes, further contributed to its industrial growth.
Over the years, Allen County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. Today, it is home to a variety of industries, including healthcare, retail, and education. The county also boasts cultural attractions such as the Allen County Museum and the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center. With its blend of history, industry, and community, Allen County remains a vibrant and thriving part of Ohio.
Allen County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Allen County, Ohio.
- 1817 - Allen County is established by an act of the Ohio General Assembly.
- 1831 - Lima, the county seat of Allen County, is founded.
- 1848 - The Miami and Erie Canal reaches Lima, bringing increased trade and economic growth.
- 1861-1865 - Allen County residents serve in the Civil War, with several regiments being raised from the area.
- 1885 - The Ohio Electric Railway begins operating in Lima, providing transportation and promoting industrial development.
- 1892 - Lima Oil Field is discovered, leading to an oil boom in the area and attracting oil companies.
- 1908 - Lima's first automobile manufacturing company, the Clark Motor Car Company, is established.
- 1958 - The Lima Army Tank Plant is opened, becoming a major employer in the county.
- 1980s - Economic downturn affects the county, resulting in job losses and decline in manufacturing.
- 1996 - The Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center opens in Lima, enhancing the city's cultural and entertainment offerings.
- 2010 - Census reveals a population of over 100,000 residents in Allen County.